Commissioner Stuart – April 2018

by Rick · April 2, 2018

Commissioner Robert Stuart

April is a great time to live in Orlando! There are so many things to do, see and experience this month. I also wanted to update you on a few recent items that were passed at our March City Council meeting.

Council voted on an agreement that will help further those efforts growing our arts and culture scene and specifically our Mennello Museum of American Art, located in the wonderful Loch Haven Park area.

Thanks to a generous donation from Michael A. Mennello, and in honor of Marilyn L. Mennello, the museum will add several world-renowned American works of art to greatly enhance the collection of the museum – including 14 paintings and five sculptures permanently gifted- and an additional 20 works loaned long-term.

This generous donation also includes two legacy gifts, including a $1 million-dollar gift, and annual funding commitments from Mr. Mennello’s foundation to further support the work of the museum.

The Orlando City Council made some final changes to an agreement that will allow the disposition of land by the City along Mercy Drive to Ability Housing Company. Groundbreaking will take place this month and when complete in August of 2019, the development will bring 166 new multi-family units to the area with 50% for permanent supportive housing for the chronically homeless.

City Council also voted on an item that will expand the city’s bicycling infrastructure. Through the development and implementation of our 2008 bicycle plan, we’ve been able to make strategic investments, including expanding our trail network, creating more bike lanes, establishing a bike share program, and opening a mountain bike park.

In order to continue moving forward, building a safer and more convenient pedestrian network, we are beginning a comprehensive update to our bicycle plan this year to help guide us for the next decade.

Now on to events as April is a great time to enjoy all that our city has to offer.

April is Earth Month and the City of Orlando is hosting and participating in many events throughout the month, which allow residents to contribute in the effort to “Go Green.” Visit cityoforlando.net/greenworks for all the ways you and your family can get involved in the cause this month.

Lake Eola is a busy place in April! The weekend of April 7^th and 8th is the annual Spring Fiesta in the Park at Lake Eola. This year’s event once again showcases wonderful arts and crafts, great eats and a fun kids’ zone. Visit fiestainthepark.com for more details.

Then join the City of Orlando at Lake Eola on Saturday evening, April 7^th from 5-10 p.m. for our newest signature event, Orlando Sound Bites. This free concert on the Southeast Lawn will feature live music and food and drink from local Orlando restaurants. Visit cityoforlando.net/soundbites for more information.

On Thursday, April 12th the Annual IOA Corporate 5K evening race will be taking place around Lake Eola. This great annual event will benefit local charities such as the Parramore Kidz Zone and the Christian Service Center. For more information about how to sign up for this evening of fun and fitness, visit Track Shack’s website, trackshack.com.

April also brings evening movies back to Lake Eola. Enjoy an evening of fun family entertainment on the green on Friday, April 27^th with the popular animated movie, Coco. Activities begin at 6:30 p.m. and the movie starts after sunset. Visit cityoforlando.net/parks/movieola for all the upcoming movie listings.

Lots happening in the Audubon Park Garden District this month as well. On April 7^th, check out the District’s Garden Tour. Enjoy visiting gardens that are classically lush, to sustainable backyard habitats, urban “farmlettes,” tropical gems, and more. April 28^th is their Annual Kidfest event. This one-of a kind event gives kids (of all ages) a chance to learn what goes into running the many different businesses in the neighborhood. Do family yoga, learn organic gardening, make mini pizzas and much more. Visit apgardens.com for more information.

I appreciate all that our citizens do collectively to help our community to flourish. Thank you for your continued support and I look forward to seeing you around the district this spring.