'It is coming': Parramore hopes new development will transform community

ORLANDO, Fla. — Leaders broke ground on a new affordable housing community Friday that neighbors hope will transform Orlando’s Parramore community.

“I’ve lived here for 44 years,” said Florette Jamieson. She’s been watching and waiting for Parramore Oaks, an affordable-housing complex years in the making, to finally be built.

She said she hopes it cleans up her longtime neighborhood.

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“It is coming. Everything takes time. It is coming. Gradually,” Jamieson said.

Crews and community held a groundbreaking ceremony Friday.

For some time, crews have been clearing the six-acre plot at the corner of Parramore Avenue and Conley Street, across from Z.L. Riley Park.

The first phase will have 120 units and is expected to be built in 18 months. The second phase will add 91 more units. Both phases will include storefront business space at street level.

SLIDESHOW: Parramore hopes new development will transform community

“That will be so nice. That will save me time. I could just walk over and come back,” Jamieson said. “That’s what we need!”

The project is an extension of the Parramore Comprehensive Neighborhood Plan. The city said it is working to make sure residents have access to quality, safe and affordable places to live in a neighborhood with a rough reputation.

“When I saw that, I thought, ‘improvements.’ Everything here will be improved,” Jamieson said.

PHOTOS: Parramore hopes new development will transform community

Cox Media Group