ORLANDO, Fla. \u2013 A proposed parking garage in Orlando\u2019s Mills 50 district could bring hundreds of new spaces to an area known for crowded streets and limited parking.<\/p>\n
But the project is also raising concerns from business owners who say the development could force longtime tenants to leave.<\/p>\n
The Orlando Planning Board reviewed plans Tuesday for a proposed seven-story parking garage near the intersection of Mills Avenue and East Colonial Drive.<\/p>\n
The project would replace the existing building at Woodward Street and Mills Avenue with a garage featuring nearly 400 parking spaces and retail space on the ground floor.<\/p>\n
For many visitors, the idea addresses a longtime challenge.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a very busy area,\u201d said Lily Raza, who said she frequently struggles with traffic and parking in the district. \u201cEven on weekdays, all kinds of days, it seems like there\u2019s a lot of traffic.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Mills 50 neighborhood has grown into a popular destination with restaurants, shops and businesses \u2014 increasing demand for parking.<\/p>\n
But the current building is not vacant.<\/p>\n
It is home to several businesses, including an Asian bistro, a fitness and flexibility gym, a karate studio and a coffee shop.<\/p>\n
Michael Berry, owner of Pure Energy Fitness and Flexibility, said his landlord approached tenants months ago about the proposal. He said he has already started looking for a new location after operating in the space for nine years.<\/p>\n
Berry said he understands the need for more parking but worries about what the project means for existing businesses.<\/p>\n
\u201cEven here at night, parking is a bit chaotic,\u201d Berry said. \u201cMy clients have to park sometimes two and three blocks over. But again, no parking garage won\u2019t affect my clients any longer because we will no longer be here.\u201d<\/p>\n
Berry said the area needs parking, but he hopes the impact on small businesses is considered.<\/p>\n
\u201cI also see four other businesses that have been here for many years and are trying to survive and thrive,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
According to the city, the proposal will move forward for Municipal Planning Board minutes to be reviewed and approved by City Council.<\/p>\n
If approved, the developer can begin the permitting process.<\/p>\n
Jayna Manohalal is the Orange County Community Correspondent for News 6.<\/p>\n
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