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The lack of affordable housing is not only a local, New Jersey issue, but a national one. So much so that Walt Disney World is building its first ever affordable housing development in Central Florida.

Disney’s vision was to dedicate 80 acres of land within 20 minutes of Magic Kingdom for a new affordable housing endeavor. Late last Fall, in collaboration with real estate developer, The Michaels Organization, Disney received final approval to build 1,400 mixed income units with 1,000 of them will be deemed as affordable. This is defined as 75% of the units/houses must be made available for those earning 50-100% of the median income for a family in Orlando.

“We are invested in working together with our community to solve complex issues,” said Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World Resort. “The lack of affordable housing is affecting many people across our country, including right here in Central Florida. With this initiative, we’re lending a hand to make a real and meaningful impact in our community by tapping into the best of our company’s strengths. This is the right opportunity and the right time to take action.”

Time will tell whether this development will make a real and meaningful impact. There has been a lot of opposition to the project and many feel that the units / housing will not be truly affordable for those in need including many of Disney’s own staff. It is though nice to see one of our country’s top and beloved corporations making such a large investment in the future of Central Florida. Hopefully other corporations will take notice and implement changes in their communities as affordable housing is the solution to homelessness.