What could replace the former Holy Land Experience?

ORLANDO, Fla. — Plans are moving forward to transform the now-closed Holy Land Experience into a hospital campus.

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The city of Orlando planning board just approved the project on Tuesday.

The project needs city council approval next before the 14-acre site is transformed into a massive medical campus.

What once was a religious theme park in Orlando could soon become a place where people can access health care.

Last year, AdventHealth purchased the Holy Land site along Interstate 4 at the Conroy Road exit.

READ: AdventHealth lays out plans to build hospital, medical office on former site of Holy Land Experience

It is a two-phase project, starting with a four-story medical office building and helipad.

Then, AdventHealth leaders want to build a five-story hospital.

In a statement, AdventHealth said it plans to provide services such as cardiology, gastroenterology, orthopedics and women’s and children’s care.

“I think it’s a good idea for us to have a hospital. A new hospital, big hospital for all the people in this area,” said Irvin Lopez, a neighbor.

READ: AdventHealth’s site plan for former Holy Land Experience takes next step forward

Lopez lives in the apartment complex across the street.

He said the medical campus is a convenient location, but he’s a little concerned about the impact it could have on traffic in an already busy area.

“It’s a lot of traffic in this area because we have the (Mall at) Millenia,” Lopez said.

The Orlando City Council will meet next month to consider the proposal.

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If approved, AdventHealth can then apply for permits.

AdventHealth said it hopes to start work on the property in the fall.

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