The Parramore Area of Orlando had been in a state of decline for a number of years. In order to inspire some measure of revitalization it was included as a Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) and was also recognized as an Enterprise Zone. When the State Brownfields program was initiated, the Parramore Area was additionally designated a Brownfields Area.

Finally an investor showed interest in a particular site, the former location of a gas station and auto repair center. Through Phase 1 and Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) it was determined that both the groundwater and soils in the immediate area were contaminated with petroleum products and associated maintenance chemicals. Relying on the liability protection and other financial incentives offered by the Brownfields program the redevelopment for a project to be called ‘City View’ moved forward.

With additional financial incentives offered by the City of Orlando, $64M was invested in cleaning up the site and the construction of 266 much needed apartments; 40% of the apartments were constructed as affordable housing. When the project was complete, it included 200,000 square feet of office space, 25,000 square feet of retail, and a major corporation moved their Southeast Corporate headquarters into available commercial space.

Through incentives offered by the State Brownfields program, the investor received $900,000 in tax refunds from building materials used for affordable housing. In addition, investment bonuses were paid for new job creation. For the neighborhood, an eye-sore was removed and replaced by a facility that contributed immensely to the local economy as well as the community redevelopment effort in the area. Much needed housing was provided, the tax base expanded significantly, property values in the surrounding area increased dramatically, and the project served to initiate further development and revitalization in the neighborhood. As a result of Brownfields redevelopment, City View is leading the way for economic and social recovery of Orlando’s Parramore area.

< Return to Success Stories