Earlier this month, we covered Mayor Buddy Dyer’s State of Downtown, at which he gave a big shout-out to Project DTO, the task force that polled Orlando residents about what they would like to see in a thriving downtown. Among the things Project DTO said people want is a celebration of the city’s history, more focus on outdoor activities and a “creator” culture.
Orlando Weekly has some ideas of its own that we think would contribute to a thriving culture in Orlando – not just downtown but across the entire city.
Re-examine comprehensive planning for neighborhoods outside of downtown to reflect and enhance culture and communities that are already thriving. Don't let aggressive development trample on delicate things that are growing organically.
Create Project DTO-style task forces for all of the city's Main Streets, so the stakeholders in those areas can give feedback for improvements in their neighborhoods.
Create a streamlined process for permitting that makes it easier for small, locally owned businesses to set up shop in and around downtown Orlando. We desperately need retail and a stronger gallery culture close to downtown
Stop tearing down the few cool, old buildings we have left in our downtown core. If they're in decent shape, adapt and reuse.
We need SunRail to run to run on nights and weekends. We feel like we can't say it often enough.