PHOTO VIA SODO DISTRICT MAIN STREET
The SoDo Main Street District (Website) has launched a new initiative to “honor Orlando’s resilience, strengthen neighborhood pride, and expand public art across the district.” The effort comes after the removal of the Pulse memorial crosswalk and more than 50 decorative crosswalks in recent weeks, which had served as both a community investment and a tribute to the lives lost in the Pulse tragedy
To keep color and creativity central to SoDo’s identity, the district is rolling out several projects. Nearly 60 new decorative “Orlando United” and SoDo banners are being installed throughout the neighborhood by the end of September, in time for Orlando’s Come Out with Pride celebration.
Yard signs bearing the same message are available at Clean Eatz (Website) in SoDo for a minimum donation of $5, which will support future mural and art projects. Reusable “Orlando is Better in Color” tote bags are also being sold for $15, and free posters with the same message are available to local businesses and residents HERE, via Palmr.
SoDo is also inviting businesses to participate by hosting micro-fundraisers, distributing yard signs, or launching their own efforts to raise money for public art. These activities are meant to build on the momentum of three new murals recently announced in the district, with more planned. All net proceeds from the banners, tote bags, and other items will go directly toward public art and beautification projects in SoDo
“This effort is about more than banners, signs, or tote bags; it’s about public art and a sense of place,” said Misty Heath, executive director of the SoDo District. “Orlando United will always be part of SoDo’s story, and these projects celebrate our neighborhood’s unique character while ensuring we continue to build a creative, connected community filled with color, pride, and resilience.”
The SoDo Main Street District is a nonprofit organization focused on supporting and enhancing the economic vitality, sense of community, and unique character of the SoDo neighborhood in Orlando through events, public art, and community-driven programs.
