KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Kissimmee is ready to revamp what was once a thriving shopping center. On Tuesday night, city staff will present the commission with a proposal to redevelop the old Kmart and Big Lots site on West Vine Street.
“We see this project as a catalyst for additional development, to attract investment, to create jobs along the commercial corridor on Vine Street,” said David Rodriguez, Kissimmee’s economic development director.
[WATCH: Vine Street Community Redevelopment Area aims to balance growth with neighborhood character]
“The city acquired that property to come back to the market as part of an RFQ, to invite developers to submit proposals to have that property redeveloped,” Rodriguez said. “Has been underutilized and vacant for many years.”
The first place the Florendo family shopped when they moved to Kissimmee five years ago was Jason’s Best Asian Market, located on the lot next to the empty Kmart. Abraham Florendo tells News 6 he hopes to see the space reinvigorated.
“If they put up a residential establishment, it’ll be good for the community,” he said.
In July, Kissimmee requested proposals to redevelop the site. After reviewing submissions, the staff is recommending that the commission move forward with a plan by CapStrata and Hedrick Brothers Development.
[READ the redevelopment plan being considered]
Key features of the proposal include 630 new residential units, over 51,000 square feet of retail and commercial space and a 73,400-square-foot indoor sports facility to serve as an anchor destination.
Rodriguez believes this project aligns with Kissimmee’s redevelopment goals and community desires.
“The input of the community was that they wanted to see commercial development, mixed-use green areas, gathering places, public art, entertainment and also housing,” he said.
While the city begins the process, other residents like Ron are eager for a transformation.
[WATCH: Kissimmee changes tack as it runs out of land (from 2024)]
“Possibly a 24-hour gym. Something that keeps lights on and negative people out in a parking lot would be good,” he said.
If the commission approves the proposal tonight, city staff will enter negotiations with the developers. Once negotiations conclude, the plan will return to the commission for final approval.
“There is no timeline for that negotiation. This process is fluid. It could take weeks. It could take a couple of months, depending on the data points that are being discussed. But that is the next step.... then it comes back to city commission to authorize the Master Development Agreement, which is the agreement that actually kicks off the project and puts the project in motion,” Rodriguez explained.