By Jim Carchidi
August 25, 2026
Clermont City Council granted a Conditional Use Permit last week for a mixed-use project, proposed near an existing retail property by the central business district. Renderings show exterior designs, apartment floor plans, and concepts for a landscaped community space.
West End concepts
A site plan included with city meeting documents shows the new development with the current retail property to the left. Images courtesy of Coastal Investment Land Trust, Gian Lloyd Penaredondo
The development, proposed by Coastal Investment Land Trust, would occupy a space next to the West End Plaza retail center located at 821 W. Minneola Ave.
Four, three-story buildings would house a total of 5,686 square feet of first-floor commercial and retail space. Second and third floors would each offer two, one-bedroom rental units for a total of 16 between all four buildings. Living space per unit would be a minimum of 587 square feet.
The buildings would center around a landscaped courtyard - called The Court - with community access. The West End Plaza retail center will remain and is part of the site plan.
Preliminary floor plans detail four residential unit concepts. The ground level commercial space will be flexible to accommodate tenant needs.
A variety of designs are under consideration for The Court with benches, a veranda, and a trellised entry among the possible accents.
The project was previously approved by the Clermont Planning and Zoning Commission at its Aug. 4 meeting and developers have two years to move forward with construction before the Conditional Use Permit expires.
Community benefts
According to city documents, a settlement agreement between the city and property owner exempts the development from minimum parking requirements and a Community Benefit Agreement increases the base density of 25 dwelling units per acre to allow for the 16 rental units. In return, developers will offer three community benefits including the courtyard, public art installations, and sidewalk enhancements.
What's next
Formal plans will be submitted for review by the city’s Site Review Committee before permit applications can begin. No construction timeline has been noted.
Downtown parking
The approval comes as city leaders are looking into the addition of a parking garage in the central business district. A citizens advisory committee is evaluating lots at Seventh St. and Minneola Ave. and behind City Hall as possible locations.
The potential addition has received pushback from residents citing potential traffic issues and the negative visual impact of a garage in the city center. However, growth and private investments in downtown Clermont have created a need for additional parking.
The committee has been given 60 days to complete its review and present recommendations to the City Council.
Sponsor: The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group — the #1 real estate team in Orlando and the Official Real Estate Team of the Orlando Magic.
About the Author
Jim Carchidi is an Orlando journalist and photographer with previous work at the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Business Journal. He covers development, arts, culture, and local stories for The Orlando Real.
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