Altamonte Springs
More than 20 years ago, the City of Altamonte Springs created a vision for Uptown Altamonte. Developing an upscale urban lifestyle around Cranes Roost Lake has been the City’s highest priority over the last two decades. Uptown Altamonte is now a reality.
Visible from I-4 in Central Florida, and positioned on 25 acres that encompass the scenic waterfront of Cranes Roost Lake, Uptown Altamonte is a truly unique destination offering carefree living, convenient shopping, offices and an enviable collection of places to eat, drink and be entertained. More information can be found here: www.uptownaltamonte.com
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Apopka
The 1998 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Commercial Revitalization program began with an award of $750,000 for the downtown CRA District. This grant provided funding for new sidewalks, underground utilities, trees and facade renovations. More than 14,436 lineal feet of new sidewalks were installed, which included brick stamp inlay on 5' of every 15 LF. Underground utilities (electric, cable & phone) was also completed, thus eliminating overhead lines, and the underground electric provided service to 253 new decorative light fixtures. Landscape improvements consisted of 72 new trees, shrubs and grass throughout the project area. As part of the CDBG application process, the Facade Renovation Grant Program (FRGP) was established to give assistance to existing businesses. The FRGP grants were available for up to $5,000 per store front, which resulted in nine business renovations. In addition, seven businesses were funded by the CRA.
The CDBG program leveraged improvements by the State DOT which included three new intersections, traffic lights, pedestrian cross walks. In addition, street repaving included portions of Main Street, Central Ave., 4th Street and 5th Street. The 1998 CDBG program resulted in more than 2.4 million dollars in improvements. The 2001 CDBG program was awarded $750,000. This program has resulted in 13,379 lineal feet of new sidewalks with brick stamp inlays; underground utilities which supply electric for 215 new decorative lights; two facade renovations using the FRGP; and, more than 50 new Washintonia Palms were installed on Central Ave., 6th Street and 7th Street. In addition, more than 13 overhead lines are also planned to be placed underground on Park Ave. and Main Street. The 2001 CDBG program has resulted in more than 1.2 million dollars in improvements.Total improvements resulting from Apopka's CDBG programs: $3,600,000
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Boynton Beach
The Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has teamed up with developer Cornerstone Group to include affordable housing at The Preserve, a new master-planned luxury condominium and townhome community under construction in Boynton Beach.
Through the joint financing effort, income-eligible buyers can qualify for as much as $160,000 in financial assistance on a condo or townhouse. With up to $60,000 developer contributions, up to $50,000 in funds from the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (S.H.I.P.), and another potential $50,000 from the CRA’s Homebuyer’s Assistance Program, the price on a $279,990 three-bedroom condo can be reduced to as low as $119,990.
“The Boynton Beach CRA is intensely committed to pursuing every opportunity to create affordable housing in our community,” said CRA Chairman Henderson Tillman. “With our Homebuyer’s Assistance Program and partnerships with developers like Cornerstone Group, we’re removing some of the obstacles that Boynton Beach residents face as they try to get out of rentals and into homeownership.”
Located at 1801 NE 4th Street, The Preserve will have 180 two and three-story townhouses and condos at market rate prices ranging from $279,000 to $299,000. There will be 50 units set aside as affordable housing for people who meet certain income guidelines. Applicants’ income cannot exceed 120 percent of Palm Beach County’s median household income relative to family size. For a family of four,that would be $77,280.
“In today’s high-priced housing market, middle income workers like teachers, police officers, and nurses are often frozen out of homeownership opportunities that offer an excellent quality of life for them and their families,” observed Tillman. “The Preserve is an example of what is possible when developers and local leaders work together to find solutions to critical issues like the affordable housing shortage.”
Designed around a park-like setting, The Preserve’s condos and townhouses range from 1,398 to 1,994 square feet in two-and-three bedroom models. The project’s amenities include a decorative entry into a gated community, clubhouse and pool, and children’s tot lot.
For financing qualification information, call Barbara Sanford, The Preserve sales manager, at 1-866-740-3111 or 561-706-3525. For more information on The Preserve, visit the on-site office at 1801 NE 4th Street (south of Gateway Blvd.), Boynton Beach, or log on to www.preserveboyntonbeach.com. To apply for homebuyer’s financial assistance, call the Boynton Beach Faith Based Community Development Corp. at 561-752-0303. For more information on homebuyer’s assistance, log on to www.boyntonbeachcra.org and click on “What’s New.”
Cornerstone Group is a Coral Gables-based developer that has built more than 16,000 apartment and condominium units throughout Florida.
The Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is committed to serving the community by guiding redevelopment activities and stimulating economic growth within its 1,650 acre district. The organization focuses on creating a vibrant downtown core, providing affordable housing, and revitalizing neighborhoods. For more information on the CRA, its events and activities, call (561) 737-3256 or visit www.boyntonbeachcra.org.
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Casselberry
Casselberry Wins Brownfields Grant from the U.S. EPA
In October of 2009, the City submitted a package to the US EPA Brownfields Program for a community-wide assessment grant requesting federal funds in an amount of $400,000 (contamination testing of $200,000 – hazardous substances & $200,000 – petroleum). In April 2010, the City was awarded two community-wide assessment grants! These grants will support the City’s efforts to assess and remediate environmental contamination throughout the City in an effort to enhance human health, the environment, and the economic vitality of the area. There were specific criteria that needed to be met to be eligible for these grants such as: Community Need, Project Description and Feasibility of Success, Community Engagement and Partnerships, and Project Benefits. The City of Casselberry was fortunate to have the support of its community members while applying for this grant. Numerous pledges of assistance were received by community based organizations having pledged supportive roles in the City’s program. They provided written letters of support expressing these sentiments. The City proposed in its submittal a three year timeframe in which to complete the assessment portion of its Brownfields program.
