 <!– |
|
<!– |
|
|
| <!– |
FAQ’S ABOUT THE BOYNTON BEACH CRA
|
Did you know that there are more than 200 community redevelopment agencies (CRAs) in the State of Florida? CRAs oversee special districts within their respective cities and are tasked with enhancing economically distressed areas through revitalization and redevelopment initiatives.
While the Boynton Beach CRA (BBCRA) works very closely with the City of Boynton Beach (COBB), it is a separate entity that operates independently from the COBB. This classification is sometimes confusing to community members because the BBCRA has a successful partnership with the COBB, is located within the City Hall building, and the BBCRA Board is comprised of the same elected officials who serve as Mayor and City Commissioners for the COBB.
Despite these similarities, the BBCRA is an independent agency that has been tasked with a very specific mission to remove slum and blight, spearhead redevelopment initiatives, and spur economic development within the BBCRA area. Keep reading to learn more about who the BBCRA is, what we do, when we started, where we work, why we exist, and how we are funded.
WHO WE ARE
The BBCRA is a special district created by the local municipality (COBB). The agency is governed by the BBCRA Board, which consist of the five elected officials of the City Commission where Mayor Steven B. Grant acts as the Board Chair. The BBCRA and all CRAs located within the State of Florida operate under Florida Statute Chapter 163, Part III.
WHAT WE DO
The BBCRA’s mission is to guide redevelopment activities such as the creation of new affordable housing, assist and promote local businesses, and contribute to efforts that will help to create a vibrant, livable, and healthy community for all citizens. The agency improves deteriorated areas through revitalization efforts which improves the property values within the designated BBCRA area and increases property tax revenues.
The BBCRA is responsible for developing and implementing the Community Redevelopment Plans that address the unique needs of the targeted area. The Community Redevelopment Plan includes the overall goals for redevelopment in the area and identifies the types of projects planned for the area. Examples of projects include streetscapes, redevelopment incentives for things such as façade and structural improvements; infill housing; downtown and waterfront revitalization. The Community Redevelopment Plan is a living document that can be updated to meet the changing needs within the BBCRA Area.
WHEN WE WERE CREATED
The BBCRA was created by the City of Boynton Beach in 1982, under Resolution 82-KK, to guide redevelopment efforts. The agency is scheduled to sunset in 2044.
WHERE WE ARE LOCATED
The BBCRA area is 1,650 acres along the eastern edge of the City of Boynton Beach. The major north/south road in the BBCRA area is Federal Highway/US-1; East/west connectors are Gateway Boulevard, Boynton Beach Boulevard, Woolbright Road, and Gulfstream Boulevard. The BBCRA area is comprised of six special Districts: Industrial Avenue, Boynton Beach Boulevard, Heart of Boynton Beach, Cultural, Downtown, and Federal Highway.
WHY WE WERE CREATED
Local governments are able to designate selected portions of a City as Community Redevelopment Areas where slum and blight exists. Examples of conditions that can support the creation of a CRA are not limited to the presence of substandard of inadequate structures, a shortage of affordable housing, and inadequate infrastructure.
HOW WE ARE FUNDED
The BBCRA is funded through tax increment revenue. Properties located in the BBCRA area do not pay any additional property taxes; rather a portion of the annual City and County taxes collected in the redevelopment area are transferred to the BBCRA for redevelopment activities. The greater the increase in taxable property values of the BBCRA’s base year (1982), the larger the incremental increase in revenues transferred to the BBCRA. Other sources of funding for redevelopment activities include the issuance of taxable and nontaxable bonds.
|
THE COTTAGE DISTRICT PROJECT BRINGS MORE REDEVELOPMENT TO THE HEART OF BOYNTON
|
The BBCRA-owned Cottage District Project site is approximately 4.2 acres of vacant property located between N.E. 4th and N.E. 5th Avenues and N. Seacrest Boulevard and N.E. 1st Street, Boynton Beach, Florida. The Project site lies within the Boynton Beach CRA’s Heart of Boynton District boundaries and is identified in the 2016 Community Redevelopment Plan as a priority site for the construction of new affordable or workforce home ownership opportunities and has the added benefit of being located in the Palm Beach County Qualified Opportunity Zone.
The Boynton Beach CRA Community Redevelopment Plan’s goals are to leverage this publicly owned real estate asset to support the overall redevelopment of the Heart of Boynton community and surrounding area, to increase affordable home ownership opportunities for low and moderate income households within 80-140% Palm Beach County Area Median Income (AMI), and to provide quality public enhancements that improve the economic, cultural and aesthetic quality of life for residents of the community.
