PHOTOS: Horizon West Regional Park groundbreaking

Ground was officially broken on the Horizon West Regional Park Thursday, Feb. 15. 

The park sits on 215.25 acres at Hamlin Groves Trail and Mann Road in Horizon West and will include a plethora of amenities, such as an indoor and outdoor performance area, tennis and pickleball courts, baseball and softball fields, and multi-purpose fields.

The groundbreaking event was heavily attended by residents, community leaders, and Orange County staff members and officials. 

Parks and Recreation Manager Matt Suedmeyer welcomed guests before turning the floor over to the Bridgewater Middle School chorus who sang the National Anthem. 

Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings and District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson both shared words before welcoming staff members and ambassadors from the West Orange Chamber of Commerce to help scoop the dirt.

“Horizon West Regional Park opened in December 2010,” Demings said. “On that cold day in December, the previous county administration and mayor at that time talked about the potential of this 215-acre space. We all know the saying: ‘Good things come to those who wait.’ So, we are getting to that point. The best is yet to come. I’m proud to be here today with the board’s support of a $15.6 million park investment. Just like you, we look forward to starting the construction very, very soon.”

Wilson said the park has been long awaited and heavily anticipated. 

“Every phase and everything that was done here was driven by the community, and (the) community surveys really gave us a path forward in making sure the decisions were made (that) the community were looking for here,” she said. “As you all know, a community identity is very much tied to its park space, and parks like this one signify a community that believes in health and wellness, environmental beauty, and family activity. … I hope for years and years and years to come that our community members come here, create memories, feel the joy and peace …”