Orlando, FL — Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and District 5’s City Commissioner joined community members to celebrate the grand opening of the South Street Urban Farm, a newly reimagined sustainability hub in the heart of the city.

The event marked the official transformation of underutilized land into a thriving space for fresh, accessible produce, made possible through a network of local partnerships. Designed to serve as a model for urban agriculture and sustainable land use, the South Street Urban Farm reflects the city’s broader commitment to building resilient neighborhoods and advancing food equity.

During the celebration, Mayor Dyer and City of Orlando’s District 5 Commissioner helped plant the first seeds in a newly installed Block n’ Lock garden bed—an innovative, mortarless concrete system developed by a local designer. The system exemplifies Orlando’s investment in community-driven solutions and will soon feature a mural that honors the culture and history of the surrounding neighborhood.

The farm’s launch also highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen local food systems and reduce environmental impact. Among the farm’s sustainable features is an upcoming solar-powered composter, funded through a USDA cooperative agreement. Once installed, the composter will provide residents with access to nutrient-rich soil and serve as an important step toward a more sustainable future.

The grand opening event brought together residents, leaders, and advocates to celebrate progress and reaffirm Orlando’s commitment to innovation, equity, and environmental stewardship.

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