Historic Pine Hills Community on the Move: Pedestrian Safety Improvements, Beautification Efforts, a

Tamara Johnson never misses an opportunity to talk about the exciting things happening in Pine Hills. She’s so eager to spread the news that she often goes door-to-door in the community, encouraging residents and business owners to attend monthly meetings to engage, ask questions and learn. Johnson is passionate about this area of West Orange County for many reasons. With family residing in Pine Hills, she’s been a frequent visitor since childhood. Today, she’s the executive director of Orange County’s Pine Hills Neighborhood Improvement District, a position she’s held since 2023. “I do have a fondness for Pine Hills,” she said. “And now, I’m in a unique opportunity where I can make an impact. We want people to know that [Orange County] is here and we are committed to this community.” Over the past several years, Orange County has invested more than $67 million in Pine Hills, one of Orange County’s oldest and largest neighborhoods. Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening in Pine Hills: –Bicycle and pedestrian safety efforts – Four new sidewalks will be added in the next five years while 35 additional sidewalk projects are in the pipeline. Meanwhile, pedestrians and cyclists will see other changes in the community, including the addition of a 7-foot-wide dedicated bike lane from Colonial Drive to Silver Star Road. Pine Hills Road, located between Colonial Drive and Bonnie Brae Circle, will be reconstructed with a raised median. –Economic Development – The County is undertaking a major project to convert up to 93 parcels from septic tank to county sewer along Pine Hills Road from W. Colonial Drive to Golf Club Parkway. This project includes 70 percent commercial and 30 percent residential parcels within the project space. The utility improvements began in September 2024 and the project is scheduled for completion January 2026. This will create redevelopment opportunities along Pine Hills Road.