The BBCRA issued a Request for Proposals/Request for Developer Qualifications in August 2020. The BBCRA received five proposals by the deadline submission on October 23, 2020. At their December 8th meeting, the BBCRA Board voted to enter into negotiations with Boynton Beach Cottage District Development, LLC to construct a combination of single-family and townhomes within this project site. The BBCRA and City of Boynton are looking forward to the redevelopment of this site to complement the existing housing stock within the community.
|
|
<!– |
|
|
| <!– |
JACKIE’S GROOMING SPA & HOTEL
|
|
<!– |
|
|
| <!– |
The BBCRA is proud to have Jackie’s Grooming Spa & Hotel as a local small business located in Ocean Plaza at 640 E. Ocean Avenue # 18. Jacqueline “Jackie” De Jesus, owner and operator of Jackie’s Grooming, has over 20 years of experience in the pet care industry. She is passionate about her love of animals and strives to not only make each pet look their best, but also have a comfortable and calming experience while they are being groomed. Jackie feels privileged to care for her clients’ pets, and treats every animal that comes through her doors like her very own fur baby.
As part of the BBCRA’s Economic Development Grant Program, Jackie’s Pet Grooming and Spa will receive approximately $21,186 in 50% matching rent reimbursement for their first 18 months of business. The BBCRA is proud to be the home to the BEST pet spa in Boynton Beach!
Jackie’s Grooming Spa & Hotel offers a full range of grooming services, as well as boarding and doggy day-care. Contact Jackie today to have your furry friend looking their best!
|
Something sweet has moved to Boynton Beach! Recently opened in Ocean Plaza, Scheurer’s Chocolates is located at 640 E. Ocean Avenue #10 and currently serves all of South Florida.
Family owned since 1980, Scheurer’s Chocolates was founded on the belief that everyone deserves decadent, unique, and delicious hand-dipped chocolates. Scheurer’s Chocolates uses the highest quality ingredients, combined with an abundance of love to deliver that promise. Each of their sweet treats are small batch and dipped by hand. The chocolatier also stocks a variety of gifts and products from other small businesses around the country, including jellies and jams, shortbread, hard candies, bracelets, gift baskets, ornaments, decorative items and more!
Scheurer’s Chocolate participated in the BBCRA’s Economic Development Grant Programs and will receive approximately $33,500 in 50% matching reimbursable funds for rental assistance for their first 18 months of business as well as funds for eligible interior build-out improvements. Thank you for choosing Boynton Beach, Scheurer’s Chocolate!
Join us in welcoming this new business to Boynton Beach by stopping in today to try some of their delicious chocolates or supporting them with an online order.
|
You scream, I scream, we all scream for….SMOOTHIES! The BBCRA is proud to welcome Tropical Smoothie Café to east Boynton Beach. Locally owned and operated by Nancy and Dave Chapman, Tropical Smoothie Café is THE place to find bold, flavorful smoothies made-to-order with quality fruits and vegetables. Want a something toasted to go with that smoothie? Not a problem! Their menu also features toasted wraps, sandwiches, flatbreads and quesadillas. A staff favorite is the Chicken Pesto Flatbread with the Triple Berry Oat Smoothie. We think it is safe to say Tropical Smoothie Café is committed to their mission of inspiring a healthier lifestyle by serving amazing food and smoothies.
Not only did Tropical Smoothie bring a great restaurant to the BBCRA area, but also created 27 jobs ranging from full-time and part-time positions for team members, team leaders, and shift managers. As a recipient of the BBCRA’s Economic Development Grant Programs, Tropical Smoothie Café received approximately $71,000 in 50% matching reimbursable funds for rental assistance and the build-out of their restaurant space.
Please join us in welcoming this new business by placing an online order for pick-up or visiting their location at 512 E. Woolbright Road.
|
Have you heard about the new Latin flavor that has come to Downtown Boynton Beach? The community has long anticipated the opening of Pio Pio at 500 Ocean and it was 100% worth the wait!
Located at 510 E. Ocean Avenue #105, Pio Pio is a full-service, family-owned and operated Latin restaurant with a focus on traditional Peruvian and Colombian inspired dishes. Known best for their savory rotisserie chicken, the restaurant also offers a wide variety of appetizers and tasty dishes like grilled skirt steak, red snapper, pork tenderloin, ceviche, and arepas. Never had Colombian or Peruvian food? Not to worry, the incredibly attentive and friendly staff at Pio Pio will help you feel at home and offer menu suggestions that will leave your mouth watering for more.
With established restaurants in New York and Orlando, Pio Pio is thrilled to bring their Latin flavor to South Florida. If you’re looking for a 5-star experience across the board – excellent service, modest price points, and authentically delicious cuisine– look no further than Pio Pio. Join us in welcoming this new restaurant to Downtown Boynton Beach by reserving a table for dine-in or ordering take-out or delivery.
