ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — University of Central Florida’s plans for a downtown campus are close to being a done deal, but not everyone is celebrating.
Residents who live east of Interstate 4 are worried several major projects will slowly force them from their community.
The UCF campus won’t directly displace residents, but people who live nearby are worried that the development trend will transform the community and send the neighbors packing.
“It’s not for this type of environment neighborhood,” said Allen Lee, who lives near Creative Village.
Gov. Rick Scott said Tuesday he won’t veto the state funding the university needs to get the project going.
On top of that, a new soccer stadium and new school are taking shape a few blocks away in Parramore.
And eventually, the Orlando Magic’s Entertainment Complex will be finished.
“It’s going to push a lot of people away from this neighborhood,” said Lee.
Supporters said the project will boost the economy, add jobs, and improve the look of the neighborhood.
But activist Lawanna Gelzer said residents doubt they’ll benefit from the changes.
“Do the accountability, do the test, find out how many people really do get jobs,” she said.
UCF officials said they are aware of the concerns.
The school said it wants the project to be for the community and has worked with local leaders to support neighbors.
The school plans to officer clinics and job training for residents.
“People grown up here, born here, stayed over here, in this neighborhood for years,” said Lee.
Commissioner Regina Hill said the campus will give the neighbors access to better education and health care.
Cox Media Group
