Construction Progress Accelerates at Fortenberry Apartments in Merritt Island

Construction is gaining momentum at the Fortenberry Apartments in Merritt Island, marking a significant milestone for this highly anticipated residential development. Crews have moved into more advanced stages of construction, with visible progress such as exterior siding installation offering a first look at the future community. The project reflects continued investment in housing and growth…

Melbourne Approves $24M Downtown Streetscape Upgrade

The City of Melbourne is making a major investment in its future with the approval of a $24 million Downtown Streetscape Project designed to transform the heart of the city. Using a Complete Streets approach, the project will enhance walkability, accessibility, and overall aesthetics through upgraded sidewalks, lighting, landscaping, and infrastructure improvements. The Melbourne Community…

Osceola Arts Brings Four Artists Together to Transform 180-Foot Wall in Kissimmee Through Landmark ARTisNOW Mural Project

A major public art initiative is transforming Kissimmee as Osceola Arts, in partnership with the City of Kissimmee Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), brings the ARTisNOW Mural Project to life. Along E. Vine Street, four acclaimed artists are turning a 180-foot wall into a vibrant visual experience that celebrates the city’s culture, environment, and community identity.…

Work Begins to Transform Former Robinson Grocery Store into a Tallahassee Community Resource Center

Construction is officially underway to transform the former Robinson Grocery Store in Tallahassee’s Bond neighborhood into a long-anticipated community resource center. After years of uncertainty, the project marks a major step forward in preserving a site deeply rooted in local history while creating a space designed to serve residents for generations to come. The Community…

Sadie’s Place Set for Ground Breaking

Sebring is taking an exciting step forward with the upcoming groundbreaking of Sadie’s Place, a new mixed-use destination set to bring fresh energy to North Ridgewood Drive. The project will transform the former Nan-ces-o-wee Hotel site into a vibrant gathering space featuring a restaurant, retail shops, a food truck, and unique concepts like an Airstream-based…

Thrive Art District Opens in Fort Lauderdale, Transforming Progresso Village

Fort Lauderdale has officially unveiled the Thrive Art District, a vibrant five-acre creative hub transforming Progresso Village into a destination for arts, culture, and small business growth. Spanning more than 80,000 square feet, the district reflects a strong commitment to thoughtful redevelopment that celebrates the neighborhood’s character while creating new economic opportunities for residents and…

Weekly FRA Newsletter: March 19, 2026

3/19/26 FRA Newsletter Highlights: 📢 Call for Sessions – 2026 FRA Annual ConferenceDeadline extended to Friday, March 20, 2026Conference dates: October 20-23 | Sunseeker Resort, Charlotte Harbor 📚 CRA Board TrainingSign up now 👥 FRA Member Spotlight OpportunityMembers can submit a “Why Join the FRA” quote plus headshot to Merrily Bennett 🎓 FRA Academy Elective…

Legislative Update 3-18-26

The legislature adjourned Sine Die on Friday at 3:15 pm without completing the 2026-2027 state budget. Throughout the 2026 Legislative Session, tensions between the House and Governor, and House and Senate, dictated the pace and tone of work in Tallahassee. The Governor, beginning mid-last year, introduced the idea of eliminating property taxes as a method…

Engineers Detail Final Rio Concept Plan

The Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency Board got its final update March 3 on the 100 percent draft of concept plans for the new community center in Rio and Dixie Highway streetscape improvements that will finally conclude expansion begun years ago. Planning and urban designers from Marlin Engineering of Fort Lauderdale and Dover, Kohl and…