Walt Disney World has chosen a developer and location for new affordable housing project

As part of an initiative to create affordable housing in the Orlando area, Walt Disney World has chosen a location and a developer for their upcoming 1,300-unit project.

The 80-acre development will be located just west of State Road 429, not far from Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom park, within easy access to schools, Flamingo Crossings Town Center, and other shopping.

The Michaels Organization has been chosen as the property’s builder, owner, and operator, and negotiations toward a definitive agreement are taking place.

Housing applicants – including Disney cast members – must meet a certain income range to be considered.

In a quote shared by Rena Langley in the Disney Parks Blog, Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World Resort stated, “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. We will continue to find ways to use our resources to make a difference in the community we call home, and we’re excited to take this step with a nationally recognized developer.”

Michaels CEO John J. O’Donnell added, “We are excited to work with an iconic brand like Disney to deliver attainable housing for the Central Florida community. 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.”

Disney’s affordable housing initiative builds on the existing Orange County’s Housing for All plan launched in December 2019 under the leadership of Mayor Jerry Demings.