Your Weekly FRA Update:

April 2, 2026

The Florida Redevelopment Association is pleased to announce our upcoming CRA Board Training, taking place on Friday, June 12, 2026, in Panama City.

This training is designed for elected and appointed officials, volunteers, and advisory board members who want a clear, practical understanding of Community Redevelopment Agencies. Attendees will gain valuable insight into the legal, administrative, and policy considerations that support successful CRA governance.

The session will be led by Clifford B. Shepard, Attorney at Law and FRA General Counsel, who brings extensive experience in city, county, and local government law, as well as mediation and arbitration.

Whether you are new to CRA leadership or looking to strengthen your expertise, this session will provide actionable guidance and best practices you can apply immediately.

We look forward to seeing you in Panama City!

FRA Members - submit your "Why Join The FRA" quote by sending a short quote and your headshot to Merrily Bennett at mbennett@flcities.com.

The FRA Academy Elective Course, "Housing As A Redevelopment Tool,” will be held on April 17 in Winter Park! 

“Housing As A Redevelopment Tool” topics include:


✅ Defining the role of housing in CRAs

✅ Needs and market demand

✅ Planning and coordination for affordable and workforce housing

✅ Working with affordable, workforce, and market-rate housing developers

✅ Housing rehabilitation process

✅ Demolition of dilapidated housing

The FRA Academy is a unique educational program designed to promote a prerequisite level of knowledge and professionalism in the field of community redevelopment.

🏆 2025 FRA Award Winner Showcase: Planning Studies – Large City


Marion County, Florida Community Redevelopment Agency – Silver Springs CRA Master Plan Update

The Silver Springs CRA Master Plan Update re-imagines one of Florida’s most iconic natural and cultural destinations through a bold, community-driven redevelopment strategy. Anchored by Silver Springs State Park, the plan outlines four catalyst concepts – multiple-family, town center, resort lodging, and mixed-use – that act to illustrate opportunities to revitalize the area’s economy, enhance mobility, and celebrate its unique identity. Developed through extensive public engagement and market analysis, the plan outlines infrastructure upgrades, branding, and placemaking to guide reinvestment through 2052. It is a replicable model for rural and mid-sized communities seeking sustainable, inclusive, and place-based revitalization.

FRA Member News

The FRA features member news in our weekly newsletter and on our social media channels - make sure you are following the FRA social media feeds to see CRA member posts; plus you can share news from the FRA's "Redevelopment Works" campaign!

FRA Members - share your stories and successes with the FRA - email us at fra@flcities.com and include a description or press release, and a photo!



New! Grand Opening Held for Clearwater Gardens

CRAs build better communities! #redevelopmentworks



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 founder and president Brett Green explained that the project stemmed from a request for proposal from the Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency. According to the organization’s website, the CRA is a “dependent taxing district established by the City of Clearwater government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities within our designated community areas.”

Read more here

New! Old Shipping Containers Will Become the Canvas for Tallahassee’s Latest Display of Public Art

CRAs build better communities! #redevelopmentworks



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 of the Knight Creative Communities Institute says big changes are on the way.

“We’re taking a block-long area and transforming it into this cool, vibrant cultural destination, through a series of murals.”

The first of eight mural artists to get to work is Michale Crowne. He plans to begin painting this Saturday, March 28.

“My design is, in simple essence, a mockingbird. That will be the initial kickoff of that.”

He’ll soon be joined by the other artists, each striving to capture a different aspect of the special city that is Tallahassee. The $60,000 project was funded primarily by the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency. It should be finished by Memorial Day.

Read more here

New! Tingley Memorial Library Options Discussed

CRAs build better communities! #redevelopmentworks



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 bequest of more than $500,000 made long ago by benefactor Beulah Tingley, whom the library is named after. The bequeathed funds the library operations that include one full-time salary and the utilization of several volunteers.

The library building needs repairs in the $230,000 to $250,000 range, according to Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby.

Read more here

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

CRAs build better communities! #redevelopmentworks



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.

Supported by the CRA, this project highlights the power of strategic investment in public spaces to enhance community pride and create meaningful cultural destinations. Each artist contributes a unique perspective—from environmental storytelling and local wildlife to bold expressions of identity and creativity—coming together to form a cohesive, immersive mural that reflects the spirit of Kissimmee.

Beyond its artistic impact, the ARTisNOW initiative fosters community engagement by inviting residents to witness the creative process in real time. This project is a strong example of how public art, backed by the CRA, can revitalize shared spaces, spark connection, and showcase the diverse stories that define a community.