On May 5, 2010, all Region 4 awardees participated in a Brownfields Application and Work Plan Review Webinar. Forms required such as application for federal assistance, budgeting information, assurance: non-construction programs, certification regarding lobbying, narrative work plans, and key contacts were discussed in detail. A project officer from the U.S. EPA will be assigned to the City’s grant and be their point of contact for questions and assistance.
By June 1st of this year, the City needs to have all required forms and a work plan submitted to the U.S. EPA. This work plan will show a budget and activities proposed to be completed within the next three years. This work plan may be adjusted by 10% as the environmental work gets underway. If an adjustment above 10% is needed, it has to go to U.S. EPA for review and approval.
A complete inventory of regulatory sites within the City will be conducted, funneled down by level of perceived constraint, as well as redevelopment and job growth potential.
The Project Officer from the U.S. EPA will contact City staff to set-up an initial meeting. Upon doing so, the City will host a “kick off” meeting to introduce the Project Officer from the United States Environmental Protection Agency to the community as well as establish a strong rapport with them. It is a great benefit to have community support at this meeting.
This grant will greatly assist the City’s efforts with assessing and remediating environmental contamination throughout the City. For more information, contact Pamela K. Lynch, Economic Development Coordinator, City of Casselberry, (407) 262-7700 Ext. 1107 or plynch@casselberry.org
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Charlotte County
Charlotte Harbor buzzing with activities, developments
It is a busy time in the Charlotte Harbor Community Redevelopment Area and Bayshore Live Oak Park, completed last year, provides the perfect venue to host events and bring the community together.
At 10 a.m., Jan. 23, the community is invited to attend a celebration to recognize the completion of several key infrastructure projects that have been a top priority for the Charlotte Harbor Community Redevelopment Agency and the CRA advisory committee for many years. Properties south of Edgewater Drive/Harborview Road within the Charlotte Harbor CRA boundaries now have access to a central, low-pressure sewer system. This project will eliminate the use of septic tanks in the area, which is great news for the environment and for encouraging development in the area.
To encourage and facilitate property owners connecting to the new system, the CRA has approved an infrastructure grant program that provides assistance to income-eligible property owners in the area to help cover the cost of onsite improvements and connection fees. The CRA Advisory Committee is reviewing options to expand that grant program to encourage additional connections.
Additionally, a new water line and 24 fire hydrants have also been installed within the CRA boundaries along U.S. 41. This project will improve water pressure and provide enhanced safety standards with the installation of fire hydrants. Although these infrastructure projects are not highly visible to the average citizen, they could have the greatest impact on moving the Charlotte Harbor Redevelopment Area forward.
The installation of the "Welcome to Charlotte Harbor" community identification sign and the landscaping at the foot of the Gilchrist and Barron Collier Bridges completed Phase I of the Gateway Beautification project. Phase II of this project is scheduled to continue this year and will include enhancing pedestrian access to the waterfront for fishing or simply to enjoy the views. The CRA is currently negotiating a contract to complete the surveying, engineering and permitting phase for Phase II. The Charlotte Harbor CRA Advisory Committee recognizes the importance that Bayshore Live Oak Park has on the overall redevelopment of the area and is participating in developing community events at the park to encourage both residents and visitors to visit and enjoy the park. Don't miss the next Movie Under the Stars featuring "Runaway Bride" starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere on Feb. 13. The movie starts at 7 p.m. and admission is free. No coolers allowed. Please bring your own lawn chairs or blanket to enjoy the show.
On Jan. 24, the first annual Hands Across the Harbor event will take place at Bayshore Live Oak Park. This fun event is a joint program with the City of Punta Gorda CRA and will bring together runners, walkers, and bicycle riders to enjoy the views of the Charlotte Harbor from both sides of the bridges. Event information and registration forms are available at http://www.zoomersrun.com/ or at The Tropical Store, 306 West Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda.
If you are not interested in participating in the 5K competitive run, fun walk, or 15-mile bike ride, you can stop by the park and enjoy the live music provided by Michael's Hibiscus Band or meet Helmutt, the Florida Department of Transportation safety dog who always wears his bike helmet! FDOT safety staff will be providing free bike helmets and will fit them for children and adults who attend the event. Information on bicycle and pedestrian safety and maps of pedestrian/bicycle trails will also be available.
Keep your eyes on Charlotte Harbor. In the next few months, expect to see the installation of lighting at the fishing pier; construction to begin on the eight-foot-wide sidewalk from the foot of the south-bound U.S. 41 bridge to Olean Boulevard; and the development of design plans for Phase II Gateway Project. These projects are part of the CRA's neighborhood improvement plan to provide a safe and pedestrian-friendly environment that will lead to enhanced business and residential development within Charlotte Harbor.
Debrah Forester is the redevelopment director for Charlotte County.
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Dania Beach
Dania Beach moving on redevelopment efforts
Dania Beach's Community Redevelopment Agency has been laying plans that it hopes will bear fruit when the economy turns around.
City officials are considering expanding the CRA district west and north to include the Dania Heights, College Gardens and Northwest Byrd Pointe/Sun Gardens Isles neighborhoods. In the past year, CRA Executive Director Jeremy Earle has held a dozen meetings in neighborhoods throughout the city to gather input from local businesses and residents.
