ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Downtown Orlando is getting a major boost with the launch of Ride DTO, a new multimodal transit service brought to life by the City of Orlando’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). Beginning Monday, October 7, 2024, this eco-friendly option will allow residents, workers, and visitors to travel conveniently throughout downtown for just $1 per ride, while promoting local businesses and reducing traffic congestion.

Ride DTO, operated by Circuit Transit, Inc., features a fleet of all-electric vehicles, offering a sustainable and efficient way to navigate Orlando’s urban core. Running daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., the service is designed to improve access to downtown’s vibrant restaurants, shops, and attractions while contributing to the city’s green initiatives.

“Ride DTO makes it easier than ever to experience everything downtown has to offer,” said a CRA spokesperson. “This initiative not only supports local businesses by bringing more people downtown, but also aligns with our goals of reducing the city’s carbon footprint and enhancing the overall downtown experience.”

In addition to the $1 daily rides, new users can enjoy three free trips with the promotional code RIDEDTO, making it easier for everyone to try out the service. The service’s first-mile, last-mile connections also make it ideal for commuters using other transportation modes like SunRail or LYMMO.

WHEN:

• Launch: Monday, October 7, 2024
• Daily service: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

WHERE:

• Downtown Orlando

Download the app on Apple or Android to access Ride DTO and start exploring downtown Orlando.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings provided a vital update ahead of Hurricane Helene’s impending landfall in Florida’s Big Bend, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance as the storm approaches Central Florida.

Key Highlights:

• Tropical Storm Warnings and Tornado Watch: Central Florida remains under Tropical Storm Warnings, with Orange County under a Tornado Watch until 8 p.m. Mayor Demings urged residents to stay alert as “conditions will deteriorate rapidly in the coming hours.”
• Severe Weather Forecast: Sustained winds of 25-35 mph with gusts reaching 45-55 mph are expected. Rainfall could range from 1-2 inches, with localized areas receiving more.
• Garbage Collection Resumes: Garbage, yard waste, and recycling collection will resume on Friday, September 27, 2024. Those with missed service on Thursday will have a makeup day on Saturday, September 28, 2024. “We are committed to restoring services as quickly as possible,” Demings stated.
• Power Outages: Several outages have already been reported across the county. Residents are advised to report outages directly to their service providers, including OUC, Duke Energy, and Winter Park Utility.
• Shelter Status: Over 80 residents are currently housed in shelters, which are scheduled to close tomorrow morning. “We’re here to ensure everyone’s safety through the night,” Mayor Demings assured.
• Reopenings on Friday: Orange County Government, schools, courts, and other services will resume normal operations on Friday, September 27, 2024, as weather conditions improve. “Our goal is to return to normalcy as swiftly as possible,” Demings emphasized.
• Neighboring Assistance: Orange County Utilities and Fire Rescue teams are preparing to assist neighboring regions, with deployments planned for Tallahassee and Ocala. “We stand ready to help our fellow Floridians in their time of need,” Demings affirmed.

Impact and Precautions:

Residents are urged to stay indoors during peak storm hours and monitor local news for updates. The Orange County team is on high alert, ensuring that all essential services are restored and that community members are safe.

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J Willie David, III contributed to this report.
news@FloridaNationalNews.com

SANFORD, Fla. (FNN News) – Don’t miss the final Sunset at the Zoo of 2024 at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens on Friday, September 27! This special edition, presented by Verizon, will honor Hispanic heritage and culture with exciting activities for the whole family.

Enjoy an evening of music, live entertainment, crafts, and educational experiences like keeper chats and themed storytime. Food trucks and local vendors will also be on-site, with concessions available at Graze.

Tickets are just $6 if purchased in advance, or grab a family 4-pack for $44, which includes 4 tickets, 4 hot dogs, and 4 drinks.

When: September 27, 2024, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford, FL

For tickets, click here.