Walt Disney World has submitted a new permit application to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) for the Hartzog Road Attainable Housing Community. The filing includes latest plans for the development, which will be built on land Disney previously committed to this project.
Project Overview
- Location: Southwest Orange County, west of State Road 429 and a short distance from Flamingo Crossings Town Center.
- Size: Approximately 80 acres of land contributed by Disney.
- Scope: Around 1,400 housing units are planned.
- Developer: The Michaels Organization will build, own, and operate the community.
The newly filed basin map outlines drainage, wetlands, and utility basins, showing progress in the planning phase and coordination with environmental and infrastructure requirements.
Background
In November 2022, Disney announced its partnership with The Michaels Organization, a nationally recognized developer with experience in creating and managing attainable housing communities. With over 425 communities across more than 35 states, The Michaels Organization is the largest privately held owner of affordable housing in the country.
The development will be privately financed and limited to applicants within certain income ranges, including Disney cast members. It aligns with Orange County’s Housing for All action plan, an initiative led by Mayor Jerry Demings to address housing affordability in the region.
Community Impact
The project is expected to:
- Create new construction jobs and long-term operational roles.
- Provide affordable housing options to qualifying applicants in Central Florida.
- Support Disney cast members and the broader community with expanded housing opportunities.
Disney has emphasized that this effort is part of its ongoing commitment to invest in the Central Florida community.
“For more than 50 years, Walt Disney World has cared for and invested in our community, and we’re committed to being a part of this solution which will bring more attainable housing to Central Florida,” said Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World Resort, when the project was first announced.
The permit application is another milestone as the development advances through design and regulatory review. While no official construction timeline has been announced, Disney has previously mentioned a 2026 opening for the first units.
