Winter Garden

Introduction

General Overview

Originally incorporated in 1903, Winter Garden was largely an agricultural community, known for its vast citrus industry. Several winter freezes in the 1970′s and 1980′s along with the opening of Walt Disney World, changed the nature of the city’;s economy. Although vestiges of the citrus industry still remain, today the city’;s Economic Development Department is targeting new businesses in the digital media, software and hardware, and medical industries.

LOCATION & POPULATION:

Winter Garden, located in western Orange County along the southeastern shore of Lake Apopka, is about 14 miles from downtown Orlando. Nearby cities include Oakland, Apopka, Windermere, Ocoee and Monteverde. Along with the housing boom of the early 2000′;s, Winter Garden experienced a corresponding population explosion growing to an estimated 28,670 in 2007… .a +90.4% change since 2000.

Winter Garden Village at Fowler Groves is an open-air shopping center designed to enhance the community of Winter Garden. Winter Garden Village offers shopping and gathering opportunities to fit everyone’;s needs. From department stores to electronics to a health club and specialty retailers, along with the wide array of restaurants and eateries, visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences here.

After-Hours Numbers – Dial 911 for Police/Fire/Medical Emergencies

Broken Pipes/Water Emergencies: In partnership with the City of Winter Garden, several non-profit organizations produce annual events attracting visitors to the area.