BUILT AMERICA MAGAZINE | MARCH 2025

Visitors and residents alike are drawn to Osceola’s winding waterways, perfect for airboat adventures that glide through quiet marshlands where alligators bask in the sun. Bald eagles soar overhead, while herons and egrets wade through the shallows, creating a wildlife experience unlike any other. The county’s commitment to preserving these natural wonders ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy the untouched beauty of Florida’s heartland. Protecting these natural assets is a priority for the county, ensuring that growth does not come at the cost of environmental preservation. A Proactive Approach to Infrastructure

BILL LITTON | EMERGENCY MGMT DIRECTOR

With Florida’s susceptibility to hurricanes and extreme weather, Osceola County takes a proactive approach to infrastructure development. New construction projects are carefully planned with flood prevention and climate resilience in mind. “As we continue to grow, we are constantly evaluating the placement of critical infrastructure,” says Litton. “One of our biggest successes has been the deployment of flood mitigation barriers in vulnerable areas. Before Hurricane Milton, we identified key locations—such as hospitals and lift stations—that could be at risk, and we installed protective barriers ahead of time. Fortunately, they weren’t needed, but having them in place was an important safeguard.”

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