Orange County is in the early stages of planning two high-density, mixed-use developments on county-owned land near the upcoming Epic Universe theme park and the Orange County Convention Center. These developments could offer nearly 3,000 multifamily housing units as the area continues to grow.
The county’s planning department has been evaluating the capacity of these properties and has released preliminary site plans, development scenarios, and renderings. The proposed projects include:
- 5980 Destination Parkway: A 14.4-acre site slated for 1,008 multifamily units and 54,000 square feet of commercial space. The site, currently used as overflow parking for the convention center, is adjacent to a planned SunRail station.
- 10191 International Drive: A 29-acre property proposed for 1,670 multifamily units, located south of the Beachline Expressway. A pedestrian bridge is planned to connect the site to the SunRail station.
Orange County Planning Manager Alberto Vargas discussed the potential of these sites during an Urban Land Institute event, noting that the process is still in its early stages. Infrastructure upgrades in the area include expanded bus services, improved walkability, and ongoing work on the I-4/Sand Lake Road interchange, which is expected to be completed by 2027.
Meanwhile, development surrounding Epic Universe is gaining momentum. Universal plans to open the Stella Nova and Terra Luna resorts in 2025, each featuring 750 rooms. Additionally, Universal’s Catchlight Crossings, a 1,000-unit affordable housing community, is set to begin vertical construction later this month.
The Orange County Convention Center is also undergoing a $560 million expansion, adding a new 80,000-square-foot ballroom, meeting spaces, and a grand concourse, with completion expected by 2028.