Positively Osceola connected with influential community leaders, organizations, agencies, and businesses, inviting them to reflect on the achievements and challenges of 2024 while sharing their aspirations and goals for 2025. Among those offering valuable insights and a forward-looking vision was the City of Kissimmee.
As the City of Kissimmee reflects on its accomplishments, challenges, and vision for 2025, it remains committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents, driving economic development, and advancing sustainable initiatives. This year’s efforts addressed immediate needs while paving the way for a more prosperous and resilient community in the year ahead. Notable accomplishments include:
Ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents continued to be a top priority for the City of Kissimmee. The Kissimmee Fire Department earned accreditation from the Commission of Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), which reflects its commitment to providing reliable emergency services and maintaining high operational standards.
Recognizing the demand for affordable housing, the City advanced The Haven on Vine Project. Once complete, this initiative will provide 83 units dedicated to affordable housing and 40 units allocated for emergency and bridge housing, demonstrating the city’s ongoing efforts to address homelessness and housing affordability.
Investing in infrastructure and development remained a top priority. Flood prevention projects continued in vulnerable areas, aiming to protect residents and businesses from severe weather events. Significant funding was also allocated to enhance Kissimmee Gateway Airport’s safety and capacity, further positioning the City as a key economic hub. The opening of The Allen, a 312-unit apartment community, marked the first phase of a 20-acre revitalization in the Medical Arts District, with additional residential, commercial, and medical spaces planned for the future.
Small businesses were also a key focus, and the City Commission dedicated $1 million to support local entrepreneurs. This funding will continue to help businesses grow, contributing to job creation and boosting the local economy.
Improvements to community spaces played a key role in enhancing the quality of life for residents. Partnerships with the Orlando Magic and AdventHealth led to renovations to the Chambers Park Community Center, providing upgraded spaces for recreation and education. The City also launched a grant program to help renovate homes in historic districts to promote preservation and beautification within Downtown Kissimmee.
Expanding transportation options, the City continued to grow its Freebee on-demand service, providing residents with a free, eco-friendly way to travel within Downtown Kissimmee. This service improves connectivity, making it easier for residents to access businesses, public services, and community spaces.
Finally, Kissimmee’s dedication to sound financial practices earned it national recognition with the Triple Crown Award, which honors its transparency and excellence in financial management. This achievement reassures residents that their City operates with accountability and integrity.
“As we reflect on the progress made in 2024, the City of Kissimmee has made significant strides in key areas such as public safety, affordable housing, infrastructure, and supporting local businesses,” said Mike Steigerwald, City Manager of Kissimmee. “These efforts lay a strong foundation for continued growth in 2025. Together with the City Commission, our focus will remain on expanding these initiatives, completing vital projects, and delivering results that make a meaningful impact on our community.”
Plans for 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, the City of Kissimmee has outlined some of its top priorities for 2025:
The Haven on Vine Project will continue to be a central focus. Its final phase includes the development of the Emergency Service Center and Bridge/Emergency Housing, offering a significant number of new housing opportunities.
The City plans to invest in upgrades to public facilities, including constructing two new fire stations and the Lakeside Community Center, to enhance emergency response capabilities, improve service delivery, and provide more spaces for community activities.
Flood prevention initiatives will continue across vulnerable areas to ensure neighborhoods are better protected against severe weather events, furthering the City’s commitment to environmental resilience.
Economic development will remain a key focus, with initiatives designed to support small businesses, attract new industries, and create more job opportunities. These efforts will be critical in strengthening Kissimmee’s economy and ensuring long-term prosperity.
In 2025, resident engagement will be central to the City’s efforts. The city will expand community events and outreach initiatives, aiming to strengthen connections between residents and City projects, services, and staff while empowering the community to actively participate in shaping the future of Kissimmee.
Looking ahead, the City of Kissimmee remains committed to building a stronger, more connected community by prioritizing key initiatives that foster long-term growth and address the immediate needs of our residents.
“I know that the goal of the entire City Commission is to foster unity, support small businesses, and ensure that the growth of our City benefits everyone while preserving the unique charm of Kissimmee,” said Jackie Espinosa, City Mayor of Kissimmee. “I look forward to working closely with our residents, City staff, and the City Commission to build a stronger, more prosperous future for our community.”
To learn more about the City’s services, ongoing projects, and ways to get involved, visit kissimmee.gov.
