Orlando Metro Section of APA Florida

Spring 2026 UCF URP Distinguished Lecture - Foundations of Community Building

Thursday, April 2, 2026
UCF Downtown Dr Phillips Academic Commons
5 - 6 pm networking
6 - 8 pm lecture and Q&A

For the Spring 2026 UCF Urban and Regional Planning Distinguished Lecture Series, the topic will be Fundamentals of Community Building, presented by Nilsa Zacarias, AICP.

Please join this event on Thursday, April 2, 2026. The evening will start with a networking reception from 5-6 pm, followed by the lecture and audience Q&A 6-8 pm.
This event will take place at the UCF Downtown Dr. Phillips Academic Commons, Room 106 (500 W. Livingston St., Orlando, FL 32801).

Please register for this event by going to https://ucf.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6x1KSNBSildCJuu

Spring 2026 UCF URP Distinguished Lecture - Foundations of Community Building

Thursday, April 2, 2026

5 - 6 pm networking

6 - 8 pm lecture and Q&A

For the Spring 2026 UCF Urban and Regional Planning Distinguished Lecture Series, the topic will be Fundamentals of Community Building, presented by Nilsa Zacarias, AICP.

Please join this event on Thursday, April 2, 2026. The evening will start with a networking reception from 5-6 pm, followed by the lecture and audience Q&A 6-8 pm.
This event will take place at the UCF Downtown Dr. Phillips Academic Commons, Room 106 (500 W. Livingston St., Orlando, FL 32801).

Please register for this event by going to https://ucf.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6x1KSNBSildCJuu

Don't miss this upcoming FREE webinar on AI and Planning at noon on Thursday, April 16, 2026!

Nilsa Zacarias, AICP, Matthew Veneziano, and Santiago Cleves with Chen Moore and Associates will present this webinar for Orlando Metro Section - APA Florida!

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is enhancing planners’ ability to create cutting-edge graphics with unprecedented efficiency. This session will present different software that leverage AI to maximize flexibility and streamline extraordinary 3D renderings for master plans and presentations. We will share step-by-step commands to implement AI to provide an understanding of this innovative tool.

Attendees will gain valuable insights into AI implementation, from advanced rendering techniques to communication tools for public engagement. Join us for a discussion on how planners are integrating AI into their workflows, the opportunities it presents, and the challenges of adopting this transformative technology in everyday practice.

Register for this webinar here: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/5707514735270400854
Or bit.ly/AIplanningFrontier

Need a break outdoors and in nature? Check out Magnolia Park on Lake Apopka as well as the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive!!

Walking, bird watching, fishing, gators, boating, kids playground, peacocks, camping, and more!!

Last night, the Orlando Metro Section of American Planning Association Florida Chapter had the pleasure of hosting a dynamic Law and History Overview for Planners at UCF Downtown.

A big thank you to Owen Beitsch, PhD, FAICP, CRE, for delivering an engaging and insightful deep dive into the legal foundations and historical evolution that continue to shape planning practice today.
Attendees came ready to learn — some preparing for the AICP Exam, others strengthening their professional foundation — and the discussion reflected a strong commitment to advancing planning knowledge in our region.

We’re grateful to everyone who joined us for an evening of professional growth, thoughtful conversation, and connection. More opportunities to learn together are on the way!



ProfessionalDevelopment

SAVE THE DATE: Art, Music, & Magic in Windermere

Get ready to celebrate 11 years of creativity! The Windermere Fine Art Show is back and more vibrant than ever. Join us in beautiful downtown Windermere for a weekend dedicated to the arts.

With over 95+ incredible artists, live music, delicious food, and captivating performing arts, there is something to inspire everyone.

The best part? Admission is FREE, and your furry friends are welcome (on a leash)!

Windermere Town Hall | 520 Main St. Saturday, Feb 28 (11 AM - 6 PM) Sunday, March 1 (10 AM - 5 PM)

The parking expansion project is expected to be completed by mid-May, weather permitting.

🚲⚡ Join Us This Saturday for an E-Bike Safety Course + Community Ride! ⚡🚲

Bike/Walk Central Florida is proud to partner with the Brevard County Sheriff's Office, Florida (Official), A1A Beach Rentals and Outdoor Center, and the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization for a free E-Bike Safety Class this Saturday at the Cape Canaveral Community Center.

Whether you already ride or you’re thinking about getting an e-bike, this class will cover:
✔️ Essential safety tips
✔️ Local laws
✔️ Riding etiquette for shared spaces

🪖 Free helmets with professional fittings (first-come, first-served)
☕ Complimentary beverages & snacks

📍 Cape Canaveral Community Center
🗓 Saturday, February 28 | 10:00 – 11:00 AM

After the course, A1A Outdoors will host a community bike ride, giving participants a chance to get out on the road and put those skills into practice together. https://www.facebook.com/events/1981631465899193/

We’d love to see you there as we continue empowering people to ride safely and confidently across Central Florida. 💛