The landscape of the Lake-Orange county line is on the verge of a significant shift. Scott Boyd, former Orange County Commissioner and lead of McKinnon Corp., is moving forward with plans for the Johns Lake Urban Village Planned Unit Development (UVPUD). This 319-acre project seeks to transform historic citrus groves into a multi-faceted community, blending residential living with high-end hospitality and educational infrastructure.
With the project currently in the rezoning stage, it is slated for consideration by the Winter Garden Planning & Zoning Board this May. Here is a comprehensive look at what is proposed for the southern edge of Johns Lake.
A Vision for Mixed-Use Living
The Johns Lake UVPUD is designed as a “mixed-use” destination rather than a standard subdivision. The proposal includes:
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Residential Variety: Plans call for 613 homes, ranging from townhomes and cottages to expansive lakefront estates.
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The Resort District: A standout feature of the plan is a 31.6-acre boutique resort. This district is envisioned to host a 40-room inn, a restaurant, a wedding chapel, and an event barn, all connected by a series of boardwalks, trails, and observation decks.
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Environmental Preservation: As part of the Wekiva Study Area, the development aims to maintain a 75-foot continuous buffer between the resort and residential lots, preserving the area’s iconic oak trees and natural character.
Supporting Local Infrastructure and Education
One of the most significant components of the UVPUD is the inclusion of a site for Orange County Public Schools (OCPS). The land is intended to serve as a relief site for Hamlin Elementary School. While the school district does not anticipate construction until at least 2036, the dedication of land now ensures the city is prepared for long-term growth.
Furthermore, Boyd has highlighted the developer’s commitment to regional connectivity. This includes land dedications for the extension of Amber Sweet Lane and the advancement of infrastructure that supports the wider Winter Garden and Clermont areas.
Addressing Community Concerns: The Traffic Question
As with any large-scale development, the project has met with local opposition. Over 30 residents have filed formal concerns, primarily focusing on the impact to Marsh Road. Neighbors have expressed worries that the existing two-lane road cannot support the influx of traffic from 600+ homes and a commercial resort.
In response, Boyd points to several major regional roadway projects—including the widening of State Road 429 and the construction of State Road 516—as factors that will “fully mitigate” traffic impacts. According to the development team, these improvements, funded in part by road impact fees, will reduce the burden on Hartwood Marsh Road and Avalon Road over time.
The Johns Lake UVPUD represents the fulfillment of a vision established decades ago in the Horizon West Special Area Plan. As the project moves toward the Planning & Zoning Board, it stands as a testament to the ongoing evolution of Winter Garden—balancing the demand for new housing and amenities with the preservation of the Florida landscape.
Stay tuned for updates following the May hearing.