The city has hired the consulting firm Michele Mellgren & Associates to develop a community redevelopment plan, which Mellgren said will be presented to the City Commission, sitting as the CRA board of directors, at its Jan. 22 meeting.
While noting that redevelopment plans are typically long-term in their outlook, she said "there are things we can do to create jobs in the city's downtown in a five-year period."
Among her big-picture proposals will be a suggestion to relocate Old Griffin Road a few blocks south to around Third Terrace to create about three-fourths of a mile of waterfront property, and to raise and widen bridges at the Dania Cutoff Canal and the C-10 Canal to accommodate larger boats. An analysis being done as part of her study said the two moves could create 2,500 local marine industry jobs.
"It would invite marine industries to the area, and they are looking for places to go," Mellgren said.
Earle agrees with emphasizing the city's waterfront location and boosting its marine industry, and as part of that effort he invited industry officials to brainstorm ideas about promoting the Marina Mile/State Road 84 corridor.
Margaret Croxton, executive director of the Marina Mile 84 Association, said she hopes the city can work with agencies such as the South Florida Water Management District to gain support for industry-friendly zoning changes, dredging and funding. That, she said, could help attract larger marinas, boat yards and companies that service, store and repair larger vessels.
"There's an enormous opportunity to grow the marine industry, which could supply thousands of new employees," Croxton said. "If they can help with the infrastructure, we can bring the development. ... Of the cities that belong to the association, Dania Beach, Davie and Fort Lauderdale. Dania Beach has the most potential for expansion of its marine industry because there is so much more available undeveloped waterfront land."
The CRA, charged with revitalizing blighted areas in the city, was formed in 2003. The current CRA district is a 506-acre area along Federal Highway between Sheridan Street and Dania Beach Boulevard, where it flares out to include areas east and west. If its findings of blight and necessity are approved by the state, the CRA district could expand to 1,300 acres. Earle said area residents expressed a desire for more home ownership, smaller residences such as town homes and villas that appeal to young adults and empty-nesters, and developments that feature ground-level shops and upstairs-dwelling units.
Unlike older CRA districts, the city does not have a pot of money to fund their CRA initiatives. Until the county stepped in several years to take a more active role in redevelopment districts, cities with CRAs could draw upon tax increment financing to buy blighted property, award grants and financial incentives to developers and investors.
Tax increment financing returns tax revenues derived from the increased value of real estate within CRA districts as a result of successful redevelopment efforts back to the CRA for further redevelopment activities, instead of giving them to the county, school board or other governmental agencies that would normally receive those tax dollars.
Cities such as Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood have raised and spent millions of TIF revenues over the years. In contrast, Dania Beach CRA officials must raise money by applying for grants, which will be a challenge, Earle said.
"Our challenge is to leverage city finds with whatever resources we can find," he said. "Not having TIF financing means we don't have any autonomy to do things at a local level."
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Flagler Beach
The City of Flagler Beach, the Flagler Beach CRA, and CRA businesses have all teamed up to support and sponsor the 9th Annual Tommy Tant Memorial Surf Classic. The event has grown to a two day event and returns to the Flagler Pier in Flagler Beach, Florida on November 1st and 2nd, 2008. The highly anticipated annual event celebrates the life, love, and laughter of Tommy Tant -one of Flagler Beach's surfing community who sadly passed away due to an aortic aneurysm in 1998.
The City and its CRA are proud to be sponsors of this wonderful and worthwhile event and to see it grow. Many businesses in the Flagler Beach CRA and out as well are participating and sponsoring the event such as the Flagler Fish Company, The Golden Lion, Zwave, Sully’s Surf Shop, BeachHouse Beanery, Salty Dog Sandwich Shop, Sally’s Ice Cream, Almond Blossom Café, Blue at Topaz, and Joseph’s Bistro.
Top pro surfers confirmed to compete are Asher Nolan, Shea Lopez, Jeremy Johnston, Alek Parker, Zander Morton, Cheyne Cottrell, Will Tant, and Jesse Heilman.Saturday's competition begins at 7:30 am and includes live art, raffle, lunch for competitors, and jam session by musicians Braddigan and Josh Garrels. It is anticipated that there will be upwards of 300 surfers participating this year.
The Tant Classic will include the highlight division, "Tadpoles", which is for kids who require adult assistance to catch waves. Every Tadpole receives a participation trophy that embodies the Tant Classic's aloha spirit. The Tadpole division is presented by Sully's Surf Shop.
After Saturday's surfing, the evening's events will kick off at 5pm with an exceptional ocean dining experience at the premier Surf Classic Food Festival Fundraiser on the historic Flagler Beach Pier that will showcase many of Flaglers finest restaurants. After the dinner, a concert by Braddigan and Josh Garrels will be held at Veteran's Park, downtown Flagler Beach at the corner of A1A and State Road 100 at 7:45pm. Bring the family and a blanket to enjoy an evening of eclectic sounds that combine folk music, rock, reggae, break beats, Brazilian beats and Latin percussion rhythms.
All money raised funds scholarships awarded to local young surfers and food for local families in need. The event also donates to the Flagler Resource Center, which runs a Food Bank. For event information please visit www.tommytant.com or www.cityofflaglerbeach.com/sesonalevents
A New Generation of Children Revive an Old School
Flagler Beach Montessori School Opens Their Doors.
