ORLANDO, Fla. – Tim Green, a Parramore native, says he’s pushing a massive redevelopment plan he believes can create new opportunities for the community — while acknowledging longstanding fears about gentrification.
Green is the developer and founder of what he calls the Green District Smart City. He points to his own upbringing as motivation.
“Growing up in such rough neighborhoods … God had a different plan for me so here I am doing God’s work,” Green said.
Green first tried to get the project off the ground in 2023, but said it ran into hurdles over hotel heights and was ultimately shut down. He says he understands why residents are cautious.
“There’s sensitivity in Parramore… luxury buildings, tall buildings equals what… gentrification,” Green said.
Now, Green says he’s taking advantage of Florida’s Live Local Act, which can bypass many city and county building restrictions — as long as affordable housing units are included.
Under the current concept, the development would include affordable housing along with four large hotels, shopping, restaurants and entertainment.
Transportation is also a major part of the pitch. Green says the plan calls for shuttles and other options aimed at connecting residents, workers and tourists to major destinations.
“We’ll have a ton of shuttles. We think transportation is pretty big… what if you worked at Universal Studios or Disney? Or what if you’re a tourist and you want to stay downtown… how do you get there?” Green said. “So we’re going to solve that problem…”
Green says his long-term vision would stretch from Jackson to Central — about 200 acres — with up to $2 billion invested in Parramore.
“We wanna make our community safe, sound and smart,” he said.
As for timing, Green says his goal is to break ground in summer 2027.
Green also says he’s aware some Parramore residents fear they could be pushed out, but promises the project will include outreach and resources aimed at helping current residents remain in the neighborhood.
“We’ll have community meetings, community engagement to show folks how they can get involved and how they can get on the list to get the needed housing, the needed jobs and the needed support,” Green said.
Right now, the master plan is undergoing review — a step before final approval.