Republicans want to overhaul redevelopment agencies that help rebuild blighted areas

Mitch Perry Florida Phoenix March 22, 2019 For the past two legislative sessions, state Republicans have tried to overhaul what’s called Community Redevelopment Agencies (CRAs) that finance improvements in blighted areas. The measures haven’t passed, but now there’s a new attempt in the Legislature that’s gaining traction. State Rep. Chris LaMarca, a Republican from Broward…

Overtown CRA seeks extension

All seem to agree that Overtown has made admirable progress as it emerges from past public and private neglect and that much of that progress can be attributed to the area’s community redevelopment agency. As the historically Black neighborhood continues to overcome inherent socio-economic challenges, residents agree that they want to see the life of…

Developers break ground on new hotels

The dream of building a place where people can come, stay and enjoy Vilano Beach’s unique barrier island community, and where people who live on the island can enjoy new amenities has been shared by past and potential business developers. Soon, the dream will become reality with the addition of two new hotels in Vilano…

Largo sees new apartments, shops, streetscaping

Largo’s long-sought downtown redevelopment is progressing, thanks to a mix of public and private projects along the West Bay Drive and Clearwater-Largo Road corridors. “I think we are at that critical point where we are starting to get both the city’s public investment and the private investment that will create a critical mass,” says Community Development…

Point of View: Florida’s community redevelopment agencies under attack again

Michael Simon Palm Beach Post March 17, 2019 Last year, a lack of public understanding surrounding Florida’s community redevelopment agencies (CRAs) – combined with some negative publicity and a grab for funding – led some state lawmakers in Tallahassee to believe all of these agencies should be completely eliminated. Thanks to the many residents, business…