Drivers, Executives, and Tourists Share Views on Epic Universe's Impact
On Thursday, it was exactly seven days since the gates of Epic Universe opened, welcoming countless visitors to Florida's latest attraction over this past week.
Feedback is flooding in from visitors, community business owners, and even rideshare drivers who are benefiting from the newly opened park.
Comcast, which owns both NBCUniversal and Universal Orlando Resorts, stated that their $11 billion investment is expected to yield approximately $2 billion for the state of Florida within just one year.
The Epic Universe theme park, set to debut in Central Florida after over two and a half decades without new additions, is projected by Comcast to generate approximately 17,500 employment opportunities nationwide during its inaugural year of operations.
Chris Jaskiewicz, who serves as both the CEO and president of Icon Park, mentioned that it's still early to provide concrete figures regarding the park's influence; however, he feels confident that Epic Universe is driving an increase in attendance at Icon Park attractions such as the Orlando Eye.
This has become the most advanced park in our sector," stated Jaskiewicz. "It's highly beneficial for us." He continued, "While I cannot provide specific figures, I am aware that we're experiencing higher footfall due to an uptick in visitors.
On Thursday, Channel 9 interviewed visitors exploring Epic Universe from all over the United States and abroad, such as Marissa Medlock, who scheduled her celebration of their 10-year wedding anniversary based on the park’s launch.
"We discussed whether we should arrive sooner to escape the heat and all that, but we decided to come and catch Epic," stated Medlock.
He’s traveling to Orlando with his wife and their three boys from Phoenix, Arizona.
While on their seven-day journey, the family will also make stops at Disneyland, Cocoa Beach, and various nearby enterprises.
Channel 9 interviewed the Medlock family as they grabbed lunch at the But First. Coffee Shop in Orlando.
Medlock stated, “We were keen on supporting a charming nearby store.”
In addition, on Thursday, Channel 9 received input from ride-sharing drivers who mentioned they had already transported several passengers to the newly opened park.
Kirby Rodriguez mentioned that just a week after Epic Universe opened, it has turned into a frequent stop for his Lyft riders.
Parking at Epic may range from $32 to $50, and Rodriguez mentioned that individuals are bypassing the parking queue by using ride-sharing applications instead.
It's bringing in more business," Rodriguez stated. "People prefer not to pay for parking. Therefore, if they rent a vehicle, they keep their car at the resort and use Uber instead.
Although some have experienced an uptick in business, not every driver was keen on heading to Epic Universe. Some mentioned their preference for steering clear of crowded tourist spots altogether.
That’s often not something we're comfortable accepting, such trips," explained Uber driver Carlos Rigo, "Our primary worry is usually the heavy traffic in this region.
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