Orlando Dreamers Face Relocation: Water and Electric Facilities May Shift for New Stadium Site

The Orlando Dreamers possess a billionaire backer and intend to build a cutting-edge stadium. For their planned Major League team to be based at this location near International Drive, they require backing from Orange County. However, some local government representatives are worried that this project might initially burden the county with expenditures reaching several dozen million dollars prior to commencing construction at the suggested site.

Last week, Commissioner Kelly Semrad had a meeting with the Orlando Dreamers regarding the potential construction of an MLB team on the valuable, publicly owned property.

To construct here, somebody will need to cover the expenses of relocating this functioning Orange County water treatment facility along with an electrical substation managed by Duke Energy.

Jim Schnorf from Orlando Dreamers states that their architects think this will not pose an unmanageable challenge regarding time or expense.

“In the broader perspective of the entire project expenses encompassing stadium building, parking structure development, along with enhancements to adjacent facilities, it turns out to be quite feasible,” Schnorf stated.

However, Semrad mentions that her district prioritizes more urgent requirements such as repairing Wedgefield’s water system, which might require up to $80 million.

“The county lacks funds to address that issue over there. It becomes quite challenging to justify spending tens of millions of dollars to relocate an operational water plant just to make room for a professional baseball team,” Semrad stated.

For the Orlando Dreamers to consider Orange County as their home, the MLB necessitates a collaboration between public and private sectors.

It might involve Orange County providing the land, exempting from taxes, or funding the relocation of these facilities.

Schnorf mentioned that the Dreamers are open to adjustments regarding what the county contributes financially.

Semrad mentions she seeks further information about the specifics of this public-private collaboration and how Dreamers might benefit the community. She explained to Channel 9 her interest in understanding how Dreamers could play a role in projects such as enhancing SunRail infrastructure.

The Dreamers claim their intention is to construct six illuminated youth baseball fields and six lit softball venues within every commissioner district.

“The community ought to see tangible money being directed back into the community to enhance their standard of living,” Semrand stated.

Schnorf indicates that the location on I-Drive is perfect and top choice. Nonetheless, the Dreamers are exploring various alternatives inside and outside of Orange County as possible homes for their group.

“We have an unwavering belief that no other project or endeavor could even come close to matching the economic benefits this will bring to Central Florida,” Schnorf stated.

We contacted Duke Energy for their input regarding the potential relocation.

They issued a statement:

Duke Energy Florida hasn’t received the site plans for this location yet. It’s too early for us to assess what infrastructure changes might be necessary. We’re eager to collaborate closely with upcoming clients as they plan their new sites.

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