Credit: Joe Schlabotnik, FlickrBig things are on the way for Walt Disney World. Well, maybe.
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The Walt Disney World Resort is currently undergoing perhaps its biggest transformation yet, with all four theme parks facing some of their most notable expansions, closures, and changes they’ve ever seen. From Magic Kingdom to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, all kinds of projects are taking place or are about to begin, though one in particular has remained quite mysterious.
After over three years, Disney is now once again moving ahead with its housing project.
In conjunction with the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD), Walt Disney World has filed a submission with the South Florida Water Management District for new construction for Disney’s previously announced affordable housing expansion.
Disney first announced the project in 2022, revealing the company planned to donate 80 acres of land for a new housing development on the west side of Walt Disney World Resort property. As the year continued, Disney shared more details on the project. In June 2023, Disney made more official filings, though the company faced pushback from local residents.
News on the project has been inconsistent. More details have been released each year, but Disney always seemed a few steps away from finalizing its vision. In 2024, Disney released new concept art for the housing project. The project barely passed a vote that same year, moving on from the Orange County Planning and Zoning Commission by a margin of one.
Groundbreaking on the project was initially slated for late 2024. However, the year came and went, with no ground actually moving.
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“To address the critical need for affordable housing, Walt Disney World is dedicating nearly 80 acres of land for a new housing community in Central Florida,” states Disney on the official website for the project. “In collaboration with a renowned developer, The Michaels Organization, we envision a place where cost-burdened renters can focus on their personal growth and prosperity by gaining access to affordable housing. By alleviating the weight of escalating housing costs, we hope to give residents the relief they need to prioritize resources necessary to thrive, like food, medication, car payments, childcare and more.”
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