The Moody-Wickline Center housed the elementary school many years ago. It has been used by the Flagler County School Board to house the Adult Education classes for many years as well. The community uses the building for special occasions, classes and other activities and will continue to do so. Recently, the opportunity arose to have the building house a new generation of students and the City Commission accepted the Montessori School’s proposal to lease the Grand Room for their school.
Doors opened on September 3, 2008 and the sounds of children laughing and carrying on have once again filled the hallway of this wonderful old building. Its history has come full circle as the school continues to provide services to the new generation of children passing through it. Soon you will see a small garden outside that the children will be tending to. Should you have any questions regarding the method of teaching or the school itself, contact the school at 793-9567.
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The relatively new Community Redevelopment Agency in Fort Lauderdale's Sistrunk area has taken steps to use $4.5 million in CRA bonding capacity or other funding sources for a gateway project. The plan includes streetscape and infrastructure improvements along Sixth Street and Sistrunk Boulevard, the main street through the center of the CRA. Kim Jackson, CRA Manager, emphasizes the importance of giving developers immediate assurances from government that the area is worth the investment, because it is perceived as a high risk. "They need a confidence level that the public sector is behind them", she said. In addition, the CRA approved spending $300,000 to buy 10 parcels, seven of which are vacant, to encourage a private developer to build model homes. The CRA and City are also teaming up to hire two code enforcement officers whose sole responsibility will be to ensure that areas targeted for improvement in the district are well-maintained.
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Fort Myers
Fort Myers, FL, April 15, 2010 – The City of Fort Myers’ Downtown Utility and Streetscape Project was awarded the “Project of the Year” award in the Historical Restoration/Preservation category by the Florida Chapter Awards Committee of the American Public Works Association (APWA). This award brings further recognition to the City of Fort Myers and the efforts made to revitalize our downtown while restoring and preserving the historical elements. Eighty projects throughout the state of Florida were submitted for consideration.
The APWA Project of the Year Award recognizes the managing agency, the engineer and other team consultants, and the contractor who work together to complete public works projects. Awards are judged on the following criteria: - Use of good construction management techniques and completion of the project on schedule
- Safety performance and demonstrated awareness of the need for a good overall safety program during construction
- Community relations through efforts to minimize public inconvenience and precautions to protect the public during construction, and other means of improving relations between the agency and the public
- Demonstrated awareness for the need to protect the environment during construction
- Unusual accomplishments under adverse conditions
- Additional conditions deemed important to the public works agency such as time or money-saving techniques or exceptional quality control, etc.
The Downtown Utility and Streetscape project team outlined the construction techniques, accelerated schedule and safety programs while emphasizing the understanding and protection of the historic elements of our downtown area. All facets of the community relations program were described including the Fort Myers Redevelopment Agency’s programs to assist the downtown businesses during construction. The City of Fort Myers combined the utility project with the streetscape project to reduce cost and construction inconvenience to the public. By rebidding the project in phases, the City of Fort Myers was able to reduce the cost further due to a downturn in the economy.
Emphasis was given to streetscape’s design challenges while meeting Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements in a historic district. This was particularly challenging because the new roadway and sidewalk systems employ narrower streets, wider sidewalks and lower street profiles. We showcased one of our most exciting accomplishments of recovering and “recycling” over 500,000 bricks once covered for decades by asphalt on our existing streets. Reusing the old bricks was a large and unique undertaking in preserving our historic downtown. Gaining acceptance from other agencies to use smaller, historic traffic signals throughout downtown adds to the downtown charm and unusual accomplishments of the project.
The success of the Downtown Utility and Streetscape Project earned the City of Fort Myers and the project team the honor of this prestigious award. The City of Fort Myers Downtown Utility and Streetscape team has been invited to present the project at the 50th Anniversary of the APWA Florida Chapter Annual Meeting in Orlando on May 4th, 2010.
The City of Fort Myers began the Downtown Utility Replacement and Streetscape Improvements Project in late 2005 and completed the project in late 2009. While this project beautified downtown Fort Myers, more importantly, this was a utility replacement project. The Downtown Utility Replacement and Streetscape Improvements project replaced all existing water, sewer and storm drain systems in downtown Fort Myers; many dating as far back as the early 1900s. Once the underground utility replacement work on each street was complete, street beautification elements were constructed including brick-accented sidewalks and crosswalks, streetscape amenities, and landscaping and lighting. Street furniture such as benches, waste receptacles, and decorative bike racks placed throughout the downtown area complete the street furnishings package.
APWA is an international educational and professional association of public agencies, private sector companies and individuals dedicated to providing high quality public works goods and services. It’s membership consists of public works directors, city engineers, city managers, fleet managers, property and equipment superintendents, utilities managers, community development directors, transportation managers, parks directors, county officials and representatives from the companies that supply products and services to those professionals. The Association provides a forum in which public works professionals can exchange ideas, improve professional competency, increase the performance of their agencies and companies, and bring important public works-related topics to public attention in local, state and federal arenas.
Construction Manager Model Saves Fort Myers Millions on Downtown Project
Work is complete on what is likely the largest public works project of its kind: a complete utility and streetscape project in downtown Fort Myers, Florida, headed up by the Fort Myers division of Naples-based Kraft Construction, which served as the construction manager.
During a single, four-year project, the entire underground utility infrastructure and the complete streetscape of 52 blocks of the city’s urban core were removed and replaced.
The project – an effort funded by the Fort Myers Public Works Department and the city’s Downtown Redevelopment Agency – used the unique construction manager model to help save the city millions of dollars.
