Orlando halts Leu Gardens expansion over Amendment 3 concerns
ORLANDO, Fla. —
The city of Orlando has paused its multimillion-dollar, five-year strategic plan to expand Harry P. Leu Gardens, citing community feedback and concerns about the potential impact of Florida’s Amendment 3 on property tax revenues.
Leu Gardens, a 50-acre botanical oasis located just north of downtown Orlando, was donated to the city in 1961 by Harry P. Leu and his wife, Mary Jane. The lakefront estate, which includes a historic home, welcomes nearly 300,000 visitors annually and features diverse horticulture, a butterfly garden, and art programs for all ages.
The strategic plan for the gardens included proposals for more parking, a new visitor center, a children’s garden, and other additions.
However, the city decided to halt the project.
Andrea Otero, a spokesperson for the city of Orlando, said in a release, “After careful consideration of that feedback, the needs and priorities of the Gardens, and the uncertainty surrounding Amendment 3 and future property tax revenues, the City has decided not to move forward with the current conceptual plan and master planning process.”
City leaders also emphasized the importance of maintaining the gardens despite the pause in planning.
“This includes making necessary repairs, addressing aging infrastructure, maintaining existing buildings and grounds, and making improvements that are needed to safely and responsibly operate the Gardens,” Otero said.
Officials added that they will continue to keep the community informed as decisions are made regarding the future of Leu Gardens.