In December 2019, the City of Orlando (City) and the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) entered into an Open Space Agreement to establish details and funding obligations of upcoming projects in plazas and open spaces within the CRA boundary. The City then entered into a contract with AECOM Technical Services, Inc. in 2023 to design a public space beneath the elevated bridge beams of Interstate 4 (I-4), between W Church Street (south boundary) and W Washington Street (north boundary). Initially referred to as the “Bridge District” then “Under-i”, the vision and plans for the project have developed into The Canopy. This fifth amendment to the Open Space Agreement is necessary because the City and the CRA desire for additional items to be included in the overall design of The Canopy.

AECOM has provided a proposal for $269,298 for the design of restrooms and raised platforms. Incorporating public restrooms into the project will ensure visitors to this major destination have access to these essential facilities, and the raised platforms will add special vantage points for visitors to enjoy the space.  Additionally, AECOM has obtained a subcontractor, UAP, which has submitted a proposal for $223,333 to design large artistic trees that will be distributed throughout the project. The trees will provide an immersive art element to the overall design, which is an integral component to placemaking and transforming the space into The Canopy. The total cost of the additional design services will not exceed $492,631.00.

Fiscal Impact Statement Attached

Approving Amendment Five to the Amended and Restated Open Space Agreement with the CRA, and authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the Agreement. subject to review and approval by the City Attorney’s Office.