New Affordable Housing Development in Horizon West: The Disney-backed Project

Horizon West, a growing community in Orlando, is set to welcome significant changes with the construction of nearly 1,400 mixed-income housing units. This initiative, spearheaded by The Michaels Organization on land owned by Walt Disney World, has sparked discussions among residents about infrastructure, community dynamics, and housing affordability.

Overview of Horizon West

• Location: About 20 minutes from the Magic Kingdom.
• Size: Spanning over 20,000 acres, featuring five villages and a town center.
• Current Housing Development: The new project will dedicate over 1,000 units to affordable housing.

Why is This Development Needed?

Disney’s decision to move forward with this project stems from the growing critical need for affordable housing across Central Florida. As stated in a company release,

"The lack of affordable housing is affecting many people across our country, including those who live and work in Central Florida."

The demand for more accessible living has heightened as residents grapple with escalating living costs and a competitive housing market, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Community Response

Local reactions to the proposed development are mixed:

• Critics argue that the existing infrastructure cannot accommodate potentially thousands more residents, expressing concerns over traffic and local services.
• Supporters see it as a vital step in combating housing insecurity.

Population Boom in Horizon West

The housing crisis has impacted various sectors, particularly among hospitality and tourism workers, including Walt Disney World cast members who are crucial to the region’s economy. Notably, former cast members have highlighted issues regarding housing instability and living wages.

• Population Growth: The U.S. Census Bureau reported the population rose from 14,000 in 2010 to over 58,100 in 2020, and is now approximately 75,000.

Upcoming Infrastructure Enhancements

The influx of new residents necessitated improvements to the community’s infrastructure:

• Enhanced public transport options.
• Expanded school facilities and educational programs.

Housing and Economic Outlook

Housing Market Insights

The housing units in Horizon West will cater to a diverse group of residents, including:

• Educators
• Firefighters
• Hospitality workers

This development isn’t just about building; it’s about offering sustainable living opportunities that fit within the community’s character.

Pricing Breakdown

• Apartments: Estimated around $2,500 monthly.
• Single-family homes: Prices can soar into the multimillion-dollar range.

As noted by real estate agent Nicole Mickle:

"I think the homes are still affordable for what Horizon West offers. You can’t find this in other areas of Orlando at the moment."

Community Lifestyle and Culture

Walking through Horizon West, it’s clear it’s a community that thrives on its family-oriented atmosphere.

Key Features:

• Public Spaces: Families enjoy numerous parks and green spaces.
• Walkability: Many residents use scooters or bicycles for daily activities, minimizing reliance on cars.

Distinct Villages

Each village in Horizon West offers its unique vibe, enhancing the appeal of this master-planned community:

• Hamlin: The downtown area, popular for nightlife.
• Bridgewater: Family-oriented spaces.
• Village I: A hub for Disney employees due to its proximity to the theme park.

Future Considerations

While there is excitement about the new housing opportunities, concerns remain regarding Horizon West’s growth trajectory. As Orange County anticipates a population surge of 500,000 by 2050, the call for sustainable and manageable development is more pressing than ever.

Community Outreach and Engagement

Disney has actively sought community feedback on the project, striving to ensure it aligns with the desires of current residents. According to Heather Parker, a local community manager:

"Disney has done a great job of holding community meetings. Listening helps ensure everybody’s on the same page."

Conclusion

The new affordable housing initiative in Horizon West represents both a unique opportunity and a community challenge. Balancing the need for growth with the preservation of the community’s integrity will be essential in shaping the future of this vibrant Orlando neighborhood. As the project unfolds, residents remain engaged in dialogue to make their voices heard and to foster a prosperous living environment for all.