Original Article posted by the Orlando Business Journal
By Ryan Lynch – Staff Writer, Orlando Business Journal

McAdams, a North Carolina-based design and engineering firm, is deepening its presence in Florida with the opening of a new office in downtown Orlando.

The expansion follows its recent merger with Palm Harbor-based Avid Group LLC and marks McAdams’ second Florida location. The new office, located at 333 S. Garland Ave., Suite 1300, officially opens Sept. 22.

The move positions McAdams closer to key clients and talent in the region, while also signaling the firm’s long-term commitment to growth in Central Florida. The company plans to hire 15–20 professionals in civil engineering, planning and design, and geomatics.

McAdams targets growth in Orlando’s urban core

Previously located in Lake Mary, McAdams’ move to downtown Orlando reflects a strategic shift toward proximity and visibility.

“Moving to a new downtown Orlando office space is an exciting next step for us,” said Charlie Potter, market lead for Tampa and Orlando. “It puts McAdams right where the action is, close to our clients, our partners and some of the best talent in the region.”

The firm has been working to establish a foothold in Florida for the past three years and now operates more than 11 offices nationwide with a workforce of over 550 employees.

Downtown Orlando sees uptick in professional services investment

McAdams joins a growing list of professional services firms investing in downtown Orlando.

AIA Orlando and the Orlando Foundation for Architecture are collaborating to launch the Orlando Center for Architecture & Design within the Fulcrum Building at 150 N. Orange Ave. The center, expected to open in 2026, will serve as a hub for design dialogue, public education and industry resources.

“Having a space where design is not only appreciated but becomes a catalyst for dialogue, connection and impact has been a long time coming,” said Debra Lemons, chair of the Orlando Foundation for Architecture.

Orlando office market shows signs of stabilization

Downtown Orlando’s office market is showing signs of resilience.

According to Cushman & Wakefield’s Q2 2025 report, the area posted a 15.7% average office vacancy rate, lower than the metro average of 16.8%. Leasing activity added more than 41,000 square feet of net occupancy during the quarter, improving from the year-ago period’s 17% vacancy rate.

However, leasing volume in the central business district totaled 182,100 square feet in the first half of the year, marking a 48.2% drop compared to the same period in 2024. The average lease rate downtown stands at $31.85 per square foot, above the market average of $27.52.