It’s easy to get distracted by the massive theme park expansions, but the real story of Orlando’s growth is far more diverse. Beyond the tourist corridors, a significant revitalization is happening in the city's downtown, with new innovation districts, cultural venues, and mixed-use towers creating a vibrant urban core. At the same time, foundational infrastructure projects are underway to support this expansion for decades to come. Understanding this full spectrum of development is key to building a sustainable project pipeline. We’ll explore the full range of upcoming commercial construction projects Orlando has to offer, from high-profile entertainment venues to the critical infrastructure upgrades making it all possible.

Key Takeaways

• Look beyond the theme parks for diverse opportunities: Orlando's $50B+ construction boom isn't just about tourism. Major investments in downtown mixed-use developments, public infrastructure, and hospitality create a balanced project pipeline for every type of construction firm.
• Align your business development with project timelines: Strategically pursue finishing contracts for high-profile projects opening in 2025, or secure foundational work on long-term infrastructure upgrades that offer a steady stream of work for years to come.
• Get ahead of the competition by tracking early signals: Stop waiting for public bids. The real advantage comes from monitoring early indicators like permit filings and land deals to build relationships with decision-makers during the planning phase, positioning your firm as a key partner from the start.

What Major Construction Projects Are Coming to Orlando?

Orlando's growth is creating a wave of opportunities for general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. The city is buzzing with activity, from massive entertainment complexes to transformative downtown districts. Understanding these key projects is the first step to getting involved and finding where your services fit best.

The most talked-about development is Universal's Epic Universe, a colossal 750-acre theme park set to open in 2025. This project alone is expected to create over 17,000 jobs and will be accompanied by new lodging like the Universal Helios Grand Hotel. These groundbreaking developments signal a massive investment in the region's tourism and hospitality infrastructure, creating a ripple effect of opportunities for firms specializing in everything from concrete to interior finishing.

Beyond the theme parks, Downtown Orlando is undergoing a significant revitalization. The Creative Village is a transformative 68-acre area being built into a modern innovation hub with a mix of residential, commercial, and educational spaces. Nearby, projects like the Eola Food Hall and the Art² cultural park are enhancing the city's urban core, creating new venues for dining and community life that require a wide range of construction expertise.

On an even larger scale, the Sunbridge Community is essentially a new 'city' taking shape. With plans for nearly 30,000 homes and millions of square feet of commercial space, it represents a long-term pipeline of work for both residential and commercial builders. For firms looking to establish a foothold in a rapidly expanding market, these projects offer a clear view of where Orlando is headed.

What Types of Developments Are Transforming the City?

Orlando's construction boom is incredibly diverse, touching nearly every sector of the city's economy. While tourism is a major driver, the growth extends far beyond theme parks to include significant investments in hospitality, corporate offices, and vibrant community spaces. For general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, this means opportunities are not confined to one type of project. The city is undergoing a comprehensive transformation, creating a wide range of commercial construction needs from massive entertainment complexes to boutique retail and dining venues. Understanding these different project types is the first step to finding where your business fits into Orlando's future.

Theme Parks and Entertainment

It’s impossible to talk about Orlando without mentioning theme parks, and the current wave of development is bigger than ever. The centerpiece is Universal's Epic Universe, a colossal 750-acre park set to open in May 2025 with over 50 attractions. This project alone is a massive undertaking, but it’s part of a much larger picture. The city is seeing over $50 billion in new Orlando development projects that span public transport, technology, and sports infrastructure. For construction professionals, this signals a sustained demand for specialized skills in everything from structural engineering to themed environment creation, ensuring a steady pipeline of large-scale work.

Hotels and Hospitality

To support the influx of new visitors, Orlando’s hospitality sector is expanding rapidly. Directly connected to Epic Universe, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel will offer guests a luxury experience with a private park entrance. This is just one piece of a massive hospitality build-out. Disney is planning to invest $17 billion, which could result in 13,000 new hotel rooms and potentially a fifth theme park. These groundbreaking developments create a huge demand for contractors specializing in hotel construction, interior finishing, and large-scale resort amenities, from pools and restaurants to conference centers.

