A section of Orange County’s famed International Drive could soon honor the late hotel mogul and philanthropist Harris Rosen.

Two Central Florida state lawmakers have introduced a bill to designate the stretch of the tourist corridor between State Road 528 and Sand Lake Road as “Harris Rosen Way.” This portion of I-Drive includes several Rosen hotels.

Rosen, the founder of Florida’s largest independent hotel chain and one of Orlando’s most prominent charitable donors, died Nov. 25 at the age of 85.

“Mr. Rosen was a remarkable role model for the Central Florida community,” state Sen. Kristen Arrington, D-Kissimmee, one of the bill’s sponsors, said in a statement. “Through his dedication and unwavering work ethic, he embodied the pursuit of the American Dream, inspiring others along the way.”

The tribute is a way to “carry on his remarkable legacy,” said state Rep. Rita Harris, D-Orlando, who sponsored the bill in the Florida House.

Legislative designations are for honorary purposes and do not require local governments and private entities to change street signs or mailing addresses, according to state law. The Florida Department of Transportation would erect markers, attaching Rosen’s name to I-Drive.

Rosen launched his hospitality empire in 1974 with the purchase of a 256-room Quality Inn on I-Drive. Over the years, Rosen Hotels & Resorts expanded to include seven properties with more than 6,300 rooms, employing over 4,000 people.

Beyond his business achievements, Rosen is remembered for his philanthropic endeavors, such as funding free preschool education and offering college and vocational scholarships to children in the Tangelo Park and Parramore neighborhoods.

The designation would be a “tremendous honor” and an “extraordinarily fitting testament to how he lived: with determination, heart, and always his way,” Rosen’s daughter, Shayna Potier, said in a statement.

“Harris Rosen Way will serve as a powerful reminder of his legacy and lifelong credo to do the right thing, further etching his indelible mark into his beloved local community,” she said.

Rosen Hotels & Resorts is now under the leadership of CEO Frank Santos, a longtime Rosen associate who ruled out a sale of the company and vowed to carry on its founder’s vision.

The bill will be considered during the Florida Legislature’s regular 60-day session, which begins in March.