As the horizon of affordable housing in Orange County continues to be reshaped, Disney's project within Horizon West is approaching a decisive moment. The plans, subject to substantial scrutiny by residents, are poised to undergo a final vote by the Orange County commissioners. Underpinning the initiative is a 114-acre parcel donated by Disney, designed to ease the region's housing crunch with 1,369 units, revised down from 1,410 in response to community concerns. According to WFTV, the project has integrated a traffic light and additional crosswalks at Avalon Road to improve traffic flow in the area.
The development has not been without its critics. Resistance has especially been vocal among residents of Village H, the area closest to the proposed site. Project modifications have been implemented to assuage local opposition, aiming to reduce the environmental impact and strategically address infrastructural inadequacies. Julie Kendig-Schrader of Greenberg Traurig, representing Disney at the Planning and Zoning Commission, underscored that the project aims "to help the teachers, the police officer, grocery-store employees, the hospitality employees and folks who are just starting out in their career," as reported by the Orange Observer.
Resident Sarah Hibbs leads the opposition, gathering support through a petition highlighting the strain the project could put on local ecosystems and infrastructure. The petition suggests alternative sites where suitable infrastructure exists, like the Disney College Program housing at Flamingo Crossings. The community also calls for a halt on further construction in Horizon West until infrastructure is entirely in place, among other conditions.
Despite controversies, the project has made progress. Buildings have been consolidated to create more open space, and a community park is planned along Avalon Road. At a recent Planning & Zoning meeting, project leaders emphasized the need for affordable housing for Orange County's workforce.
The Michaels Organization and Disney held virtual meetings after P&Z approval to provide updates and gather more feedback, showing their commitment to community engagement. Despite these efforts, resident opposition continues, with Disney reaffirming its commitment to addressing housing in Orange County. County officials will soon decide on the project.
