ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Orange County commissioners are set to consider a proposed $800 million spending plan that would use tourist tax dollars to fund 13 projects, including major investments in the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Eatonville and the University of Central Florida.
The largest recommended investment would go to the Dr. Phillips Center in downtown Orlando.
The center originally asked for $750 million, but Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings is recommending $400 million. That amount would still make up nearly half of the proposed funding package.
One supporter said the arts are an important part of the community.“I’m really hoping it goes through,” the supporter said. “Theater and arts is such a huge part of Orlando’s culture and everybody’s culture. So expanding upon that, it looks like they have the space and land and opportunities. So why not dive into something positive for our community?”
The money would come from Orange County’s tourist development tax, a 6% tax collected on hotel and vacation rental stays. Those dollars help pay for tourism marketing, venues and other projects designed to draw visitors to the county. In Eatonville, two projects made the recommended list.
The plan includes $60 million for a museum of culture and history at the Hungerford property and $20 million for the town’s heritage tourism district.
The University of Central Florida would receive $46 million to expand its soccer stadium and build a track facility.
UCF’s original request also included broadcast upgrades and a new softball stadium. Other projects on the list include a children’s museum in Winter Garden, a parking garage for Camping World Stadium and additional grants for arts and ecotourism projects.
The proposal is not final. Orange County commissioners are scheduled to consider the plan Monday at 12:30 p.m.
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