EATONVILLE, Fla. — The town of Eatonville announced Friday that it wants to build an $8 million African American History and Heritage Museum in its downtown area.
The 124,000 square-foot facility is planned for the 100-acre Hungerford school site still owned by Orange County Public Schools.
Eatonville Mayor Anthony Grant said he plans to ask for funding from the federal government, Orange County Public Schools and the county's tourist development council.
The county and school district said they weren't aware of the project.
"Information on the presentation today is news to OCPS; We are not aware that the Eatonville council has taken any action on a new plan," OCPS Senior Manager of Facilities Communications Lauren Roth said.
Grant announced plans during the town's annual Zora Festival. He said it will be the largest research center on African-American history in Florida.
"I'm very excited about the opportunity. I believe they will be very receptive to it," Grant said.
Grant said his hopes are to break ground in five years.
Cox Media Group
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