PHOTO VIA THE MILK DISTRICT FACEBOOK PAGE
The City of Orlando has contracted with Inspire Placemaking Collective (Website) to develop a vision land use plan for the Milk District, a study that could lead to new zoning entitlements and development standards across one of the city’s most interesting neighborhoods.
The proposal, dated May 22, 2026, outlines a $174,960 contract for a nine-month study covering the area generally bound by Colonial Drive to the north, Bumby Avenue to the west, South Street to the south, and Maguire Boulevard/Crystal Lake Drive to the east, including the Robinson Street corridor extending to Fern Creek Avenue and The Milk District Main Street (Website) told Orlando Shine that the study is long overdue. They shared that the district is one of the few Main Streets without an overall vision plan with the city, and that leadership is appreciative of the city examining the area to prepare for future investment.
The Main Street’s director, Angie Folks, said she her board want any plan that comes into play to preserve the neighborhood’s existing character while expanding opportunities for local small businesses. And they want the plan to prioritize pedestrian and cyclist access and safety.
The scope of work includes land use analysis, identification of underutilized and vacant parcels, conceptual redevelopment scenarios, and recommendations for minimum acreage thresholds required before property owners can pursue up-zoning. The study will also assess utility and infrastructure needs and explore establishing a transportation impact fee sub-benefit area tied to improvements along Robinson Street.
Public engagement will be conducted in coordination with the Main Street Association through community workshops, surveys, and neighborhood meetings. Residents and business owners are encouraged to follow @themilkdistrict on social media for updates on engagement dates and locations.
The final report will guide future amendments to the city’s Growth Management Plan and Land Development Code. It is expected to be presented before the Municipal Planning Board before finalization.
Inspire Placemaking Collective is the same firm that worked with the City of Orlando to develop conceptual designs for the proposed O-Line Trail in the SoDo District.
