OUC—The Reliable One has become the first sponsor of the Orlando Economic Partnership’s (OEP) new Development Initiative for Regional Transformation (DIRT). The initiative aims to expand the number of development-ready commercial and industrial sites across the Orlando area, from early-stage parcels to properties ready for construction.
DIRT seeks to enhance the region’s ability to attract business investments by evaluating, advancing, and marketing sites at every stage of readiness. The program also brings together state and utility-led site-readiness efforts under a unified regional strategy.
Linda Ferrone, OUC’s Chief Customer & Marketing Officer, stated: “As a municipal utility, our role extends beyond providing reliable electric and water services – we’re stewards of our community’s long-term prosperity.” She added: “Supporting DIRT reflects this commitment. When the region grows, our customers thrive, and by helping shape sustainable development, we’re building the infrastructure and opportunities that will benefit families and businesses for generations.”
DIRT launched in spring 2025 with OEP gathering partners, investors, and experts. With assistance from Leotta Location and Design, OEP’s economic development team is reviewing properties in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties using more than 150 variables. So far, over 127 sites have been identified.
Tim Giuliani, President and CEO of OEP said: “OUC’s support sends a strong signal to businesses and site selectors nationwide: when investors come to Orlando, they will find sites that meet their needs — and a region ready to deliver.” He continued: “Our goal is to pinpoint five that can move to site development with a focus on zoning, utilities and other early-stage processes.” Giuliani also noted: “The Orlando region aims to build a robust pipeline of strategic industrial and commercial sites laying the groundwork for new jobs, capital investment, diversified industries, and long-term economic resilience.”
For more information about DIRT visit Orlando.org/DIRT or contact Laureen Martinez at 407-242-3982.
OUC serves as Central Florida’s statutory municipal utility commission. It provides electric, water, chilled water, lighting and solar services to more than 400,000 accounts in Orlando as well as St. Cloud and parts of unincorporated Orange and Osceola counties. The utility has committed to achieving net zero CO2 emissions by 2050 while continuing its focus on conservation initiatives.
The Orlando Economic Partnership brings together leaders from various sectors with the aim of driving investment in the region. Its stated vision is for Orlando to become a global creative capital.
