Official release from Orlando City SC
The City of Orlando Board of Commissioners voted through the approval of funds for a new downtown, multi-purpose soccer stadium Monday afternoon in downtown Orlando.
The vote moves the club one step closer toward bringing a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise to Orlando, with the Orange County Commissioners vote on October 22 the final stage in completion of stadium funding.
"This is obviously a very big step toward our goal of bringing MLS," said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. "I am delighted to have the City behind us so we can now focus on the second vote that is only two weeks away."
Supporters came out to the event to show the support of the vote, which was unanimous among the six Commissioners and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. The vote approved the use of Tourist Development Tax (TDT) funds for multiple venues, including a soccer stadium.
"There are significant days in our community and this is one of them," said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. "Hopefully we have another one later this month."
The final step on funding for a stadium will occur on Tuesday, October 22, at the County Administration Building. Pending the County approval of the stadium plan, Orlando would be able to enter into final negotiations with MLS to award an expansion team to Central Florida.
The October 22 vote takes place at 201 S Rosalind Avenue at the County Administration Building. Parking is available around the building.
