Universal gives update on affordable housing project

Universal has announced an update in regards to its affordable housing project.

At the I-4 Commercial Conference Friday, Sept. 15, in Lakeland, Jeff Polk, the vice president and general manager of EPIC Universe, said the project will break ground in the next two months.

The housing project will include 1,000 affordable apartments on 20-acres of land between Tradeshow Boulevard and Destination Parkway.

The site will also include 16,000 square feet of retail space.

Plans for the development include a tuition-free preschool, on-site medical offices, a transportation center, technology cafés, bike and walking paths, two pools, and a gym.

The land is part of Universal’s nonprofit arm, “Housing for Tomorrow.” The initiative aims to create inclusive and economically diverse housing options.