ORLANDO, Fla. — Orange County leaders are taking significant steps in their plan to construct a pedestrian bridge on International Drive in Orlando.

The final public meeting for this bridge project took place on Wednesday night.

The proposed location for the pedestrian bridge is at the intersection of International Drive and Sand Lake Road.

Engineers studying this area have found that approximately 36,000 cars pass through there each day, and on a typical weekend night, about 74 people cross the street every hour.

This information came as a surprise to Karisse Jackman, a visitor from Trinidad and Tobago, who wanted to explore the area's attractions on foot.

She shared her concerns about the daunting experience of crossing the street and witnessing others do the same.

"The amount of traffic and the time it takes to cross the street make it difficult. Having a pedestrian bridge would be much safer and easier for us," said Jackman.

Orange County is diligently working on this project and held a community meeting to present the design that project leaders believe is the most promising.

Dubbed "The Drone" due to its shape, the bridge will feature elevated walkways leading to all four corners of the intersection.

Pedestrians will have the choice to use either 40 stairs or an elevator for accessibility.

The estimated cost of the project is $30 million, with $20 million potentially funded by the CRA.

Jaz Arsenault, who uses a walker, has had negative experiences at this intersection and attended the meeting with her questions.

"I wonder who will be responsible for the maintenance of this walk bridge," said Arsenault.

Project leaders assured attendees that the details, including maintenance responsibilities, are still being worked out and will be negotiated with the I-drive district.

They are currently focused on finalizing the design, which aims not only to make pedestrians safer by eliminating street-level crossings but also to create an iconic structure that Orlando can be proud of.

Arsenault expressed her contentment that some action is being taken to address the issue.

"I'm excited that they are making efforts to improve the situation," said Arsenault.

Although there is no set date to begin construction, Jackman emphasized that she would be more inclined to visit again if a safer option to navigate the area is available.

"Definitely, and we could also recommend it to friends back home," said Jackman.

The project manager for the pedestrian bridge shared that the next step is to present their plans to the county commissioners during a work session on September 12, where they will delve into more details and seek feedback from local leaders.