EATONVILLE, Fla. – A vacant 117-acre property in Eatonville that once held a historic Black school has been at the center of years of debate, lawsuits and political disagreements.
The Hungerford property, once home to the Hungerford School, remains a focal point for residents who say the land represents a key part of the town’s identity and future.
Town leaders are expected to receive an update Tuesday evening from Dr. Phillips Charities on redevelopment plans for the site during a workshop at 6:30 p.m.
For years, the empty stretch of land has sparked some of the biggest debates in Eatonville.
The property once housed the historic Hungerford School, where generations of Black students were educated during segregation. Even after the school closed and buildings were demolished, many residents continued to view the land as culturally significant.
That history is part of why discussions over its future have remained ongoing for years.
In 2025, the Orange County School Board approved a plan to sell the property to Dr. Phillips Charities, despite objections from some members of the Eatonville Town Council.
Under the agreement, Dr. Phillips Charities has said the project’s initial phase will focus on “listening, research and feasibility,” supported by a community advisory committee made up of residents and subject-matter experts.
The organization has also said its broader vision for the site includes improving “livability,” supporting local business growth and promoting cultural tourism.
However, some residents have expressed concerns about how much input the town has had in shaping the future of the property and what ultimately will be built on the land.
That tension is part of why Tuesday’s workshop is drawing attention.
Town leaders are expected to hear updates on redevelopment planning and what progress has been made since the sale was approved.
The focus has now shifted from whether the deal should happen to whether early promises will become reality.
News 6 has reached out to Dr. Phillips Charities for details on what updates will be presented and whether the organization has met directly with residents to gather feedback. The station has also asked Eatonville officials what they hope to see developed on the property.
Dr. Phillips Charities said it looks forward to attending Tuesday’s workshop and sharing an update with the community at that time.
The workshop is scheduled for Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.