Disney World's Attainable Housing Community Gets Major Permit Approval

The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has approved the permit application for Disney’s attainable housing initiative.

©Disney

The approved permit is for the Hartzog Road Attainable Housing Community, which Disney says is to “address the critical need for affordable housing.” The new permit approval signals an important step in the community’s development.

The newly approved permit is Permit 48-114759-P, according to the sfwmd.gov. This project is called the Hartzog Road Attainable Housing Community, and this particular permit is for stormwater and drainage plans for the site.

©SFWMD

The total permit acres were roughly 103.38 acres, and the permit also details that this community will include a 1,369-unit multifamily development and supporting infrastructure. This project brings together Disney and The Michaels Organization, with Disney dedicating nearly 80 acres of land for the development. Disney has shared that the project is for “cost-burdened renters can focus on their personal growth and prosperity by gaining access to affordable housing.”

©Disney

Nearly 1,000 of the developed units will be dedicated to affordable housing. It will be open to qualifying applicants based on their income range. Information on how to apply for those who qualify will be shared by The Michaels Organization when it becomes available. Disney has shared that the development is not government-funded and Disney will not benefit financially from this development.

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The company has shared that the “community will fit seamlessly with neighboring villages in Horizon West,” which is near Disney’s Flamingos Crossing community, which houses many Disney College Program and International Program participants. The new development will have 3 entrances as well as paths for pedestrians and bikers. Currently, the permit states that a portion of the site is an existing rapid infiltration basin and a portion is a wooded area.

©Disney

The project was originally announced in 2023 with the goal of beginning work in 2025. The permit that was approved won’t expire until January 23rd, 2031. We’re eager to follow these developments as they come. Be sure to keep following AllEars for more Disney news, updates, and more.