ORLANDO, Fla. – A proposal to bring 2,500 new apartments to Orlando’s Rosemont area is moving forward after the Orlando Municipal Planning Board unanimously approved phase two of the RoseArts District project.
The development, which has been in the works since 2019, would transform land near Lake Orlando into a mixed-use district featuring apartment-style housing, updated landscaping, walking and biking trails, and road improvements.
Planning discussions for the RoseArts District began before the COVID-19 pandemic, with momentum continuing through multiple phases. The recent approval marks the next step in the long-term project, but construction has not yet begun.
Despite the board’s approval, several longtime residents voiced concerns during public comment, citing potential flooding, increased traffic and impacts to wildlife in the area.
“This is a serious flood plain. I’ve lived here 30 years, and it has flooded with hurricanes more than once,” one resident said.
Another resident warned about traffic congestion: “RoseArts will not tolerate the amount of traffic that’s going to happen. The traffic backs up now.”
Others urged board members to reconsider.
“It’s a disaster. We dread it coming in, and I certainly hope you take these remarks into consideration,” a speaker said.
Renderings posted near the site show landscaped green space surrounding Lake Orlando, new apartment buildings and pedestrian-friendly features, including bike and walking trails. Additional plans highlight roadway upgrades and traffic improvements.
According to project representatives, no construction has occurred and no trees have been removed in connection with the project.
“No construction has occurred. No trees have been taken down. No limpkin have been killed related to this project,” a representative said.
Traffic mitigation is part of the proposal, with improvements planned for key intersections including Lake Breeze Drive and John Young Parkway, Rosemont and Orange Blossom Trail, and adjustments to signal timing along Orange Blossom Trail. Plans also call for a roundabout at RoseArts Boulevard and Lake Breeze Drive.
In response to flooding concerns, the project group said it has made improvements to the existing stormwater systems on the former golf course property.
The approval represents phase two of the project. Phase three would require additional review before construction can begin. News 6 will continue to follow developments as the proposal advances.