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ORLANDO, Fla. (February 10, 2026) – Today, the City of Orlando began Phase 1 of the Magnolia Avenue two-way conversion, marking one of the first major implementation steps of the DTO Action Plan. The project focuses on Magnolia Avenue from South Street north to Livingston Street and will transform the corridor from one-way travel into a two-way street, improving connectivity, accessibility, and the overall downtown experience.
As a parallel corridor to Orange Avenue, Magnolia Avenue will serve as an important north–south alternative route through downtown’s historic business district. The improvements are designed to make downtown easier to navigate, support safer travel for all users, and create a more inviting environment for residents, employees, and visitors.
“This project reflects our commitment to building a modern, people-centered downtown,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “The city is revamping its streets, sidewalks, bike lanes, and public transportation systems to create a modern transit network that improves opportunities for residents and businesses, enhancing the quality of life in downtown Orlando.”
Advancing the DTO Action Plan
The Magnolia Avenue improvements are rooted in the DTO Action Plan, a long-term roadmap led by the Orlando Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) that focuses on enhancing streets, civic spaces, mobility options, and neighborhoods to strengthen downtown Orlando as both a center of civic life and a vibrant regional destination.
Converting select corridors to two-way travel is a foundational strategy of the DTO Action Plan and directly advances one of its core goals: improving mobility while creating safer, more connected streets.
“Projects like the Magnolia Avenue improvements bring the DTO Action Plan to life,” said David Barilla, Executive Director of the Downtown Development Board and Community Redevelopment Agency. “By reimagining how our streets function, we’re improving how people move through downtown while creating an environment that supports local businesses, encourages investment, and enhances the overall downtown experience.”
By rethinking streets, sidewalks, and transit, the city and Orlando CRA are making it easier to move through downtown - whether you walk, bike, ride, or drive - while fostering a more welcoming, accessible environment where neighborhoods and businesses can thrive.
Project Overview
Phase 1 – Interim Improvements (South Street to Livingston Street) includes:
- Converting Magnolia Avenue from one-way to two-way traffic
- Eliminating most dedicated bus lanes and integrating LYMMO operations into general traffic flow
- Adding on-street parking
- Preparing the corridor for future streetscape and mobility enhancements
Construction is expected to last approximately six months and will be completed block by block.
Construction Impacts
To ensure nearby residents, businesses, and visitors are informed and prepared, the city is proactively sharing what to expect during construction:
- Full roadway closures, curb to curb, will occur by block; some intersections may be temporarily closed
- Sidewalks will remain open, with occasional short detours at intersections
- Traffic delays are expected; travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and use alternate routes
- Delivery vehicles will use available on-street parking for loading and unloading
- Temporary driveway access restrictions may occur; advance notice and alternative parking options will be provided
- Trash and recycling service will continue as scheduled
- Work hours are generally Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–5 p.m., with occasional night or weekend work
- Mail delivery, emergency access, and essential services will not be interrupted
- Construction schedules may be affected by unforeseen conditions such as weather
Residents, business owners, and visitors are encouraged to stay informed, view construction updates, and find maps, timelines, and resources at orlando.gov/downtownconstruction.
If you own or work for a downtown business that uses freight loading zones, the City of Orlando would like your feedback.
Media wanting photos of the groundbreaking and renderings of the project, can access the following link: Magnolia Avenue Phase 1 Groundbreaking Event Renderings and Photos.
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