The City of Orlando has announced plans to request the release of federal funds for facility improvements at the Christian Service Center, located at 808 W Central Blvd. The city will submit a formal request to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on or after December 16, 2025.
The project involves $700,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for renovations at the center. Planned upgrades include reconstruction of the parking lot, replacement of the HVAC system, painting, installation of an irrigation system, and renovation of the Intake Center that serves homeless individuals seeking counseling and referrals. The parking lot overhaul will provide three ADA-accessible spots instead of one and aims to improve both safety and accessibility.
According to city officials, “the activity proposed is categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements.” The environmental review record can be accessed by the public during business hours at City Hall.
Public comments on the Environmental Review Record are being accepted until December 15, 2025. Comments should be submitted in writing to the City’s Housing and Community Development Department for consideration before moving forward with the request for funds.
Mayor Buddy Dyer certified that he consents “to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process” and confirmed that all related responsibilities have been met.
Objections regarding HUD’s release of funds or certification by the City can be filed within fifteen days following submission or receipt of the funding request. Valid objections must relate to specific regulatory issues such as incomplete certification or procedural errors as outlined in federal regulations. Objections should be directed to Alesia Scott-Ford, Field Office Director at HUD’s Jacksonville office; potential objectors are advised to confirm deadlines via email.