Kissimmee City Hall building on its services

  • Work has started on the new wing at Kissimmee City Hall, which was built in its current configuration in 2000 to replace the original building from the 19th century. PHOTO/KEN JACKSON
    Work has started on the new wing at Kissimmee City Hall, which was built in its current configuration in 2000 to replace the original building from the 19th century. PHOTO/KEN JACKSON

Construction has taken flight at Kissimmee City Hall as the municipality is adding a new wing.

Evident by the large clearing and blue fencing in front of and behind the five-story building, the city has begun construction on the new Development Services’ building division addition, which also will include fire prevention services.

Construction began earlier this month.

“The addition will ensure we can continue to provide high quality service in out building division,” said Stephanie Bechara, spokesperson for the city. “Much of the demand comes from the high growth in our area we are seeing. We’re processing about 4,000 permits a year and anticipate moderate growth in the years to come.”

The new wing will provide public access to the building counter, additional offices and meeting spaces. It also will bring all building division personnel together into a one-stop location as staffers are currently spread out over three floors.

The wing will be 12,000 square feet, be built in front of City Hall and be physically connected to the tower. Public access will face Church Street. Internal connectivity from the wing to City Hall will only be for city staff. The city is adding the wing because, when City Hall was built, it wasn’t designed to accommodate any higher floors.

It will cost $8 million for design and construction, and will be funded through city permits and inspection revenue.

“Having an outfacing office dedicated to the building division will make it easier for developers, contractors and residents to do business with the city of Kissimmee,” Bechara said.

Construction is expected to be completed within 14 months, or in the fall of 2024.

“We always strive to be a community service agency so we hope having a space with its own lobby will be inviting to the public and make it easier for residents to pull permits and conduct business with us,” said Bechara.