Disney World Announces Developer For Affordable Housing Project

ORLANDO (FLV) – Walt Disney World has selected a developer to build a new affordable housing development on 80 acres of land, which is expected to include more than 1,300 units.

The company says the land, which was donated by the company, is located west of State Road 429, just a few miles away from the Magic Kingdom, near schools and shopping, including Flamingo Crossings Town Center.

“It’s a project that has been near and dear to our hearts, as we know how important it is to find solutions to this important challenge facing communities all around the country, including here in Central Florida,” said Rena Langley, Senior Vice President of Walt Disney World Communications and Public Affairs.

The Michaels Organization, a prominent and visionary developer, will build, own and operate the property.

“After a thorough search, we chose The Michaels Organization for its long-standing track record in building and managing attainable housing communities. Negotiations between Walt Disney World and The Michaels Organization on a definitive agreement for the initiative are underway,” Langley said.

The development is expected to be privately financed and limited to applicants within a certain income range.

“Our goal is to create a repeatable model that we hope will inspire other companies and municipalities to create high quality, attainable housing in their own communities,” said Michaels Organization CEO John J. O’Donnell.

The company says the initiative will help offer a viable solution to one of the nation’s greatest challenges and will support and build upon Orange County’s Housing for All action plan to address housing affordability for local residents, brought about by Mayor Jerry Demings.

Further details, such as a timeline for construction, have yet to be released.