Read more here

Downtown Tampa Shake-Up: 1,150 Affordable Homes Planned by I-275

CRAs build better communities! #redevelopmentworks



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 Tampa CRA is a key partner in this initiative, working alongside the City of Tampa and development teams to reposition strategically located properties for long-term community benefit. By leveraging publicly owned land and fostering public-private partnerships, the CRA is helping address critical housing needs while enhancing connectivity in the urban core.

Once realized, the project will represent one of the first large-scale affordable housing developments within Tampa’s Central Business District - creating new opportunities for residents to live closer to jobs, services, and transit while strengthening the overall fabric of downtown.

Read more here

Sunseeker Resort Expansion Set to Boost Charlotte County

CRAs build better communities! #redevelopmentworks



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 Partners of Coral Gables tag-teamed the presentation that evening, with the project manager of the former, Cristina Fermin, beginning with a recap of the process launched last summer.

“We had our first public meeting in early July,” she said. “We went to our first Neighborhood Advisory Committee meeting in September; we came to you in October; went to the public again in December; we went back to the NAC in January and we’re here today to get your final input.”

Read more here

Jobs

CRA Division Manager – Clearwater CRA

📍 Location: Clearwater, FL

💼 Position Type: Full-Time

💰 Target Entry Salary: $83,247 – $87,410 DOQ

📊 Department: CRA

📅 Application Deadline: Continuous

The City of Clearwater is seeking a CRA Division Manager (Placemaking and Project Manager) to lead redevelopment programs, projects, and initiatives.

This role is responsible for managing CRA projects, coordinating consultants and stakeholders, overseeing budgets and contracts, and supporting economic development efforts that enhance community vitality.

Ideal candidates have experience in urban planning, redevelopment, or economic development, along with strong project management and communication skills.

Read more here

Community Redevelopment Administrator – Town of Lake Park

📍 Location: Lake Park

💼 Position Type: Full-Time

💰 Salary Range: $118,452.72 – $189,524.36

📊 Pay Grade: 170

⚖️ FLSA Status: Exempt

This position is open until filled. First review of applications will take place on March 9, 2026.

The Town of Lake Park Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is seeking an experienced and strategic Community Redevelopment Administrator to lead redevelopment initiatives and oversee daily CRA operations. This leadership role is responsible for advancing redevelopment projects, managing CRA programs and staff, and implementing initiatives that strengthen the physical, economic, and social vitality of the CRA districts.

The Administrator works closely with the CRA Executive Director and the CRA Board to guide redevelopment strategy, oversee fiscal management, coordinate capital projects, and ensure compliance with Florida’s Community Redevelopment Act and all applicable regulations.

Read more here

Director, Housing & Economic Development – City of North Miami Beach

📍 Location: North Miami Beach, FL

💼 Position Type: Full-Time

💰 Starting Salary: $127,216.50 – $182,607.41 Annually

📅 Closing Date: Open Until Filled

The City of North Miami Beach is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Housing & Economic Development to lead initiatives that strengthen the local economy, expand housing opportunities, and support sustainable community growth.

This executive-level position provides leadership and strategic direction for the City’s Housing & Economic Development Department, overseeing programs and initiatives designed to foster business development, improve housing accessibility, and enhance the overall economic vitality of the community. The department works to cultivate a thriving business environment while promoting entrepreneurship, workforce development, and long-term economic sustainability.

Read more here

CRA Manager/Assistant City Manager – City of Crescent City

📍 Location: Crescent City, FL

💼 Position Type: Full-Time

💰 Starting Salary: $60,000 Annually

📅 Closing Date: Open Until Filled

The City of Crescent City is seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking CRA Manager / Assistant City Manager to lead redevelopment initiatives and help shape the future of the community. This position plays a critical leadership role in coordinating economic redevelopment activities citywide, with a primary focus on the City’s Community Redevelopment Areas (CRA).

Under the direct supervision of the City Manager, this role blends economic development strategy, project management, and executive-level municipal leadership — including assuming full City Manager responsibilities during periods of absence.

Read more here

City Planner - City of Brooksville

Starting Salary: $68,087.07 (Effective October 1, 2025)

The City of Brooksville offers 20 days of PTO in the first year (with rollover), 12 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays, flexible scheduling (for eligible departments), Florida Retirement System participation, employer-paid health coverage, and up to $5,250 per year in tuition reimbursement.

