Winter Park gondola proposal targets $2.6 billion development

A proposed aerial transit system in Winter Park, consisting of a 3.5- to 4-mile-long gondola, aims to connect downtown Winter Park to the resort and the Amtrak Winter Park Resort train platform. The project is intended to support a $2.6 billion real estate endeavor and foster a year-round economy while expanding ski terrain.

Financing the estimated $400 million in public infrastructure remains a central challenge. A proposed plan involves the Winter Park Urban Renewal Authority collecting property, lodging, and sales tax revenue from a zoned development area stretching from Old Town to Jim Creek. This revenue would be used to fund debt incurred by the Winter Park Regional Transit Authority. The plan, which requires approval, has faced scrutiny from local officials regarding the surrender of future tax revenues from 11 special taxing districts.