This Week's Regional Perspective | February 13, 2026

Welcome to the Regional Perspective, where I share stories that bring the Orlando 2045 Vision to life and highlight the progress shaping our region’s future.

1) Orlando outpaces U.S. economic growth for fourth consecutive year – New federal estimates reveal Orlando’s economy grew 3.5% in 2024, higher than the 2.8% experienced by the wider U.S. economy, as local GDP reached $233 billion. The Orlando region’s economy is now bigger than that of 18 U.S. states and 55% larger than a decade ago. Read more from our Research & Strategy Team.

2) Advancing downtown Orlando’s future – This week, I joined the Orlando City Council workshop on the DTO Action Plan, an important moment for the future of downtown. The same day, the Orlando Sentinel published my op-ed supporting the City’s vision, including converting Orange, Magnolia, which is now under construction, and Rosalind Avenues to two way streets. These changes align directly with our Orlando 2045 Vision and strengthen our ability to recruit corporate headquarters to the region. We’ll continue working closely with the City and downtown business leaders as the plan moves forward. Read the article originally published in the Orlando Sentinel.

3) Major industrial investment in Sunbridge – VanTrust Real Estate is making a significant commitment to our region, investing nearly $130 million to develop 1 million square feet of Class A speculative industrial space in Sunbridge. This project strengthens our industrial portfolio and boosts competitiveness for future recruitment opportunities. OEP was proud to support the effort through key partner introductions, permitting guidance, and communications. Thank you to the City of Orlando, Orange County, Duke Energy, Land Reserve, and Tavistock Development Company for their collaboration. Learn more.

4) Skywater Technologies marks a milestone in NeoCity – This week marks five years since SkyWater established its presence in NeoCity in Osceola County, an investment that has become one of the region’s strongest proof points for our advanced manufacturing and semiconductor ambitions. SkyWater’s growth in Osceola County has validated the vision behind NeoCity and positioned Central Florida as a competitive player in advancing critical technologies. Their continued commitment underscores the momentum we’re building to attract high value industries, diversify our economy, and strengthen the talent pipeline that will define the next generation of innovation in our region. Congratulations to them and to our leaders and partners in Osceola County.

5) PLI Civic Leadership Track recruitment begins – Following the success of our inaugural civic leader track, and with Massey Services, Inc. joining as presenting sponsor, we’ve opened applications for the Spring 2026 Public Leadership Institute (PLI) Civic Leadership Track. This program is designed for executives who want to understand and influence public policy without pursuing elected offices. Participation is free, and space is limited to maximize peer connection and small group learning. Applicants from Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Brevard, Lake, Volusia, and Polk counties are encouraged to apply by March 6. Please share with leaders who should be part of this next class.

6) Florida Blue announces new Market President – Congratulations to Tanya Hill Easterling, the next Market President for Central Florida. Tanya brings nearly two decades of health care expertise and leadership in impactful hyper-local strategies that have supported positive growth in the region. Her appointment follows Tony Jenkins’ transition to Market President of Northeast Florida. We thank Tony for his longtime service to the region and to the OEP, where he served as chair of the board of directors. We look forward to working with Tanya as she steps into this well deserved leadership.

Programs & Events

LEADForward Roundtables – Spring 2026 Cohort // Application Deadline Extended to Jan. 30 // APPLY TODAY

Leadership Orlando Class 110 // Feb. 20 Enrollment Deadline // LEARN MORE & ENROLL TODAY

Barbecue in the Park presented by VyStar Credit Union // Feb. 25 // REGISTER TODAY – SELLING OUT SOON

Regional Leadership Conference presented by Universal Orlando Resort // Mar. 27 // REGISTER TODAY

ICYMI

By Light Acquires Dignitas Technologies – Business Wire

AT&T to add 100 Jobs in Orlando – Orlando Business Journal

Orlando eyes incentives to revive Church Street Corridor – Orlando Business Journal

Florida’s top universities could lose millions with out-of-state caps – Orlando Sentinel

Orlando wants to expand redevelopment to land surrounding Camping World Stadium – Orlando Sentinel

Duke Energy again named by Fortune one of World’s Most Admired Companies™ – Duke Energy | News Center