On Monday, the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners approved a $3 million partnership with the City of Kissimmee to acquire and renovate a former hotel, which will be transformed into a new affordable housing project.

The project, known as the Haven Project, will convert the Super 8 Hotel located at 1815 W. Vine Street in Kissimmee, into affordable housing that will consist of a mix of 40 emergency/bridge housing units and 80 apartment units. The project is expected to be fully open to residents in March of 2025. 

“With the rise in rental costs throughout the region, this project will address a critical need for the less fortunate in our community, who increasingly are unable to afford housing and basic living expenses,” said Osceola County Commission Chairwoman Viviana Janer. “This partnership with the City of Kissimmee will provide a lifeline for our residents who are in dire need of safe and affordable housing options.”

“I think we all recognize that a lack of affordable housing and homelessness extends beyond our city limits. We’re thankful Osceola County is contributing towards the purchase of the property and that they see and believe in the potential of the programs, housing options, and life-changing opportunities the City of Kissimmee will provide to those in need,” said Mayor Olga Gonzalez, City of Kissimmee.

The Haven Project will provide housing-focused, low barrier, non-congregate emergency bridge housing and affordable housing, as well as support services to those who are experiencing homelessness or are currently unhoused. The development will consist of a combination of emergency beds, studio apartments, and two bedroom/1 bathroom apartments to provide housing for very low, low and moderate income residents whose annual household income is at or below 80% of the area median income.

The first phase of the Haven Project includes 80 units, which are expected to be ready for occupancy by January 2024. The remaining 40 units are expected to be complete by March of 2025.

Interested parties can contact the City of Kissimmee for applications.