From the Orange County Newsroom
- Preserve Established Neighborhoods
- Protect Natural Places and Rural Spaces
- Promote Walkability
- Prioritize Affordable Housing
- Practice Smart, Sustainable and Responsible Growth
Stuck in the 1950s?
Since the 1950s, Orange County has managed development based on how land is used. This outdated practice kept things like homes, shops, offices, and restaurants separate from each other. It’s why we have such sprawling communities, and why it feels like you can’t do anything without a car! Hello, traffic jams.
For Vision 2050 to be successful, the County must change its antiquated zoning rules to something a little more modern. These new development rules are called Orange Code. Orange Code is focusing more on the look, shape and architecture of buildings instead of how the buildings are used. This will create more walkable destinations where people can live, work, play and learn. This of Vision 2050 as the end destination and Orange Code as the road map to get us there.
What about my neighborhood?
A key element of Vision 2050 is to direct growth to the right places. That means preserving established suburban neighborhoods, rural places and natural spaces. It also means steering most new development to the urban sector, which is where 44% of the future population growth in Orange County is expected to go. These “targeted sectors” include high population centers in unincorporated Orange County, such as areas around the I-Drive tourism corridor, near UCF, along Semoran Boulevard and near downtown Orlando.
What about other areas?
The Vision 2050 development framework includes a Sector Map that identifies six (6) distinct areas defined by their existing characteristics and development potential. These sectors address new development, where development should be limited, and areas that should be protected or preserved. A guiding principle in the Vision 2050 plan is to protect and strengthen existing neighborhoods while creating healthy and sustainable new communities.
When will this be voted on?
Vision 2050 is tentatively scheduled to go before the Board of County Commissioners for final adoption consideration in the spring of 2025.
Learn more by visiting Vision 2050 – Orange County’s Comprehensive Plan.
