Penny sales tax increase: County leaders to discuss list of possible transportation projects

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Orange County mayor wants to add a penny sales tax next year to pay for a long list of transportation projects.

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The final work session will happen Tuesday. It will be one of the last steps before commissioners decide whether to put this on the ballot.

On Monday, Orlando city leaders passed a resolution supporting the tax hike.

Mayor Demings hopes Orange County leaders do the same.

READ: Penny sales tax increase: See the Orange County mayor’s list of possible transportation projects

During the work session, Demings is expected to detail the findings of his 1,000-page transportation initiative report.

The penny sales tax increase the mayor is proposing would hike to improve 195 miles of intersections and complete street safety improvements, including 25 miles for safety for pedestrians and bicyclists, technology and traffic signal upgrades and 154 miles or roadway improvements, including resurfacing every 12 to 15 years.

The tax hike would also pay for the long-promised west Orange County SunRail line, more trains, as well as night, weekend and holiday service.

READ: Orange County commissioners to discuss rent control

Lynx riders would also benefit from more buses and routes.

Buses would arrive faster and more often, and service could expand to up to 21 hours a day.

READ: Should Orange County raise the sales tax? Here’s how you can weigh in

After Tuesday, the last staff meeting will be held on April 26. That’s when the board of county commissioners will make the decision on whether to place the sales tax referendum on the Nov. 8 ballot.

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