As discussions around the Orlando Surf Park again in west Orange County, some Horizon West residents say traffic improvements along Avalon Road should come before more development.
The nearly 44-acre project, near Avalon Road and Schofield Road, would bring a surf lagoon, restaurants and entertainment options to the growing community. Plans also include a communications center.
While some residents welcome the potential attraction, others worry the additional development could worsen traffic along an already congested parts of the two-lane stretches of Avalon Road.
“Horrendous,” Horizon West resident Kevin Horine said when asked to describe current traffic conditions. “There are just too many people here. It’s just a two-lane road and too many people here. It’s very dangerous.”
Horine said traffic congestion is not the only concern. He pointed to standing water on the roadway, the risk of hydroplaning and an increasing number of bicyclists sharing the road with drivers.
“People don’t pay attention,” Horine said. “They like to jump over the line.”
Despite those concerns, some neighbors see potential benefits in bringing a surf park to the area.
“I think it is a great idea for the community and for the kids,” one resident said.
Horine acknowledged the attraction could provide a new recreational opportunity.
“At least we would have fun at the surf park,” he said.
But for Horne and other residents, the biggest concern is whether the area’s infrastructure can support continued growth.
“They need to get the infrastructure in first, which they don’t seem to do,” Horine said. “They seem to do that backwards. They bring everyone in and then try to fix roads. We have been screaming at them for five years since they started all this.”
Orange County denied the proposed project last year, citing environmental, technical and transportation concerns.
Developers are now revising their plans and meeting with county staff as discussions about the project move forward.
Residents say they have already seen some progress along Avalon Road.
After years of requests, a traffic signal was installed this year at the intersection of Avalon and Schofield roads. Neighbors say the signal has helped, but they believe additional improvements are needed to address congestion and safety concerns.
Road improvements are also being discussed along Avalon Road. However, those projects are focused on areas farther north along the road or at another intersection.
For residents concerned about the pace of development, the priority is clear: Improve the roads before adding another major attraction.
“They need to fix the roads before they put the surf park in,” Horine said.
As developers continue working with Orange County staff, residents say they want transportation concerns addressed before the project moves forward.