The Kissimmee City Commission has unanimously approved a Master Development Agreement with Azure Hotel International, Inc., paving the way for a $180-million+ redevelopment of its current Civic Center site into a luxury hotel and a state-of-the-art convention center.
The project will replace Kissimmee’s existing Civic Center with a 10-story, 300-room luxury hotel—part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio—and will include restaurants, a rooftop pool and bar, spa facilities, retail space, and direct shuttle service to Kissimmee Gateway and Orlando International airports. In addition, it will create a new south-end public trail that connects with adjacent developments. Final completion is slated for 2029.
Under the agreement, Azure will deliver:
- A new 45,000-sf convention center, constructed with no public debt, with designated days reserved for city and community use at no cost.
- A guaranteed annual lease payment of $2.5 million, with yearly escalators, ensuring the city’s contributions are recouped within five years.
- A 5% profit share of the hotel’s net operating income, along with access to meeting space at no cost to the City.
- Strong performance and completion security, protecting taxpayers and guaranteeing project delivery.
Economic Impact
The development is projected to generate $5–6.5 million annually in property taxes, create 400 construction jobs, and provide between 150–250 permanent hospitality jobs for local residents.
In a media announcement, Mayor Jackie Espinosa praised the agreement as a historic win for Kissimmee:
“This project represents a generational investment in our community. With Azure Hotels, we are gaining not only a world-class convention center and luxury hotel, but also long-term economic growth, good-paying jobs, and a stronger, more vibrant downtown. Azure has been a true partner—responsive, collaborative, and genuinely excited about Kissimmee’s future. Tonight’s vote secures a brighter tomorrow for our residents and businesses.”
Azure Hotels also stated the following:
“We are honored to partner with Kissimmee on this transformative project. From the beginning, the City has been clear about its priorities, and we are proud to have crafted a plan that meets those needs while celebrating Kissimmee’s unique character. We look forward to delivering a destination that the community can be proud of for decades to come.” More info: kissimmee.gov.
Destination and planning information: experiencekissimmee.com.
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