Osceola County approves $1 million in funding for new multi-purpose soccer stadium

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Osceola County Board of Commissioners voted on Monday night in support of $1 million in funding towards the proposed new Orlando City SC multi-purpose soccer stadium. Osceola County’s support follows support received for the project from Orange County, City of Orlando and Seminole County and further demonstrates the significant economic impact the stadium is expected to provide the entire Central Florida region.

The proposed new multi-purpose soccer stadium will represent a public-private partnership with Orlando City SC ownership agreeing to commit over $110M in private funds for the new stadium and Major League Soccer expansion fees.

As part of the agreement reached with Osceola County, Orlando City SC agreed to create youth soccer-related outreach programs located around Osceola County. These programs will take place at County soccer facilities and will also include after-school activities and free soccer clinics.

The club announced earlier in the month the Lions will play the 2014 USL PRO season in Osceola County at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Over the past three seasons, the club has called the Florida Citrus Bowl home, but that venue will be unavailable in 2014 due to construction. Orlando City has made a six-figure investment in additional seating and improvements at the complex, creating an intimate environment for the 2014 season.

“Tonight’s vote by Osceola County further demonstrates that bringing Major League Soccer to Central Florida will generate a positive impact throughout the region,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “We are thrilled to be playing our 2014 regular season home games in Osceola County at ESPN Wide World of Sports, and we look forward to participating in many more years of additional soccer-related community programs aimed at Osceola County youth.”