Elon Musk’s Boring Company Universal tunnel project has taken a key step forward in Orlando, where the Shingle Creek Transit and Utility Community Development District has voted to begin contract talks with the tunnelling firm.
The Boring Company Universal tunnel project would create an underground transit link between Universal Orlando Resort’s existing parks, CityWalk and the new Epic Universe development, covering roughly four to five miles. Board members ranked three proposals and scored the Boring Company highest against their brief for a premium, point‑to‑point system that can cut road congestion around International Drive.
Under the Boring Company Universal tunnel project, passengers would travel in small electric vehicles through twin tunnels, similar in concept to the Vegas Loop beneath Las Vegas. Representatives from rival consortium Sunshine Connection Partners noted that construction speed weighed heavily in the board’s decision, with the Boring Company promoting rapid delivery compared with traditional tunnelling methods.
Early discussions have focused on connecting Epic Universe and nearby hotels in phase one, before extending service to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk in later phases.
The district’s resolution is an intent to designate rather than a final construction green light. Negotiations will now address technical feasibility, financing, permitting and long‑term operations; if talks stall, the board retains the option to reopen the process. Industry observers also point to scrutiny of the company’s Vegas Loop project, where regulators in Nevada have raised safety and environmental questions, as a factor that may shape how the Boring Company Universal tunnel project progresses in Florida.
Image: Universal Studios
