Good News From Florida’s CRAs

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…

A long line of old shipping containers behind a South Monroe Street shopping complex will soon be transformed into a series of gigantic murals, celebrating life in Tallahassee. There are eight double container stacks lined up at the rear of SOMO Walls. Today, they are a bit rusty and well-worn. But Betsy Couch, executive director…

On March 18, the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) board members and city staff discussed the repairs needed and the funding available for the city-owned Tingley Memorial Library. The library is located at 111 Second Street N., which is in the CRA district. Built in 1994, the Tingley Memorial Library was funded by a…

The Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency is beginning to study possible redevelopment ideas for Edison Mall, a community staple since 1965. People are already saying if changes are coming, they want their input heard. WINK News reporter Miyoshi Price talked with shoppers who had different ideas but all agreed they want to see the mall thrive…

Developers BDT & MSD are advancing plans for a luxury residential development that would occupy land shared by The Boca Raton resort. Boca Raton City Council members voted unanimously on the venture last week, approving the construction of an eight-story, 505,840-square-foot condo with 76 units. Residences would include two-bedroom to five-bedroom layout plans. On-site offerings…

A new affordable housing development in Pinellas County has officially opened. Clearwater Gardens, at 1260 Cleveland Street, features 81 units. These are reserved for households which earn between 30 to 80% of the Area Median Income. The four-story building began to welcome residents in December. A grand opening ceremony was held March 24. Archway Partners…

A major redevelopment effort is taking shape in Downtown Tampa, where plans are moving forward to bring approximately 1,150 new residential units to the area—about 70% of which will be designated as affordable and workforce housing. The project aims to transform underutilized land into a connected, mixed-use community with housing, retail, and public spaces. The…

The Sunseeker Resort expansion is poised to deliver a major boost to Charlotte County’s economy, building on the momentum of one of Southwest Florida’s premier waterfront destinations. The large-scale resort, featuring hundreds of rooms, dining, entertainment, and meeting space, continues to position the area as a growing hub for tourism and hospitality. The Charlotte Harbor…

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…

The City of Orlando is taking another step to expand homeownership opportunities in Parramore with the approval of eight newly constructed single-family homes as part of its Infill Housing Initiative. Now in its third phase, the program continues to focus on increasing owner-occupancy while creating long-term stability for the neighborhood. The Orlando Community Redevelopment Agency…

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…

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.…