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Developer presents mixed‑use vision for downtown Ocoee, flags market constraints
Summary
G3 Development presented a downtown master‑developer report recommending mixed‑use blocks, three catalyst projects (lakeside restaurant, band shell, future parking structure) and a toolbox of municipal incentives; the firm warned new construction rents will likely need to reach about $40–$50 per sq. ft. to be viable, while current downtown rents are roughly $18–$20.
G3 Development delivered a presentation to the Ocoee City Commission on Nov. 18 proposing a phased, mixed‑use redevelopment framework for downtown Ocoee.
Jake Gunther, representing G3, told the commission the firm reviewed four prior downtown studies and used them to shape a development framework that emphasizes mixed‑use buildings, pedestrian connections and ‘activation’ projects. He highlighted three catalyst projects to jump‑start the area: reusing the recording studio as a lakeside restaurant, building a band shell to host events in Bilbrey’s Park, and planning for a future parking structure.
Gunther emphasized financial realities. “Rents need to be somewhere between $40 and $50 a square foot for new construction,” he said, and contrasted that with current market conditions in downtown Ocoee where rents are “somewhere between $18 to $20 a square foot.” He urged the commission to consider a toolbox of municipal measures — land contribution, tax‑fee deferments, tenant improvement assistance, CRA grants and predevelopment support — to make projects feasible.
The presentation included examples from neighboring municipalities, including a recently completed 140‑space garage in Wildwood that Gunther said had been an asset to a nascent downtown. He recommended a phased approach with short‑term “wins,” mid‑term steps to maintain momentum, and long‑term build‑out over a 10‑plus year horizon.
Commissioners raised questions about scale and placement for the band shell and asked that lakeside dining lean toward a higher‑end operator rather than a low‑end concept. Gunther said the band shell should be “complimentary versus taking away from” nearby businesses and suggested creating a merchants association to program weekday and weekend activity.
The commission consented to schedule a workshop to refine G3’s recommendations and hear public input before any formal direction or agreements.
