Good News From Florida’s CRAs

The Apopka Community Redevelopment Agency’s (CRA) annual report shows continued investment in infrastructure and neighborhood improvements in 2025, while some vacant storefronts and limited participation in business assistance programs remain in parts of the district. According to the report, which is now available on the city’s website, the agency spent more than $1.7 million during the reporting period on projects including the Downtown Apopka Trail, park improvements and…

Hope Partnership celebrated the opening of Thrive Studios, transforming a former motel on West Vine Street into supportive, permanent housing for residents experiencing homelessness. The development pairs affordable studio apartments with services like case management, job support, and financial education to help residents achieve long-term stability. The project arrives as housing costs continue to strain…

The Tampa Bay Rays unveiled the draft framework for their plan to build a new stadium in Tampa. The project, according to the “Memorandum of Understanding Overview,” would include the Rays, Hillsborough County, the city of Tampa, Tampa Sports Authority, the Community Redevelopment Agency board, and Hillsborough College. The new owners of the team want…

Lake Wales is one step away from launching its new Arts, Culture and Entertainment District, with final approval now awaiting the governor’s signature. The designation would allow visitors to enjoy beverages while walking through downtown, adding a new draw to the city’s historic core and building on popular events already happening in the area. The…

A new boutique fitness studio is set to bring a fresh workout experience to downtown Coral Springs, adding to the growing energy of the area’s emerging downtown core. Tremble, a Miami-based concept that blends strength training, cardio, and Pilates-style movement, will open later this year at the Cornerstone development. Known for its fast-paced, instructor-led classes…

A new mixed-use development near Mizner Park is set to bring a 12-story hotel, retail, and dining space to downtown Boca Raton, replacing an aging shopping plaza on the site. The project will include 219 hotel rooms, a parking structure, and more than 30,000 square feet of restaurant and retail space, adding new activity and…

Clearwater Gardens is now open, bringing 81 new affordable housing units to downtown Clearwater for residents earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income. Built on a formerly underused site, the development is already nearly fully occupied and offers a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, along with amenities like a fitness center,…

New dog parks at the Tampa Riverwalk offer new space for community connection! Two new dog parks at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park are adding even more energy to Tampa’s Riverwalk, giving residents and their pets new spaces to gather and enjoy the waterfront. Designed for both small and large breeds, the parks are thoughtfully integrated…

A new affordable housing development in Immokalee is set to deliver 80 rental units for local workers, helping address a long-standing need for attainable housing in the community. Casa San Juan Diego, a partnership between the Diocese of Venice and National Development of America, will serve residents earning up to 60% of the area median…

The long-awaited restoration of the historic Walesbilt Hotel is shaping up to be a major boost for downtown Lake Wales. A recent economic study shows the project could bring thousands of new visitors each year, millions in local spending, and hundreds of jobs. With plans to become part of the Marriott Tribute Collection, the restored…

Ace Hardware has been part of Margate for more than 50 years, serving generations of residents and employing more than 20 people who live locally. It’s more than just a hardware store, it’s a go-to spot for homeowners, city departments, and anyone needing quick, reliable solutions. As new development puts pressure on the area, keeping…

A major mixed-use development proposed for Maritime Park in downtown Pensacola represents a significant opportunity to expand housing, boost tourism, and strengthen the local economy. The project, a partnership between Inspired Communities of Florida, LLC and Hard Rock Hotel, would bring 198 residential rental units and a 147-key hotel to the waterfront. Developers have requested…