Disney has this evening shared that groundbreaking on its Affordable and Attainable Housing development is targeted for next year, with the first units anticipated to be completed in 2026.
Disney has also said that is expanding the project to now include approximately 1,400 total units – over 100 higher than initially announced.
The news comes at a critical time for Disney, as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis repeatedly claims that affordable housing is a priority of his new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, seemingly ignoring the fact that Disney is already heavily committed to such a project.
As previously announced, The Michaels Organization, a nationally recognized developer, will build and operate the property, which would be just a few miles away from the Magic Kingdom, near schools and shopping, including Flamingo Crossings Town Center, which continues to open more great retail and dining spots. The development, which is planned to be privately financed, will be limited to applicants within a certain income range.
Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle and his team met earlier this week with leaders from The Michaels Organization in Florida, and discussed how Disney hopes this development inspires others in the community and across the country to support this important issue in innovative ways.
Disney also points out that it recently joined Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, an organization that cast members support year-round through our Disney VoluntEARS program, for the grand opening of its newly renovated youth center, which was built with the help of a $100,000 Disney grant. And late last year, Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort announced significant donations to local community food banks to support families in need, totaling more than $300,000.
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