This professional planning role focuses on land use, zoning, and community development. Responsibilities include research and data analysis, preparing reports and GIS maps, presenting to boards and committees, and supporting comprehensive planning and redevelopment efforts. The position is designated as essential personnel and requires participation in emergency operations and required training.

Candidates should have knowledge of urban planning principles, strong research and communication skills, GIS proficiency, and the ability to manage multiple projects while working collaboratively with staff, officials, and the public.

Read more here

Building Inspector - City of Brooksville

Starting Pay: $60,320 per year (commensurate with experience)

The City of Brooksville offers a competitive benefits package, including 20 days of PTO in the first year (with rollover and increased accrual over time), 12 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays, flexible scheduling for eligible departments, participation in the Florida Retirement System, employer-paid health coverage, and up to $5,250 annually in tuition reimbursement.

This position performs technical inspections of building construction, alterations, and repairs to ensure compliance with applicable codes and safety standards. Responsibilities include reviewing construction plans, conducting on-site inspections, issuing permits, documenting findings, and working with contractors, architects, and engineers to address violations and ensure projects meet structural and legal requirements.

Candidates should have knowledge of building construction methods, applicable codes and ordinances, and state statutes related to construction and licensing. The role requires the ability to interpret plans, identify violations or hazards, maintain accurate records, enforce regulations professionally and impartially, and build effective working relationships with staff, contractors, and the public.

Read more here

Principal Site Planner – Palm Beach County

Join Palm Beach County’s Planning, Zoning and Building Department as a Planning Division Principal Site Planner, and help guide the future growth of our community.

Key Responsibilities:

· Provide leadership and supervision to professional and technical personnel within the Planning Division.

· Oversee project assignments and ensure high-quality performance and results.

· Assist in administering the Planning Commission, an advisory board to the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners.

· Apply planning principles and methodology in the formulation of various studies and projects.

· Draft and review correspondence, staff reports, conditions of approval, ordinances, resolutions, and comprehensive plan policies.

· Review and manage Comprehensive Plan and Future Land Use Atlas amendments, and develop recommendations.

· Manage and perform research and data analysis of social, economic, and physical trends, and report results.

· Review and develop presentations on planning topics for public hearings and community meetings.

Position is open until filled.

Read more here

RFPs / RFQs / LOIs

RFP – Development of Vacant Lots in Downtown Lake Worth Beach

The Lake Worth Beach CRA is accepting proposals from qualified developers to acquire, construct, own, and maintain two vacant, CRA-owned parcels located in downtown Lake Worth Beach.

The sites are located at 30 South ‘K’ Street and 126 South ‘J’ Street. Both lots are currently owned by the CRA. The CRA is seeking proposals for immediate residential or mixed-use development at both parcels. Although separate proposals may be submitted for each of the lots, the intent of the RFP is to create a unified vision with similar uses in the CRA District that complement the existing landscape as well as each other. A proposal from one developer, willing to develop both parcels, is preferred. It is the CRA’s intention to competitively select a developer with the proven ability, means, and interest to construct a development or developments, and also to own, maintain, and manage the property once constructed.

Deadline Details:

Proposals must be delivered to the Lake Worth Beach CRA office located at 1121 Lucerne Ave. Lake Worth Beach FL 33460

Due by 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026

Late proposals will not be accepted — no exceptions.

Read more here

Notice Of Disposal of Property In A Community Redevelopment Area

Notice is hereby given pursuant to Section 163.380(3)(a), Florida Statutes, that the City of Homestead Community Redevelopment Agency (“CRA”) is the owner of and intends to dispose of an interest through a long term lease or potential sale in 3 contiguous parcels located at 204, 220 and 230 N Krome Avenue, Homestead, Florida, 33030 respectively (collectively, the “Properties”).

The Properties provide 174 feet of frontage on N Krome Avenue and are improved with buildings of the following respective sizes:

Folio 10-7813-016-0040  204 N Krome Avenue – 10,500 SF

Folio 10-7813-016-0030  220 N Krome Avenue – 3,213 SF

Folio 10-7813-016-0020  230 N Krome Avenue – 5,685 SF

Any party interested in acquiring an interest in the properties, whether through long-term lease or potential sale in the Properties, or portion thereof, for purposes of developing a restaurant, bar, entertainment, or related commercial downtown use is hereby notified that proposals to acquire the Properties must be made and submitted directly to: Homestead Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)

Read more here

MORE FRA RESOURCES

Thank you for supporting Florida redevelopment! Have questions or news to share? fra@flcities.com