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Fort Pierce
Fort Pierce Main Street named as semifinalist for national award By Jay Meisel
FORT PIERCE - Beginning in the late 1970s as malls developed, downtown Fort Pierce lost businesses and buildings remained vacant.
"It was a typical scenario of what was going on around the nation," said Doris Tillman, the director of Fort Pierce Main Street. Then in 1988, a workshop was held to find ways to revitalize downtown and 300 people showed up, despite a "blistering rain storm," Ms. Tillman said. "That was a real turning point for downtown," she said. In recognition of the progress since then, Fort Pierce Main Street was named a semifinalist for the 2010 Great American Main Street awards last week. Fort Pierce will compete with Aledo, Ill., Columbus, Miss., Fairmont, W. Va., Farmland, Ind., Ferndale, Mich., Lee's Summit, Mo., Paducah, Ky., Pontiac, Ill. and Rochester, Mich. The winner will be announced during the National Main Streets conference in Oklahoma City on May 4. Fort Pierce could end up being only the second Florida city to win. The first was Deland. Ms. Tillman said this was the first time Fort Pierce Main Street applied. She said in past years, with numerous projects going on, the "timing wasn't right." Since 1988, she said, downtown Fort Pierce gained 404 jobs, 88 new businesses, 136 projects to rehabilitate existing buildings and 17 new buildings. There's been $14.5 million in public investment and $25 million in private investment. But it all started with that workshop when people helped develop a master plan for downtown, said Ms. Tillman, director of Main Street since 1991. "We were all excited and ready to make a change and it happened," she said. Ms. Tillman recalled that early on, a woman told her that she was ashamed to go downtown, but had decided to be a part of the change. The woman started a business, she said. And that was typical of many, Ms. Tillman said. In only six months, not long after the initial workshop, 60 businesses were attracted to downtown, she said. In the years since, progress has included the Manatee Center, the rehabilitation of the Sunrise Theatre and renovation of the old City Hall. More recently, Main Street moved its headquarters to the former residence of landscape artist A.E. Backus and renovated the dwelling. Efforts to convince St. Lucie County to maintain its presence in downtown Fort Pierce were successful and the results have included a new Clerk of Courts building. The success came about, in part, because Fort Pierce Main Street has a board of directors that never shied away from major projects, she said. But it's also occurred because of support from residents and enthusiastic city officials, such as former Mayor Eddie Enns and former city manager Dennis Beach, she said. Besides all that, she said, success has come because of promoting downtown. That has included holding events, such as Friday Fest and putting information about businesses on its Web site. For more information about Fort Pierce Main Street, go to www.mainstreetfortpierce.org.
Gainesville
CRA Receives 2009 APA Florida Project Award!
The Florida Chapter of the American Planning Association (FAPA) has awarded a 2009 APA Florida Project Award to the Gainesville CRA. The CRA received an Award of Merit for outstanding achievement in Neighborhood Planning for initiatives in the Fifth Avenue/Pleasant Street redevelopment area. In 2008, CRA staff worked extensively with the FAPS advisory board, other citizen groups, and the CRA Board to update and completely rewrite the FAPS Redevelopment Plan, which is the comprehensive vision for CRA activities in the area. With this guiding document complete, CRA staff next created and implemented a strategic planning process in order to link the Redevelopment Plan, project budgeting process, and project management into a holistic framework allowing for timely and efficient implementation of redevelopment projects. The strategic planning process, which is currently being implemented in all four Gainesville CRA redevelopment areas, provides an evaluation methodology for considering potential projects and allows visibility into the implementation of the Redevelopment Plan. FAPA has recognized both the FAPS Redevelopment Plan and the Gainesville CRA’s strategic planning process as exemplary and innovative achievements which contribute to the field of planning and which provide practical transferability to other municipalities. The award highlights a standard of excellence in planning, community participation, and project implementation at the Gainesville CRA, and recognizes the CRA’s unwavering commitment to identify and pursue quality projects that cover both the full physical extent of a Redevelopment Area as well as the breadth of objectives outlined in the Redevelopment Plan.
2009 FAPA Awards Program - Neighborhood Planning Award Nomination
Fifth Avenue/Pleasant Street 3-Year Redevelopment Roadmap
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Hollywood
Many New Business Open in Downtown Hollywood
Business is booming in historic Downtown Hollywood, where more than 20 new businesses have opened their doors in the past year. According to the City of Hollywood CRA – Downtown District, there is bustling business and visitor activity Downtown – especially during evening hours – despite sluggish economic conditions.
“When malls, shopping centers and downtown districts across the nation are losing tenants,” said Downtown CRA Director, Neil Fritz, “it’s great to see Downtown Hollywood headed in the other direction.”
“Formerly vacant storefronts have been occupied by new and relocated businesses,” Fritz continued, “and we also have new retail space at the Radius Condominium that’s filling up. We are way ahead of the game on Hollywood Boulevard, which probably has the highest occupancy rate in years.”
The newest members of Downtown Hollywood’s business community attribute its appeal to a number of factors including fair rents from landlords, a pro-business Downtown CRA and innovative customer incentive programs. In addition, there are free ongoing events that bring large audiences to Downtown Hollywood, such as Funtastic Fridays for Kids, ArtWalk and the Dream Car Classic.
Leading the recent Downtown movement was Sage French Café & Oyster Bar, which opened at 2000 Harrison Street in late October 2008 and just seven months later was recognized as the “Best New Restaurant in Broward” in New Times Best of Broward-Palm Beach 2009.
