Sunday, March 29, 2026

Old Packing House redevelopment approved. 70-acre sports complex proposed. Thunderstorms likely Monday. Spring Fever in the Garden returns April 11.

Good Morning Winter Garden

Sunday, March 29, 2026

West Orange County, FL

Your daily dispatch from the heart of West Orange County.

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Winter Garden Approves Redevelopment of 'The Old Packing House'

The city has approved redevelopment of the historic citrus packing plant on Plant Street, setting a new course for one of downtown Winter Garden's most storied landmarks.

The Old Packing House, the landmark former citrus processing facility at the heart of Plant Street, has received city approval for redevelopment. The project represents a significant chapter in the ongoing evolution of downtown — even as nearby businesses face displacement from a separate building sale that has drawn community protests. Details on the project's scope and timeline are still emerging from the city's approval process.

City Weighs 70-Acre Mega-Sports Complex Proposal

Winter Garden is considering a proposal for a massive 70-acre sports complex that could dramatically expand recreational facilities in the city. Fox 35 →

2 Dead After Vehicle Plows Into South Apopka Home

A speeding vehicle crashed into a South Apopka home and sparked a massive fire, killing two people, authorities said. WFTV →

📣 This Week in Winter Garden

Storms likely Monday. Spring Fever returns April 11.

Today brings a chance of showers and gusty northeast winds — watch for slow conditions at the farmers market this morning. Thunderstorms are likely Monday with a 60% chance of precipitation through the evening. Skies clear mid-week ahead of a warm, sunny weekend. And mark your calendar: Spring Fever in the Garden is back April 11 and 12, with downtown roads closing for the annual festival.

Mon: Storms likely Apr 1: Water resumes Apr 11–12: Spring Fever

🌧 This Week's Weather

Winter Garden, FL · Mar 29 – Apr 2 · NWS Melbourne

Rain today · Storms likely Mon–Tue · Clear and warm mid-week · NWS Melbourne

Retired OCPS Leader to Run for School Board Chair

A retired Orange County Public Schools deputy superintendent has announced a run for school board chair, entering a race that shapes local education policy. Observer →

Winter Garden Moving Closer to Stricter E-Bike Rules

The city is advancing tighter regulations for e-bikes and electric scooters — a move that could affect riders on city streets and the West Orange Trail. Fox 35 →

Fresh Stop Bus Bringing Mobile Produce Market to Winter Garden

The Fresh Stop Bus, a mobile market offering affordable fresh produce, is coming to Winter Garden to improve food access for residents across the city. Observer →

Spring Fever in the Garden Returns April 11–12

The annual Spring Fever festival is back in downtown Winter Garden on April 11 and 12. Downtown roads will close for the event both days. City Alert →

Thousands Rally Across Central Florida Against Federal Policies

Demonstrators gathered across Central Florida Saturday as part of nationwide protests against the war and current federal government policies. WFTV →

Man Stabbed in Orange County; Investigation Underway

Orange County authorities are investigating after a man was found stabbed. Officials have not released details about the location or a suspect. WFTV →

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Reclaimed Water Service Resumes

Outage ends · Irrigation systems may be switched back on · city alert →

Holiday Office Closure — Normal Solid Waste Collection

City offices closed · Trash and recycling on regular schedule

Spring Fever in the Garden 🌸

Apr 11–12 · Downtown Winter Garden · Roads closed for annual festival · city alert →

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Fox 35 Orlando · WFTV Channel 9 · West Orange Observer · City of Winter Garden · NWS Melbourne · Mar 29, 2026

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