County hosting Vision 2050 town hall meetings

Orange County Government’s Planning Division wants to hear from residents about the future of the community.

Vision 2050, Orange County’s comprehensive plan, will guide the next phase of growth. The plan strives to protect natural resources and habitats, respect the diversity and character of established communities, increase transportation choices, encourage housing that meets the needs of every family, and connect vibrant places, according to county officials.

Over the next few months, town hall meetings will take place around the county so residents can learn about the principles of Vison 2050, as well as how to participate with online tools and resources to share their thoughts.

The first meeting is at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 9, at Korean Presbyterian Church of Orlando, 16796 Davenport Road, Winter Garden. This meeting will be tailored to District 1, represented by Commissioner Nicole Wilson, and will include brief staff presentations, Q&A sessions and panel discussions.

The Bureau of Economic & Business Research of the University of Florida estimates that by 2050, the area’s population will increase by 700,000 people, with a total population expected to exceed 2.1 million. To prepare for this future in a smart and responsible way, Orange County has created Vision 2050 — an initiative that will guide officials toward responsible growth and greater resilience.

Residents will have a chance to shape the county’s vision by reviewing the plan and providing feedback through a new interactive mapping website, which can be accessed at bit.ly/v2050web.

For more information, visit ocfl.net/Vision2050.