Vision

The Packing District is rooted in history, grounded in opportunity and directed toward the future. It will be a new community for the city of Orlando, stitching together neighborhoods and honoring the legacy of this special place.

Led by Dr. Phillips Charities, the development of the site represents an opportunity to celebrate the history of The Packing District and look toward the future of the community, the city and the region. The district’s master plan has been designed to encourage community wellness from the development of a new regional park to the network of plazas – each connected by pedestrian and bike trails that stitch everything together.

Some highlights of the district include:

  • YMCA Family Center
  • Regional Park
  • Trails
  • Food Hall
 
Conceptual rendering of the YMCA family center from close-up
Conceptual rendering of the YMCA Family Center in The Packing District from far away
Conceptual rendering of public space in The Packing District

By the Numbers:

  • 202 acres of land in the City of Orlando

  • 97 acres of land currently industrial/commercial to be converted to mixed-use and residential

  • 105 acres of dedicated regional park, including 40-acre urban farm

  • 3,500 units of projected residential, >1 million square feet of projected retail and office space

  • Annexed into the City of Orlando in 1996 with PD

History

Humble Beginnings

One of the original citrus producers in the region, Dr. Phillips used the land that stretches along Orange Blossom Trail near College Park as the site of one of his multiple premier packing houses, creating a key place in the early economic ecosystem of Orlando. The site was the first industrial property in Central Florida and the crown jewel in the Dr. Phillips real estate holdings. Buildings on the site focused on his business and his philanthropic passion of enriching his community. Most of the buildings were constructed by his teams using special Dr. Phillips bricks and a loving hand.

Community Builders

The Packing District is a culmination of efforts stretching back almost 100 years. This place began with a man, Dr. Phillips, who sought to give citrus to the world while using his profits to give back to his community. Over the years, the business and his impact on the community grew. Then, with the passing of the family and the selling of the citrus business, the profits were entrusted to Dr. Phillips, Inc. – an organization created to carry out the charitable legacy of Dr. Phillips. Since 1953, the organization has been giving back and has gained the respect of the community to do the right thing.

“We are stewards first and foremost. Our mission is to create value that benefits our community.”

- Dr. Phillips Charities

View of the Packing District looking towards today's College Park neighborhood, circa 1938 Exterior view of the Dr. Philips orange stand Interior view of the Dr. Philips orange stand

Opportunities

The Packing District will preserve and recapture our community’s history by establishing a new place of living and commerce.

The development of The Packing District will be led by Dr. Phillips Charities, an organization experienced in master planning and implementation. The 202-acre site is a rich historic industrial and commercial landscape positioned next to the strong well-established neighborhood of College Park in Orlando. The market is projected to continue growing over the next few decades. Combined, these elements create a special moment in time to think toward the future.


For more information or to be a part of this transformational project, please fill out our Contact Us form.


Timeline

Cool Timeline

2020
City of Orlando approves an $18.1 million road improvement package
City of Orlando approves an $18.1 million road improvement package

The road improvements to the intersection of N. Orange Blossom Trail and Princeton Street in the Packing District will include the addition of a roundabout, the repaving of streets, sidewalks and bike paths, the installation of bike racks, benches, street lights and construction of utility facilities.

Construction Begins on Streetscape
Construction Begins on Streetscape

Primary streets will be reoriented for pedestrians and cyclists with complete street upgrades.

2021
YMCA Construction to Begin
YMCA Construction to Begin

The YMCA Family Center in The Packing District was initiated through a gift of $8.9 million and the land from Dr. Phillips Charities. Once complete, the new Family Center will offer state-of-the art wellness equipment and specialized programs to promote healthy living for every age and ability.

4Roots Breaks Ground In The Packing District
4Roots Breaks Ground In The Packing District

The 18-acre 4Roots Farm Campus, is being developed in the Packing District to serve as a community crossroads that connects and serves everyone – farmers, students, professionals, and families.  At its basic level, it is focused on educating and inspiring them to realize their respective roles in building a better food…
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2022
Toll Brothers Townhome Model Center To Begin Construction
Conceptual rendering of townhomes

Dr. Phillips Charities is teaming up with Pennsylvania-based Toll Brothers to build 135 townhomes on eight acres within The Packing District’s regional park, creating a natural synergy for two organizations known for their philanthropic efforts. The three-story townhomes with optional roof top terraces will create exciting and beautiful views of…
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Embrey’s The Cannery to Open to Residents
Embrey’s The Cannery to Open to Residents

The Cannery at The Packing District is a luxury Class A multifamily project developed by Embrey. Embrey’s The Cannery will provide 307 residential units that featured amenities include a pool and courtyard; two additional courtyards with entertainment areas; a lounge with roof deck; a resident lounge, a Wi-Fi lounge and…
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