Oldsmar

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.