Orange County Mayor Proposes $800M Tourist Tax Plan for 13 Projects

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Orange County commissioners are preparing to review an $800 million proposal that would direct tourist tax revenue toward 13 projects, including major developments at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, in Eatonville and at the University of Central Florida.

The Dr. Phillips Center in downtown Orlando would receive the largest share of the recommended funding.

The performing arts center initially requested $750 million, but Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings is recommending $400 million instead. Even at that level, the project would account for nearly half of the proposed spending package.

Supporters say expanding the center would strengthen Orlando’s cultural offerings. “I’m really hoping it goes through,” one supporter said. “Theater and arts is such a huge part of Orlando’s culture and everybody’s culture. So expanding upon that, it looks like they have the space and land and opportunities. So why not dive into something positive for our community?”

The proposed funding would come from Orange County’s tourist development tax, a 6% levy on hotel stays and vacation rentals. The revenue supports tourism marketing, venues and other projects intended to attract visitors to the county. Two Eatonville projects are included in the recommendation.

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The plan sets aside $60 million for a museum of culture and history at the Hungerford property, along with $20 million for the town’s heritage tourism district.

UCF would receive $46 million to expand its soccer stadium and construct a track facility.

The university’s original request also called for broadcast upgrades and a new softball stadium. The broader list includes a children’s museum in Winter Garden, a parking garage at Camping World Stadium, and additional grants supporting arts and ecotourism projects.

The spending plan has not been finalized. Commissioners are scheduled to consider the proposal Monday at 12:30 p.m.