Office and Mixed-Use Developments

Beyond tourism, Orlando is strengthening its position as a business and technology hub. A key project is the Creative Village, a 68-acre mixed-use community anchored by the Electronic Arts (EA) headquarters and the downtown campuses for UCF and Valencia College. This innovation district is designed to blend residential, commercial, and educational spaces. Upcoming parcels within the developments in Downtown Orlando include plans for 185,000 square feet of new office space and around 180 hotel rooms. These projects offer prime opportunities for firms experienced in building modern office environments, multi-family housing, and integrated urban spaces.

Retail and Dining Complexes

New retail and dining projects are popping up to serve Orlando's growing population of residents and visitors. These developments focus on creating unique local experiences. For example, the Eola Food Hall is a planned 15,000-square-foot, two-story building that will feature a bar, a speakeasy, and numerous local food vendors. Similarly, the Bumby Arcade Food Hall will host up to 18 different food spots. These projects, while smaller in scale than the theme parks, are vital to the city's fabric and present consistent opportunities for contractors specializing in restaurant build-outs, commercial kitchens, and custom retail finishing.

How Much Is Being Invested in Orlando's Construction Boom?

The numbers behind Orlando's construction boom are staggering. We're not just talking about a few new buildings; we're looking at tens of billions of dollars being poured into the city's infrastructure, entertainment, and hospitality sectors. This level of investment signals a massive wave of opportunity for general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers who are ready to get in on the action. Let's break down where the money is coming from and the scale of the projects taking shape.

Universal's $7 Billion Epic Universe Investment

Universal is leading the charge with a colossal $7 billion investment in its new theme park, Epic Universe. Spanning a massive 750 acres, this project is a city in itself, requiring extensive infrastructure, vertical construction, and specialized trades. The development is projected to create over 17,000 jobs and generate an estimated $2 billion in revenue in its first year alone. For construction professionals, these groundbreaking developments represent a multi-year pipeline of high-value work, from initial site prep and utility installation to the final finishes on new attractions, hotels, and retail spaces. It’s a landmark project that will demand a wide range of expertise for years to come.

Disney's Multi-Billion Dollar Expansion Plans

Not to be outdone, Disney is planning to invest a jaw-dropping $17 billion into its Orlando operations over the next decade. While plans are still taking shape, this funding could support a potential fifth theme park and the addition of 13,000 new hotel rooms. The sheer scale of this investment points to long-term, large-scale projects perfect for GCs and subs specializing in hospitality and entertainment. The creation of an estimated 50,000 new jobs will also fuel demand for supporting infrastructure and housing, creating a ripple effect of new development projects across the region that will keep the construction industry busy for the foreseeable future.

MCO Airport's $1 Billion Expansion Budget

The city's gateway, Orlando International Airport (MCO), is also in the midst of a major overhaul with a $1 billion expansion budget. The goal is to modernize facilities to accommodate over 100 million passengers annually. This isn't just about adding gates; it's a forward-looking project that includes preparing for future transportation like flying taxis. For contractors, this means opportunities in heavy civil work, terminal construction, and specialized systems integration. It’s a critical infrastructure project that underscores the region's commitment to handling its explosive growth and provides a different type of opportunity outside the theme park sector.

Total Economic Impact Exceeding $50 Billion

When you add it all up, Orlando is seeing over $50 billion in new projects transforming its landscape. This incredible influx of capital goes far beyond the headlining theme park and airport expansions. It fuels a secondary boom in mixed-use developments, retail centers, multifamily housing, and the roadwork needed to connect it all. For firms looking to expand their footprint, the sheer volume of work presents a clear opportunity. The key is getting early visibility into this pipeline to build relationships and position your team for the right projects before they hit the open market.

