ORLANDO, Fla. \u2013 A controversial high-rise development proposal in downtown Orlando has cleared an early approval hurdle, moving forward despite opposition from nearby residents and leaders of a 100-year-old church that would share the block with the planned tower.<\/p>\n
The Orlando Municipal Planning Board approved the vision for the project, which could become one of the tallest developments in downtown Orlando. The proposed 37-story tower is planned at 170 E. Washington Street with more than 200 residential units, an additional 200 hotel room, retail and business areas with a parking garage.<\/p>\n
Supporters say the project could bring more housing, increase foot traffic and create a more active downtown corridor. But some neighbors remain concerned about construction impacts, congestion and whether the development fits the surrounding community.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt would have to be built somewhere else,\u201d one resident said after viewing renderings of the proposed tower.<\/p>\n
A major concern comes from leaders at a nearby 100-year-old church, who worry construction could damage the historic building.<\/p>\n
Father John Hamatie said the foundation work he believes could caused the church to be put at a serious risk. <\/p>\n
\u201cTo build a building that high, you have to drive pylons very deep into the ground,\u201d Hamatie said. \u201cSo a 37-story building will have major damage to the church, although they say they have techniques \u2014 but I don\u2019t believe that.\u201d<\/p>\n
Parking and traffic are also concerns for some residents and business owners as downtown Orlando continues to grow.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe congregation is growing,\u201d Hamatie said, pointing to the area\u2019s increasing activity.<\/p>\n
People in the neighborhood had mixed reactions to the proposal. Some said additional housing could make sense in an already developing downtown area, while others questioned whether the project would benefit current residents.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe already have a lot of condos and apartments, so it will fit,\u201d one person said. \u201cBut is it going to benefit the people here? I doubt it, because it\u2019s already expensive to live downtown.\u201d<\/p>\n
Another resident said the project appears too close to the church and surrounding buildings.<\/p>\n
The development team says the project could help increase housing options, create a stronger street presence and enhance downtown Orlando.<\/p>\n
Additional city discussions on the proposal are expected to continue as the project moves through the approval process.<\/p>\n
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