A community built around five lakes is getting more attention as an attraction. It’s called West Lakes, and the hidden gem is getting a “lift.”
An area in downtown Orlando known as “The Communities of West Lakes” comprises the neighborhoods west of Parramore and east of Orange Blossom Trail and John Young Parkway.
An organization called Lift Orlando — which comprises residents, businesses and community leaders — knows that this is an area with a rich African-American history, including many residents who pushed through racial and economic inequality to achieve success in business and in life.
Sarah Elbadri works with Orange County as a housing specialist. She moved to West Lakes in Arlington about four years ago. “It’s super-walkable and bikeable.”
On a recent day, Elbadri hopped on her bike and rode down to Clear Lake. Her boyfriend drove behind her with an inflatable paddleboard, one of her favorite things to use in the water. “This is, like, one of the best lakes in Orlando,” Elbadri claims. “It’s actually a Florida Fish and Wildlife ‘Fab 5’ lakes in the state.” After drying off, she continued her short ride to a new business called 3TWO8. It’s a high-end sneaker joint. “I just had ice cream, I went paddleboarding, and now I’m going to buy some shoes!”
The Heart of West Lakes Wellness Center is under construction right now next to Clear Lake. It will have a restaurant, health care center, fitness and well-being centers, and more. The whole thing is owned and operated by Lift Orlando.