Key Project Timelines and Completion Dates

Keeping track of project timelines is essential for identifying when and where your team can get involved. For general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, knowing the completion dates for major developments isn't just about scheduling—it's about strategic positioning. Orlando has a mix of fast-approaching deadlines and long-term developments, creating a steady stream of opportunities across every phase of construction. From theme park grand openings that require last-minute finishing touches to massive infrastructure overhauls that will need materials and labor for years, the city’s construction schedule is packed.

Understanding these key dates helps you plan your business development strategy. You can decide whether to pursue a finishing contract for a 2025 opening or focus on supplying materials for a project just breaking ground. By aligning your outreach with these milestones, you can position your company as the right partner at the right time, getting ahead of competitors and building relationships before the project even goes to public bid. Here’s a look at what’s on the horizon.

Major Openings and Milestones for 2025

Next year is shaping up to be a landmark year for Orlando, with several high-profile projects scheduled to open their doors. The main event is Universal's Epic Universe, a massive 750-acre theme park set to debut on May 22, 2025. This project includes over 50 attractions and the adjacent Universal Helios Grand Hotel.

Beyond the theme parks, downtown Orlando will welcome the Eola Food Hall in the fall. This two-story, 15,000-square-foot venue will feature a variety of local food vendors, a bar, and a speakeasy. These groundbreaking developments signal a busy year for final-phase construction and finishing work across the city.

Long-Term Development Schedules Through 2027

Looking further ahead, Orlando’s pipeline is filled with ambitious infrastructure projects that will create work for years to come. One of the most forward-thinking is a $650 million plan to build the first public highway in the U.S. capable of wirelessly charging electric vehicles, with an expected completion in 2027.

At the same time, the $2.5 billion renovation of the I-4 corridor continues to move forward, representing a decade-long effort to improve regional transportation. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is also in the midst of a billion-dollar infrastructure expansion to accommodate future growth, including the potential for flying taxis. These long-term Orlando development projects highlight the city’s commitment to sustained growth.

Spotlight: Universal's Epic Universe and New Resorts

It’s impossible to talk about Orlando’s construction boom without focusing on the main event: Universal's Epic Universe. This isn't just a new theme park; it's a massive, multi-faceted development that is creating a gravitational pull for construction projects of all sizes. Spanning a 750-acre site, this development is essentially a city within a city, requiring an incredible amount of infrastructure, specialized construction, and skilled labor. The project’s ripple effect extends beyond the park's boundaries, driving demand for new roads, utilities, and supporting commercial spaces.

For general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, the scale of this project presents a continuous stream of opportunities. From the foundational work and structural steel of the park’s attractions to the intricate theming and advanced technology required for the new hotels, the demand for high-quality work is immense. This single development is a powerful engine for the local construction industry, and understanding its key components is the first step to finding your place within it. Let’s look at the major projects that make up this new universe.

Epic Universe Theme Park (Opening May 2025)

The centerpiece of the entire development is, of course, the Epic Universe theme park itself. Set to open in May 2025, this park will feature five distinct lands and more than 50 attractions. The sheer scope of this project is staggering, involving the construction of massive show buildings, complex ride systems, and immersive environments. Each themed land—from Super Nintendo World to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic—demands unique architectural styles and specialized construction techniques. This variety creates a wide range of groundbreaking developments and opportunities for firms with expertise in everything from concrete and steel to custom fabrication and electrical work.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel

To complement the new park, Universal is building the luxurious Helios Grand Hotel. Positioned at the head of Epic Universe, this hotel is designed for a premium guest experience, featuring a private entrance directly into the theme park. For construction firms specializing in hospitality, this project is a significant opportunity. High-end hotels like the Helios Grand demand impeccable finishes, complex mechanical and electrical systems, and seamless integration with the surrounding entertainment environment. The project’s emphasis on stunning views and exclusive access points to a high-end build that requires precision and expertise in luxury construction.