More Information
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Jacksonville
As the sole economic development and community redevelopment agency for the City of Jacksonville, the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission (JEDC) is responsible for developing and executing policies that result in sustainable job growth, rising personal incomes and a broader tax base. Recent major projects that have been approved and will soon be developing downtown include the relocation of Macquarie Mortgages USA Inc, which will relocate its U.S. headquarters operation from Memphis to downtown Jacksonville. Additionally, Fidelity National Financial has committed to its second major investment in the community, with the addition of 800 new jobs and approximately $23 million in private capital investment.
Downtown Jacksonville was most recently designated as a Transportation Concurrency Exemption Area (TCEA) under the Florida Administrative Code (FAC). This designation will complement the continued downtown development and revitalization in regards to downtown DRI development rights and required transportation improvements. Recent area infrastructure improvements such as the $12 million widening of Riverside Avenue, the $207 million new I-95/I-10 interchange, the new $112 million Fuller Warren Bridge and improved interstate access throughout downtown are key to further growth.
The downtown Jacksonville residential market is thriving, both along the Northbank and Southbank. Over 800 units of housing are under construction to add to the current 1,572 residential existing inventory. The city’s Design Review Committee (DRC) has approved future development of over 4,200 residential units in the urban core area. Private capital investment remains strong with over $211 million in development completed in downtown last year and over 14 projects representing $479 million are under construction pursued by both regional and national developers. This combined with downtown’s healthy 8.5-million-square-foot office market with an average lease rate of $18.06 help make downtown Jacksonville a prime location for business. Continued development helps to employ more than 55,000 downtown workers at companies such as Bank of America, Blue Cross Blue Shield, CSX and Fidelity National Financial.
The popular downtown Riverwalk is expanding its reach with the redevelopment of a seven acre site along the Northbank that was formerly the Jacksonville Shipyard Property. LandMar Group, LLC will redevelop this site into an estimated $450 million mixed-use community, creating over $40 million in public riverwalk parks and pier space.
Community revitalization continues to occur throughout Jacksonville, with increased efforts focusing on the Brooklyn, LaVilla, Cathedral district and Soutel-Moncrief areas. Particular emphasis has been placed on retail, parking and workforce housing. This new redevelopment complements The Better Jacksonville Plan, a $2.25 billion comprehensive growth management strategy for the City of Jacksonville that aims to benefit revitalized neighborhoods in all parts of the city.
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Lake County
There are currently seven (7) CRAs in Lake County. The City of Mount Dora has the oldest CRA in the area. It was adopted in May of 1987. In 2007, the TIF revenue amounted to $1,535,000. Since the city established the 420-acre CRA, they have completed projects such as roadway improvements and landscaping, directional signage, parking lot resurfacing, parking garage construction, Donnelly Park Improvements and much more.
The City of Clermont established their 157-acre CRA on May 27, 1997. In 2007, the TIF has generated $900,175. Over the years, Clermont has utilized their funds to complete projects such as streetscape, signage and infrastructure improvements.
The City of Eustis created a 938-acre CRA in 1990. TIF revenues for Eustis last year resulted in $518,000. Eustis has installed sidewalks, pedestrian crosswalks, and planted trees with their TIF Revenue.
Leesburg has had a CRA since December, 2001. The TIF on their 695-acre CRA generated $619,437 in 2007. To date, Leesburg has completed roadway improvements, landscaping and pedestrian crossings.
A CRA has existed in The City of Tavares June 7, 1995. There are 396 acres within the CRA boundary. Their 2007 TIF revenues totaled $224,255. Tavares has made roadway improvements, planted trees, installed decorative lighting and more with their funding, and they have big plans for the future!
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Largo
The City of Largo has been trying to revive the economy of downtown through financial incentives and infrastructure improvements. A group of consultants visited the city through the Main Street Program last spring to take stock of Largo's progress and to make suggestions on what the city needs to do to make downtown a vibrant area of commerce. The group concluded that they are making real strides, and presented their findings to civic and business leaders at the Greater Chamber of Commerce. Largo is an associate Main Street city, coordinated by Lotta Baumann.
Since that time, the $4.2 million widening project of a major thoroughfare is well under way, and the city has taken bids from developers interested in buying land just west of the project that used to be the City Hall. Largo has a residential area around the area being developed, with brick streets and homes built before World War II, which could be designated an historic district. Projects being discussed for the future are a parking garage and library in the downtown area.
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Lauderdale Lakes
Lauderdale Lakes held a groundbreaking for the commencement of the 32-acre Bella Vista mixed-use project, located on Oakland Park Boulevard in the new “Town Center”. This project was developed through a partnership between the Lauderdale Lakes Community Redevelopment Agency and developer United Homes International. The project will be designed in the “New Urbanist” style of urban planning seen in other successful projects such as Mizner Park in Boca Raton and CityPlace in West Palm Beach. It will incorporate elements of “Traditional Neighborhood Design.”
Lauderdale Lakes' new $6.2m Library and Community educational and Cultural Center-half was CRA funded and the CRA is the developer/banker through completion. The County library will reimburse half the cost to the CRA under an Interlocal Agreement. Through a federal grant, monies were obtained for the furnishing of equipment needed for a computer training program, and the CRA Business Development Center is on the second floor.
