Apopka closer to finalizing plans for City Center

APOPKA, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - It has been talked about for years, and now it looks like it is very close to finally happening: a high-end, spiffy, City Center, the likes of which Apopka has never seen, according to City Manager Glen Irby.

Irby says, "It brings something to Apopka people have never had before....have to go to Orlando, Winter Park to experience things Taurus would bring to us."

Maitland-based developer Taurus Southern Investments is poised to purchase 35 acres on U.S. Highway 441 and State Road 436 from the city for $5 million to build a mixed-use development. The city bought the land years ago for nearly four times that value, but officials believe the potential growth will more than make up the difference, especially due to the Wekiva Parkway.  "We believe within five years, we'll hit 50,000 in population," says Irby.  "At about 46,000 right now."

That may not be the only City Center.  Irby says the square of businesses across from City Hall at Main Street and Park is being eyed by city's development agency for a second city square.

The city center deal with Taurus Southern could be finalized within the next couple months. The historic Highland Manor is part of the acreage. Irby says the city will insist the house is not tampered with in any way, and may possibly move it, depending on the developer's final plans for the property.

The deal allows for ten years for complete development, but Irby says if the deal is inked, it would likely be completed in two.