Stella Nova and Terra Luna Resort Properties

Universal’s hospitality expansion doesn’t end there. The company is also developing two additional resort properties, Stella Nova and Terra Luna, both slated to open in 2025. These hotels add thousands of new rooms to the area and cater to different aesthetics, creating diverse opportunities for contractors and suppliers. Stella Nova will feature a modern, space-themed design, likely requiring contractors with experience in contemporary finishes and advanced technological integrations. In contrast, Terra Luna will have an earth-inspired theme, calling for expertise in natural materials, extensive landscaping, and creating serene outdoor spaces. Together, these new resort properties highlight the breadth of construction work flowing from the Epic Universe development.

Key Projects Transforming Downtown Orlando

While the theme parks get a lot of attention, Downtown Orlando is undergoing a massive transformation of its own. The city’s urban core is buzzing with activity, driven by a strategic push for revitalization that goes far beyond tourism. We’re seeing a wave of sophisticated, large-scale projects designed to create a vibrant, live-work-play environment. For general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, this boom represents a pipeline of diverse and high-value opportunities.

The focus is on creating a modern, connected city center. This includes everything from sprawling innovation districts that blend education and tech to trendy cultural venues and high-rise mixed-use towers. These aren't just standalone buildings; they're interconnected developments creating a new urban fabric. Getting in on these projects requires early intelligence and a deep understanding of the city's development plans. By tracking land development and permit activity, you can position your firm to build relationships and get specified long before the projects go to public bid. You can read some of our customer stories to see how other firms have found success in new markets.

The Creative Village Innovation District

One of the most ambitious projects is the Creative Village, a 68-acre "Innovation District" rising on the former site of the Amway Arena. This development is a masterclass in urban planning, designed to be a hub for technology, education, and modern living. Anchored by the headquarters for Electronic Arts (EA) and the downtown campuses for the University of Central Florida (UCF) and Valencia College, the project creates a unique ecosystem. The mix of commercial, educational, and residential spaces means a continuous need for a wide range of construction services, from high-tech office build-outs to student housing and public amenities. You can see more on the official Developments Downtown Orlando page.

Eola Food Hall and Cultural Venue Expansions

Reflecting a growing demand for unique local experiences, the Eola Food Hall is another exciting project adding to the downtown vibe. Located near the iconic Lake Eola, this 15,000-square-foot, two-story venue is set to become a culinary hotspot. It will feature a variety of local food vendors, a main bar, and even a hidden speakeasy. Projects like this require specialized trades for commercial kitchen installations, custom millwork, and high-end finishes. It’s a prime example of the smaller-scale but high-value opportunities emerging as part of the area's cultural expansion. These are the types of projects that can fly under the radar, but our Free Permits App can help you spot them as soon as the paperwork is filed.

New Mixed-Use Developments in the Urban Core

Beyond the marquee projects, Downtown Orlando is seeing a significant boom in new mixed-use construction. The skyline is actively changing with new office buildings, hotels, apartment complexes, and performance venues. This widespread development is creating a dense, walkable urban environment supported by new transportation centers. For construction professionals, this signals a sustained demand for services across the board. The sheer volume of simultaneous projects means there are countless opportunities to build relationships with developers and architects shaping the new downtown. Staying ahead in a market this active requires a proactive approach to business development, one that helps you identify and qualify these opportunities early.

Major Infrastructure and Transportation Upgrades

Beyond the theme parks and hotels, Orlando is investing heavily in the foundational infrastructure needed to support its rapid growth. These large-scale transportation projects are critical for moving millions of residents and tourists efficiently and sustainably, and they create a ripple effect of opportunity across the entire construction industry. For general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, these upgrades represent significant, long-term work that goes far beyond a single building. From earthwork and paving to complex electrical systems and station construction, these projects require a diverse range of expertise and a deep bench of skilled labor and materials. Getting involved in these foundational developments can solidify a firm's presence in the region for years to come, as successful execution often leads to more work on subsequent phases or adjacent private developments that spring up because of the new infrastructure. These are the kinds of projects that literally pave the way for future private development across the city, making them essential to track for any firm looking to establish a strong foothold in the Orlando market. Understanding the scope of these public works is the first step to identifying where your services will be needed most.