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Miami
The Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA authorized the rebuilding of the N.W. 3rd Avenue Business Corridor in Overtown from N.W. 7th Street to N.W. 14th Street. The Board created the N.W. 3rd Avenue Streetscape Committee to select street design features including: lighting, landscaping, paver designs, and street furniture on this avenue, which was the historic business center of Overtown. Project design is being handled through the City of Miami's Office of Capital Improvement and Transportation and design drawings are currently at the 80% complete stage. In addition to rebuilding the roadway, the project will also upgrade the water main along N.W. 3rd Avenue to provide better service to area residents. It is expected that this project will be put out for bid and construction in August of 2007 at an estimated cost for construction of approximately $5,000,000.
In November of 2006, the Board of Commissioners authorized a grant to Downtown Miami Partnership (DMP) in an amount not to exceed $525,000 for facade improvements for buildings along N.W. 3rd Avenue. The improvements will include, painting the buildings, replacing the store front with hurricane/impact resistant windows and new awnings. So far under this program, the facade of the Masonic Lodge has been completed and nine other buildings have been painted including Cafe China Restaurant, Caring Touch Barber Shop, Econo Supermarket, Mary's Soul Food, and the Dunn Hotel. DMP is in the process of bidding out the storefront and awning facade improvements.
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North Lauderdale
*Photo courtesy of Merrill Tritt Photography
City of North Lauderdale residents are proud the call their city home to marine artist Wyland’s 99th and final mural in the United States. The City recently celebrated the completion of this International Year of the Reef Wall created by Wyland as part of his world renowned Whaling Wall art project, comprised of 100 murals. The artist painted the historic wall along McNab Rd., just west of Rock Island Rd., in the City of North Lauderdale, with the help of famed artists Romero Britto and Guy Harvey, plus numerous art enthusiasts and youth throughout the South Florida community.
“This project has done much to enhance the City of North Lauderdale by creating a great spectacle for residents and the millions that will pass this wall each year,” Mayor Jack Brady said. “We are extremely appreciative to Wyland for selecting the City of North Lauderdale as home to his final mural in the United States, and confident that this historic happening will allow us to continue ‘Building a Future’ for our residents.”
Wyland’s 10’ x 1,000’ mural is adorned with mangroves, inspired by the Everglades, in addition to manatees, coral reefs, dolphins, turtles, mangroves and other sea life. Over the next year, this wall will be transformed into Wyland Walk, a fully remodeled McNab/Cypress Creek corridor spanning the length of the world-renown mural, featuring park benches, lush landscaping and a spiraling walkway marveled with sea-toned colors of recycled glass. The new area will anchor the City’s “Arts in Public Places” program, which strives to implement thought-provoking, original art to help inspire residents. The program, coupled with ongoing redevelopment initiatives, help to foster distinctive, attractive communities with a sense of place.
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Oldsmar
CRA SUCCESS
Oldsmar CRA
If you haven't had the chance to visit the City of Oldsmar, you're missing out on one of Florida's most unique communities. If you enjoy a small-town atmosphere with a touch of "Old Florida" charm, Oldsmar is the place to be.
The Oldsmar CRA, led by Director of Planning and Redevelopment, Marie Dauphinais, AICP, CFM, works hard at making sure Oldsmar stays true to its roots by maintaining the comfortable feel of a warm and inviting community.
"We've always wanted to retain that small town, Old Florida charm. That is our identity," said Dauphinais. "There is a renewed interest in downtowns. More and more people want the quality of life found in a small town atmosphere and that is the vision of our CRA."
The Oldsmar CRA's primary function is the redevelopment of a designated geographic area called the "town center." This area is where most of the community's buildings, restaurants and hotels reside.
Through their architectural developments, the Oldsmar CRA has been able to construct its new library and renovate the old library, a historic structure. The buildings are both designed to withhold their historical look. After its completion in 2008, the Oldsmar Public Library was recognized by FRA with the Outstanding New Building Project Award.
One specific vision that Oldsmar successfully implemented is called the Paint-Up Fix-Up Grant Program. This program was designed to increase "pride of ownership" within the city, as well as to promote the overall beautification of the CRA. Many routine projects such as landscaping, roof repairs, window/door replacement, fencing and lighting can qualify for a grant. In order to be eligible for funding, an application must be approved by the City of Oldsmar.
The program helps property owners improve their home's appearance by providing matching funds up to $1,000, to those who desire to improve the way their home looks, but may not be able to afford it. Funds are dispersed after completion of the project. The Paint-Up-Fix-Up Grant Program has been in place for several years and has proved to be successful with at least 15 participants last year.
If you're still wondering how to help improve your CRA, the main advice Dauphinais gives to you is simple. "To have a successful CRA you must be able to continually reevaluate, reassess and be flexible," said Dauphinais. "You must also have the support of the city council and CRA members. But most importantly, you must stay true to your city's shared vision." For more information about the Oldsmar CRA or the Paint-Up Fix-Up Grant Program, please visit the website at www.ci.oldsmar.fl.us or call the City of Oldsmar Planning and Redevelopment Department at (813) 749-1123.
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Pensacola
The City recently embarked on a project that included a breakwater, a 92-slip marina, the 7,200 square foot Harbormaster Building housing a restaurant and professional offices, and a 21,000 square foot Class-A office building known as the Ice House. The building took its name after being built on the site of E.E. Saunders' Ice House that supplied Pensacola's red snapper fishing fleet with ice at the turn of the century.
