Construction (finally) begins at old Crown Motel on U.S. 192
After over a year of working through the business and construction processes of a building project, Hope Partnership announced last week that construction has officially begun on Thrive Studios, an affordable housing project at U.S. Highway 192 and Armstrong Avenue on the site of the former Crown Hotel.
“After facing unforeseen delays, this milestone marks significant progress in addressing housing affordability in Osceola County,” the coalition dedicated to finding all Osceola County residents a safe place to call home said. Thrive Studios represents more than just a place to live— it’s a place where neighbors can rebuild, dream, and thrive.”
Hope Partnership closed on the sale in October 2023.
“When we started this work, I fully believed we had enough housing in this community. But 10 years ago … was very, very different,” Hope Partnership CEO Rev. Mary Downey said at the time. “The reality set in in about 2016 that there was a critical housing shortage, and things had to change.
“We didn’t want to just talk or complain about it. We wanted to provide a solution, and tell the community we’d put our work toward this type of project.”
The project is a conversion that will turn the out-purposed hotel into 32 affordable studio apartments. Those earning at or below 60% of the area median income will be eligible. The anticipated completion date is spring 2026.
“This initiative extends beyond housing; it is a commitment to rebuilding lives, reigniting aspirations, and restoring hope,” Downey said. “Despite earlier supply chain and permitting delays, Hope Partnership’s commitment to this transformative vision has remained unwavering.”
Funding for Thrive Studios came from government appropriations and entities: $1.75 million dedicated by U.S. Rep. Darren Soto (D-Kissimmee), a $1 million award from Osceola County, $500,000 in additional American Rescue Funds by County Commissioner Cheryl Grieb, $500,000 from the State of Florida via State Rep. Kristen Arrington, and a $1 million loan from the Florida Community Loan Fund.
“This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and perseverance,” said Reverend Mary Lee Downey, Founder and CEO of Hope Partnership. “We believe that everyone deserves a safe place to call home, and Thrive Studios will be a place where people can find security, dignity, and hope for the future.”