MCO Airport Passenger Capacity Expansion

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is preparing for a massive influx of travelers with an expansion project budgeted at over $1 billion. The primary goal is to increase the airport's capacity to handle more than 100 million passengers each year. This involves significant terminal and runway work, creating opportunities for firms specializing in large-scale civil and commercial construction. In a forward-thinking move, the expansion also includes provisions for future transportation tech like flying taxis. Tackling a project of this scale requires precise coordination, a challenge many successful construction firms have met by identifying key partners early in the process.

The Innovative Wireless Charging Highway

In a move that sounds like science fiction, Orlando is set to become home to the first public highway in the U.S. that can wirelessly charge electric vehicles as they drive. This groundbreaking initiative, with a price tag of $650 million, is a clear signal of the region's commitment to sustainable innovation. The project will require highly specialized electrical and civil engineering work to embed charging technology directly into the roadway. With an expected operational date of 2027, this project offers a unique chance for contractors to be part of a landmark development that will define the future of construction and transportation infrastructure.

Improved Transportation Connectivity

To better connect its key hubs, Orlando is developing a new train line between Orlando International Airport and Disney Springs. This transit project is expected to dramatically increase annual train ridership from one million to over six million people. The scope includes laying new track, constructing stations, and integrating the line with existing transportation networks. Such projects create a cascade of opportunities for subcontractors in everything from concrete and steel to signaling and systems installation. For suppliers, the demand for materials will be substantial and sustained throughout the project's lifecycle. Finding your place in these complex project pipelines is key to capitalizing on the region's growth.

What Challenges Could Impact These Projects?

While Orlando's construction pipeline is booming, it’s smart to go in with a clear picture of the potential roadblocks. Major projects of this scale are complex, and several industry-wide challenges could affect timelines and budgets. Staying aware of these issues can help you plan more effectively and position your team for success. From finding skilled workers to getting the right permits, here are the key hurdles to keep on your radar.

Labor Shortages and Supply Chain Concerns

It’s no secret that finding skilled labor is one of the biggest headaches in the industry right now. For projects in Orlando, this is a major factor to consider. As one report notes, "Construction contractors are facing ongoing challenges with higher costs, supply chain disruptions, and a tight labor market." This isn't just about filling spots on the crew; a shortage of experienced workers can slow down progress and impact the quality of work. At the same time, getting materials on-site in a timely and cost-effective manner remains a persistent issue. Proactive planning and strong relationships with material suppliers are essential to keep your projects on track.

Regulatory and Permitting Hurdles

Getting a project off the ground often means working through a maze of local regulations and permits. Orlando is no exception. The process can be slow and complicated, with potential for "site-specific restrictions, and access difficulty." These administrative delays can stall a project before you even break ground, creating a ripple effect on your entire schedule. This is where having early intelligence becomes a game-changer. Tools that help you track permit activity can give you a heads-up on what’s coming, allowing you to anticipate requirements and prepare documentation long before your competitors even know a project exists.

Environmental and Sustainability Requirements

Green building is more than just a buzzword; it’s a core component of modern construction. As sustainability standards become more stringent, they add another layer of complexity to project planning and execution. The industry is grappling with "increased environmental regulations, and sustainability requirements," which can influence everything from material selection to waste management protocols. These standards often require specialized knowledge and can impact both the project's budget and its timeline. Staying current on Florida's specific environmental codes and popular certifications like LEED will be crucial for any team looking to bid on and win these high-profile Orlando projects.

How to Find Your Next Opportunity in Orlando

With so much development happening, the biggest challenge isn't a lack of work—it's cutting through the noise to find the right projects for your business before your competitors do. While the headline-grabbing theme park expansions are exciting, they represent just a fraction of the commercial activity reshaping the city. The real advantage comes from identifying opportunities upstream, long before a public announcement is made.

