In addition to infrastructure and technology, communication with residents is key. After Hurricane Ian, the city worked with its utility provider to create a new system that sends alerts to residents via email or phone. “We now have the phone numbers and emails for every power account holder in the city,” Blake shares. This enables the city to provide timely updates on evacuations, shelter locations, and recovery efforts, ensuring that residents are informed and safe using information that ensures the reach of tens of thousands of households that wouldn’t have typically received or signed up for general communication with the city. Blake also highlights the city’s proactive approach to communicating with the community ahead of disasters. “Public information is one of the most critical aspects of a disaster,” he explains. Kissimmee’s strategy involves giving residents clear and consistent updates throughout a disaster, setting expectations for when they will receive new information. This level of transparency builds trust and ensures the community feels supported and informed throughout the recovery process.
Strengthening Infrastructure for a Resilient Future
Kissimmee’s approach to resilience is not just about surviving the next disaster — it’s about thriving in the face of long-term challenges. The city is currently developing a master stormwater plan to address the increased risks posed by rapid development and climate change.
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