Pio Pio participated in the BBCRA’s Economic Development Grant Programs and will receive approximately $81,500 in 50% matching reimbursable funds for rental assistance for their first year and a half of business as well as reimbursable funding for the interior build-out of the restaurant space. We are so excited Pio Pio is part of our growing downtown!
|
|
<!– |
|
|
| <!– |
With over 20 years of experience, ApexNetwork Physical Therapy has become a leading source for outpatient physical therapy. As a privately owned, full-service physical therapy provider, ApexNetwork promises to deliver an experience that is unmatched and designed to help their clients heal as quickly and safely as possible. If you are in need of physical therapy, the positive and encouraging team at ApexNetwork is committed to providing treatment in a relaxing and comfortable environment to ensure relief from the aches and pains that keep you from enjoying life. Call today to book an appointment at 561-738-0805 or visit their office at 906 S. Federal Highway, Suite B.
The BBCRA is providing ApexNetwork Physical Therapy with 50% matching rent reimbursement totaling $15,000 during its first year of business.
|
HISTORIC WOMAN’S CLUB OF BOYNTON BEACH
|
The Historic Woman’s Club of Boynton Beach offers corporations, professional organizations and individuals a unique and elegant setting for a variety of occasions. The venue features a flexible layout with two spacious rooms downstairs and a ballroom upstairs making it a suitable space for weddings, baby showers, birthday parties, local meetings, regional conferences, and tradeshows. Let us help you explore the possibilities for your next personal or professional gathering.
The BBCRA is now providing tours and accepting bookings for the newly renovated building. For additional information or to submit a booking inquiry, please call (561) 600-9097 or email WomansClub@bbfl.us.
|
SOCIAL MEDIA OUTREACH PROGRAM (SMOP)
|
Start the new year with new marketing strategies that will help your business shine brighter than your competition!
The BBCRA’s Social Media Outreach Program (SMOP) is available to all businesses operating within the BBCRA Area. As a participant of the program you will learn how to utilize specific social media platforms as a marketing tool for your business, how to create engaging content, and tips on how to leverage social media to attract new customers.
Whether you are a social media novice or a professional Renee Roberts, our Social Media & Communications Specialist, can assist you with management tips and tricks to help improve efficiency and streamline your business marketing.
|
BUSINESS PROMOTIONS & EVENTS
|
Shop, dine, or enjoy local recreation for your chance to win Boynton Beach Bucks! The Boynton Beach Bucks (BBB) initiative is an effort created by the BBCRA to actively support small businesses located within the BBCRA area. Through the BBB program community members who patronize participating businesses will be eligible to receive special offers and incentives, such as buy-one get one deals, a percentage off a purchase, or a freebie with purchase. The BBB promotions will be run as campaigns on the BBCRA social media networks, with many promotions requiring individuals to shop, dine, or play in-person to take advantage of the special offers.
The BBB program is scheduled to begin in 2021. Be sure to like and follow @BoyntonBeachCRA on Facebook to learn more about this exciting new program!
|
BOYNTONBEACHCRA.COM IS COMING SOON!
Our team has been working incredibly hard to redesign the agency’s website. We are very excited for you to see our new website design that has been updated to include the latest technology to ensure that all visitors can easily and effectively navigate the site.
Please stay tuned to BBCRA social media accounts for the announcement of our new website, which will be featured under our new domain http://www.BoyntonBeachCRA.com.
|
The BBCRA is excited to welcome a variety of new businesses to our area! Celebrating the opening of a new business is an important element in showing customer support and constructing a healthy small business community within Boynton Beach. Due to the ongoing Covid-19 threat, our ribbon cuttings are now virtual events that you can attend at home!
Click on the button below to view the virtual ribbon cuttings that was recently conducted at Pio Pio!
We encourage you to welcome this new restaurant to Boynton Beach by patronizing them for a dine-in, take-out, or delivery order.
|
Neighborhood Sign Installation and Repair Grant Program
Designed to help improve the quality of the private residential signage for wayfinding purposes and to improve the visual blight within the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Area, the BBCRA has approved $25,000 for the Neighborhood Sign Installation and Repair Grant Program. The Program provides a grant in the form of reimbursement funding for 50% of the cost of the project, not to exceed a maximum grant amount of $5,000 for installation of new signage or repair of existing signage that is in a visible state of disrepair or is structurally unsound.
Interested parties may contact Bonnie Nicklien, Grants and Project Manager, at (561) 600-9090 or NicklienB@bbfl.us for more information.
|
|
<!– |
|
|
| <!– |
CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING
January 7th @ 6:30 PM – VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON MEETING
CRA BOARD MEETING
January 12th @ 5:30 PM – VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON MEETING
|
CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING
February 4th @ 6:30 PM – VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON MEETING
CRA BOARD MEETING
February 9th @ 5:30 PM – VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON MEETING
|
CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING
March 4th @ 6:30 PM – VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON MEETING
CRA BOARD MEETING
March 9th @ 5:30 PM – VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON MEETING
|
Any changes regarding the location of the CRA Board Meetings will be communicated via social media and on the BBCRA website.
|
Questions? Contact us today 561-600-9097
|
|
<!– |
|
|
|
Boynton Beach Insider 
Leave a comment