Recent reports have fueled speculation that Universal Orlando Resort may be exploring a collaboration with Elon Musk’s The Boring Company on a tunnel‑based transportation system in the Central Florida tourism corridor.
The entrance to Super Nintendo World at Night – Photo Credit: NBC Universal
While the idea remains unconfirmed, local business leaders and transportation analysts say the concept could mark a significant shift in how guests move between Universal’s expanding theme parks and surrounding attractions.
What’s Been Reported So Far?
According to the Orlando Business Journal, discussions are reportedly underway between Universal Orlando and The Boring Company, with the goal of building a “Vegas Loop”-style underground transit route beneath International Drive. The proposed corridor would reportedly run from Universal’s existing parks to its forthcoming Epic Universe campus, and potentially include stops at the Orange County Convention Center and a Brightline train station.
The Entrance to Epic Universe at Universal Orlando – Photo Credit: NBC Universal
These conversations are said to be in early stages. No construction permits or formal filings have been found by county officials. A spokesperson for Orange County confirmed that no official proposals have been submitted to date.
Why the Vision Appeals
1. Solving a logistical hurdle.
Universal’s two main campuses sit several miles apart. Visitors traveling between Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure and the new Epic Universe often must drive or shuttle across public roads—unlike Disney’s internal transit network.
The entrance to Universal Studios in Orlando Florida – Photo Credit: Marvin Montanaro
Experts believe an underground loop could replicate Disney’s monorail-style convenience, keeping guests on Universal property while improving the overall experience.
2. Traffic concerns.
International Drive ranks among the most congested tourist zones in Orlando. Local business voices argue that an underground alternative would not only streamline guest movement but could also reduce car and bus traffic.
Technical and Operational Hurdles
Despite its appeal, several experts have flagged serious feasibility challenges, according to the Orlando Business Journal.
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Tunneling in waterlogged terrain: Florida’s high water table and porous geology complicate underground construction, especially in hurricane-prone regions.
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Safety, cost, and capacity concerns: The Vegas Loop, while innovative, has drawn critique for its limited vehicle throughput and dependence on human drivers. The Boring Company has also faced regulatory scrutiny over construction practices.
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Unresolved financial and regulatory frameworks: No details on project financing, ownership structure, or government approvals have been revealed.
Expert Commentary
Jim Seay, president and CEO of Premier Rides, commented on the difficulty and possible innovations of such an endeavor.
Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Studios Orlando – YouTube, Universal Orlando Resort
“Look around Orlando, it’s called the ‘Land of Lakes’ for a reason,” he said. “But, from a technical standpoint, I do believe they can solve that. I just came back from China where they have done amazing technological feats in the Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shenzhen area, where they have built a combination of tunnels above water bridges spanning 30-plus miles to connect all these cities together.”
The Chinese high-speed train referenced opened in 2018 after five years of construction.
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Lily Elefteriadou, an expert in transportation engineering and traffic operations, as well as director of the University Florida Transportation Institute, also noted the need for stream-lined transportation in the Orlando area. Although she would not comment on this particular plan, she did note other difficult projects that are materializing.
“We visited the construction site in Venice, where they’re connecting the airport to the railway station,” she said. “That’s a multiyear effort — and they have similar issues with the water table and it’s a very complex project.
The Bottom Line
At present, all confirmed evidence points to preliminary talks rather than active planning or approval. Universal Orlando, The Boring Company, and Orange County have not released any statements indicating a formal agreement, permitting application, or construction timeline.
The flaming windmill at Dark Universe in Universal’s Epic Universe – Photo Credit: Marvin Montanaro
However, the conversation reflects a growing interest in innovative transit solutions across global tourism hubs. If this tunnel concept moves forward, it could transform how visitors experience Universal Orlando—and potentially shift expectations for theme park connectivity overall.
Would you like to see a Universal / Elon partnership happen? Let us know in the comments below!
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