Orange County commissioners approve zoning for Skyplex

ORLANDO, Fla. — It looks like the world's tallest roller coaster will be coming to International Drive.

Orange County's Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a zoning grant Tuesday for Skyplex Orlando.

Opposition led by neighboring Universal Orlando said the proposed 570-foot "Skyscraper" coaster, which would have a 450-foot drop, is too tall and would adversely change the culture of the tourist corridor.

Developer Joshua Wallack said he believes it's nothing more than some of the area's older tourism businesses being fearful of competition.

“We couldn’t be happier with the board’s decision. We couldn’t be happier with the support we have received,” Wallack said.

He said Skyplex has the critical mass to full the coffers with tax revenue and bring in thousands of jobs to the area.

Since the project was announced, it’s been a hard fought battle against Universal Orlando, which has fought to keep the roller coaster from getting off the ground with mailers to the community.

The project received a recommendation for approval by a development review committee in June. But in October, the planning and zoning commission voted 4-3 recommending that commissioners deny rezoning, due to compatibility concerns, height, perceived traffic impacts and light pollution.

"We have the ability to do a $500 million investment there, which will create thousands of jobs," said Wallack.

Universal said the tall tower will be visible from its theme park and will ruin the Harry Potter Experience.

During the meeting, representatives with Universal Orlando voiced their concerns about the project, saying it had nothing to do with competition.

"We create an immersive experience and when you're in an immersive experience you have to feel like you're being transported to a different place and time and that is critical to how the theme park industry works. So, yes that is a concern," said Universal Orlando lobbyist John McReynolds. “We actually welcome the Wallacks here to central Florida. We welcome their investment. We think they will do good things but it has to fit in with our community and height is the issue.”

The commission meeting was expected to go well into Tuesday night. By late afternoon 55 people had signed up to speak as a part of the public input portion of the proceedings, with 46 of those favoring the project and nine to speak in opposition.

Commissioners approved the zoning for the project just before 7 p.m.

WFTV