The second phase of the development, the construction of two buildings totaling 72,000 square feet of mixed-use space, was recently completed. For sale in the building are 12 high-end residences, all with dramatic views of Pensacola Bay, and for lease are 36,000 square feet of retail/office space. The mixed-use condominium is a model that offers interesting possibilities to creative developers. As a part of the public/private partnership, the city invested $1.2 million along the pier to construct a waterfront promenade, landscape pedestrian plazas, and install new railing and historically styled lighting. Walkways, benches, a fountain and outdoor dining at Lillo's Italian Restaurant invite people to linger for the spectacular sunsets over the marina.
Phase three of Palafox Pier is in the planning stages, awaiting a decision on the future of the Bayfront Auditorium. One idea, if the existing auditorium is demolished, is to create a large, open plaza for picnics, concerts, and fishing tournaments and that would provide the public with a place to view the panorama of Pensacola Bay.n overlay district that would allow denser development in the downtown.
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Pinellas County
Click here to see the latest redevelopment projects from Pinellas County.
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Port St. Joe
2009 was another year of progress in Downtown Port St Joe as the community continues its transition to a tourist destination. In support of this transition, the PSJRA has helped many local merchants and property owners with Façade Grants while the engineering and permitting of the Streetscape Improvements to US-98 was also completed. We look forward to continuing the important efforts of the PSJRA in supporting both the growth and the preservation of Port St Joe.
View Port St. Joe's 2009 Annual Report here.
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St. Petersburg
Redeveloping St. Petersburg - A 25-year Overnight Success Story. Please click here for more information on the continuing redevelopment progress that the City of St. Petersburg is making!
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Tallahassee
People who visit Tallahassee for government or legislative meetings know Adams Street in Downtown Tallahassee as "that nice short winding brick road through the center" of activity leading to the Capitol. Reconstruction and streetscaping of a one block widening and extension of Adams is underway, linking the chain of parks at the other end. The very popular Friday night festivals called "Getdowns" continue this year coinciding with home FSU football games. Revenues from the event support United Way of the Big Bend.
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Tampa
Tampa Bay and more specifically downtown Tampa is experiencing a boom in development and business activity. Currently there is more than $2.2 billion in new development taking shape in Tampa’s urban core. The value of taxable properties in the Special Services District (SSD) for the downtown area continues to increase year over year at a vigorous rate. The Tampa Downtown Partnership manages, promotes and coordinates the SSD. As more people come to downtown Tampa to work, visit and now live, it means the Partnership and its programs need to make the adjustments necessary to give greater awareness of the SSD program and the amenities in the City Center. Downtown Tampa boasts a daily workforce of over 66,000 people. More than 2.4 million attended a concert, sporting event, cultural exhibition or theatrical performance at a downtown venue in 2005. Residential growth is healthy and steady. With $1.7 billion in residential development the downtown landscape is quickly changing. At the end of 2005, 600 people called downtown Tampa home. This number will double at the end of 2006 and again at the end of 2007 making downtown’s residential population equal 2,400 individuals. It is a truly remarkable number when one realizes that at the end of 2003 approximately 80 people lived in downtown Tampa. The Tampa Downtown Partnership is quickly making adjustments in various departments to meet the demands of these diverse audiences. This includes better printed materials, community events and a new interactive Web site that gives site visitors the feeling of what Tampa’s Downtown is quickly becoming. To learn more about downtown Tampa and the current initiatives of the Tampa Downtown Partnership visit www.tampasdowntown.com.
City of Tampa - Economic Development Annual Activity Report
City of Tampa - Channel District News
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Viktoria Park, Daytona Beach Shores
City staff and contractors have been working fervently since breaking ground in early July to construct the first of two planned parks in the Daytona Beach Shores Community Redevelopment Area.
We anticipate completion in the next two months with a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony to occur in January 2009. Dates and times will be announced soon.
We are very excited about this addition to our community and look forward to introducing this wonderful public space to our residents and neighbors!
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West Palm Beach
Downtown West Palm Beach has celebrated the fifth anniversary of their "Clematis By Night", the weekly downtown event and fountain side concert series. Rending Company negotiated a $2 million purchase of a 1.32-acre parcel downtown from Dixie Partnership Limited. The property was sold in 1995 for $944,000, and is slated for development as a five-story office building. Housing in downtown is increasing with 53 CityPlace townhomes sold within twelve days, and rental units 25 percent leased. Renaissance Partners' Waterfront Clematis office space is already 60 percent leased, slated for completion in October 2000. Several projects are on the table to connect the Clematis Street District with CityPlace as well. The Rosemary Streetscape Project and trolley are already underway, and now a residential community containing 400 market-rate rental apartments with ground floor commercial space is being considered. BAP Development, Inc., is preparing to develop the $50 million project. The US Post Office will need to relocate or be housed within the new development. Finally, the North American Corporate Games will be held in Downtown West Palm Beach October 27-29. This is a global corporate sports competition expected to draw 3-5,000 participants to downtown and other host sites in Palm Beach County.
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Winter Haven
The Ritz Theatre in Winter Haven has been awarded state grant monies for renovations. When finished, the theater will look much like it did in the 40's. For the second consecutive year, the Ritz has been included in the state budget and received more than $200,000 to renovate the building. Ronni Wood, Mainstreet Director and Ritz Board member says the project is vitally important to the future development and growth in the downtown area. Winter Haven is fortunate to have an historic and cultural base of support and a beautifully preserved town square with businesses and potential residential sites surrounding it. The Ritz Theatre began hosting vaudeville acts and silent movies in the 1920s, and several years ago it served as a teen night club. About four years ago, the restoration group bought the aging structure and made plans to restore the building to its past glory.
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