Disney’s planned attainable housing community in Central Florida has cleared a major regulatory hurdle with the approval of a key environmental permit. 
The South Florida Water Management District granted an Individual Environmental Resource Permit on January 23, 2026, authorizing stormwater management and drainage work for the development along Hartzog Road in southwest Orange County.
The permit represents a critical step toward construction and is valid through January 23, 2031. The approved plans outline a residential community of approximately 1,369 housing units, along with supporting infrastructure such as utilities, internal roadways, and stormwater systems.
Environmental Resource Permits are required before land clearing or vertical construction can begin, making this approval one of the most significant milestones for the project to date.
Disney first announced the attainable housing initiative in 2022, committing about 80 acres of company-owned land to help address Central Florida’s housing affordability challenges.
Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle said during the original announcement:
“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.”
The development is intended to serve residents within targeted income ranges and is expected to include opportunities for eligible Walt Disney World Cast Members, though Disney itself will not own or operate the housing.
The project will be developed by The Michaels Organization, which will be responsible for constructing, owning, and managing the community.
While no specific construction start date has been announced, the permit approval signals that the project is moving closer to breaking ground as Disney and its development partner continue navigating the remaining planning and local approval processes.
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