Getting ahead means tracking the earliest signals of development, like land deals, rezoning applications, and initial permit filings. This proactive approach allows you to build relationships with developers and project owners when they are still defining the scope and selecting partners. Instead of reacting to bid lists, you can position your company as an essential part of the project from its earliest stages. This strategy is key to securing your place in Orlando's ongoing transformation and building a sustainable project pipeline.

New Openings for Construction Professionals

The construction boom in Orlando has created a surge in demand for skilled professionals, but it’s not without its hurdles. Firms are currently dealing with higher material costs, ongoing supply chain disruptions, and a competitive labor market. While these factors can seem daunting, they also create an environment where efficient, reliable, and well-prepared companies can truly shine. Firms that can effectively manage logistics and deliver on time and on budget are in a prime position to win high-value contracts. This market rewards professionals who are organized and can anticipate project needs, making early insight into a project's lifecycle more valuable than ever.

Long-Term Economic Benefits for Local Businesses

The massive investments in Orlando's commercial construction do more than just create short-term jobs; they plant the seeds for sustained economic growth. Each new development acts as a catalyst, increasing the local demand for materials, equipment, and specialized trade services for years to come. For subcontractors and suppliers, getting involved in these foundational projects can lead to long-term relationships with general contractors and developers. As these projects are completed, they create a ripple effect that strengthens the entire business community, ensuring a steady stream of opportunities. Successful firms have shown that building these strategic partnerships early is the key to long-term success.

Tapping into Orlando's Project Pipeline

To successfully win work in Orlando, you need a strategy that addresses common obstacles like site-specific restrictions and rising inflation costs. The most successful contractors are the ones who are proactive, not reactive. Waiting for a project to hit the open market means you’re already behind. The key is to identify private construction projects early by tracking indicators like title transfers and permit activity. This gives you the chance to connect with decision-makers months before the competition even knows a project exists. By understanding the local landscape and adapting your approach, you can position your business to capitalize on the city’s impressive growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can my company find out about these projects before they become public knowledge? The key is to track the earliest signals of development, long before a press release is issued. This means keeping an eye on things like major land sales, rezoning applications, and initial permit filings. These activities are the first indicators that a developer is serious about a project. By monitoring these upstream signals, you can identify opportunities and start building relationships with the key players months before your competitors even know a project exists.

Besides the major theme parks, what other types of construction are in high demand? While the theme parks are major drivers, Orlando's growth is creating a huge demand for other types of projects. The city is investing heavily in its urban core with mixed-use developments, modern office spaces, and unique dining venues like the Eola Food Hall. There are also massive infrastructure upgrades underway, including the airport expansion and innovative new highway projects. This means there are significant opportunities in everything from commercial and residential construction to heavy civil work.

Is this construction boom only for large GCs, or are there opportunities for subcontractors and suppliers too? There are absolutely opportunities for firms of all sizes. A multi-billion dollar project like Epic Universe relies on a massive network of specialized subcontractors and material suppliers to get the job done. From electrical and plumbing to interior finishing and landscaping, every phase of construction requires specific expertise. These large-scale developments create a ripple effect, generating a steady stream of work for specialty trades and suppliers throughout the region.

What are the biggest challenges I should prepare for when working in the Orlando market? Like any booming market, Orlando presents a few key challenges. Finding skilled labor remains a top concern for many contractors, and managing supply chain logistics is crucial to keeping projects on schedule. You should also be prepared for the local permitting and regulatory processes, which can sometimes cause delays if you're not ready for them. Proactive planning and building strong relationships with suppliers are your best strategies for managing these hurdles.

With projects like Epic Universe opening in 2025, is it too late to get involved? Not at all. A project's grand opening is just one milestone in a very long process. While major structural work may be complete, there are still countless opportunities for finishing trades, interior build-outs, landscaping, and site work leading up to the opening date. Furthermore, many of the city's largest infrastructure and development plans, like Disney's expansion and the I-4 renovation, have timelines that stretch for years, ensuring a steady pipeline of work well into the future.