Universal gives update on affordable housing project

Universal has announced an update in regards to its affordable housing project.

At the I-4 Commercial Conference Friday, Sept. 15, in Lakeland, Jeff Polk, the vice president and general manager of EPIC Universe, said the project will break ground in the next two months.

The housing project will include 1,000 affordable apartments on 20-acres of land between Tradeshow Boulevard and Destination Parkway.

The site will also include 16,000 square feet of retail space. 

Plans for the development include a tuition-free preschool, on-site medical offices, a transportation center, technology cafés, bike and walking paths, two pools, and a gym.

The land is part of Universal's nonprofit arm, "Housing for Tomorrow." The initiative aims to create inclusive and economically diverse housing options.

"Affordable housing is one of our community’s most significant challenges – and Universal Destinations & Experiences is working to be part of the solution," Universal writes on its website. "We have long believed in giving back to the community that has supported us and where our team members live and raise their families. And now, we have created a first-of-its kind approach to helping our community provide more affordable housing for those who need it."

The development is a joint effort between Universal Parks & Resorts and Wendover Housing.

The Board of County Commissioners voted to award the project up to $7 million in public funding in February.

At the conference, Polk also discussed EPIC Universe, the newest park planned for Universal Orlando, which is set to open in 2025 as the largest park to be built by the company.

For more information on Universal's "Housing for Tomorrow" initiative, click here.