Walt Disney World dedicated nearly 80 acres to a massive affordable housing project near its Orlando park. But Orange County NIMBYs aren’t having it
Disney-backed affordable housing project is angering some Orange County resident Fortune
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Disney’s Affordable Housing Project in Orange County Faces Opposition
Disney, known as the happiest place on earth, is facing opposition from Orange County residents due to an affordable housing project planned near Walt Disney World. The project, announced two years ago, aims to provide 1,400 units of mixed-income housing, with at least 1,000 units reserved for residents earning 50% to 100% of the median income. However, concerns have been raised about potential congestion and strain on the public school system in the area.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Goal 1: No Poverty
- Goal 4: Quality Education
- Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Just the latest target of NIMBYs
The United States is currently experiencing a housing crunch, with affordability being a major concern. The opposition to Disney’s affordable housing project in Orange County is an example of NIMBYism, which refers to the resistance against new housing developments in established areas. Despite the objections from some residents, several groups including hoteliers, Habitat for Humanity, and a school teachers union have expressed support for the project.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Goal 1: No Poverty
- Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
More about the project
The groundbreaking for the affordable housing project is scheduled for this year, with the first units expected to be available in 2026. The development is open to any Orange County residents who meet the income requirements, not just Disney employees. While concerns have been raised about the impact on local schools, Orange County Public Schools has determined that they will have sufficient capacity by the time the development is completed. The developer, The Michaels Organization, has also committed to paying impact fees to the county for public infrastructure and services.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Goal 1: No Poverty
- Goal 4: Quality Education
- Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Disney’s role in the project is limited to providing the land, and the company has stated that it will not profit from the development. The Michaels Organization will handle the construction, ownership, and operation of the development, which will be privately financed.
“This initiative has been in the works for several years as the lack of affordable housing is affecting many people across our country, including those who live and work in Central Florida,” according to Walt Disney World. “This project is the right opportunity and the right time to take action.”
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
-
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Target 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums.
- Target 11.3: By 2030, enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated, and sustainable human settlement planning and management in all countries.
-
SDG 4: Quality Education
- Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes.
- Target 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums. | The article discusses the affordable housing project in Orange County, which aims to provide affordable housing units to residents earning 50% to 100% of the median income. |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.3: By 2030, enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated, and sustainable human settlement planning and management in all countries. | The article mentions concerns about the project adding congestion to the area and pressure on its public school system, indicating the need for sustainable urban planning and management. |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes. | The article does not directly address this target. |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | Target 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development. | The article does not directly address this target. |
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Source: fortune.com
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