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A MESSAGE FROM BBCRA BOARD CHAIR
STEVEN B. GRANT
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The Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (“BBCRA”) saw extraordinary results during fiscal year 2019-2020. With the City of Boynton Beach celebrating its centennial, the BBCRA and City received certificates of occupancy and opened Boynton Beach’s new City Hall/Library, Fire Station #1, District Energy Building, Amphitheatre, and Historic Boynton Beach High School. These municipal buildings will create a family-friendly atmosphere to drive economic development in Downtown Boynton Beach. Furthermore, the BBCRA has a permanent home at 100 East Ocean Avenue, Boynton Beach, Florida. We are proud that the BBCRA remains at the heart of the community and provides the needed resources to our residents and businesses in times of uncertainty.
New beginnings happened in the Heart of Boynton with the newly renovated Sara Sims Park opening, hosting events and gatherings including MLK Day and International Mother Language Day that brought the community together in harmony. Excitingly, Centennial Management broke ground for the Ocean Breeze East Apartments, establishing affordable rental units on vacant BBCRA land after decades of waiting for the right developer.
When news of the COVID-19 Pandemic arrived in mid-March, the BBCRA Board took swift action to authorize staff to assist local businesses with immediate relief under Florida statutory law. BBCRA reallocated monies from the annual budget and streamlined modifications to the existing economic development grant programs resulting in an infusion of cash to businesses hurt by the pandemic. The BBCRA disbursed over $1.9 million dollars in assistance to 101 BBCRA and marina businesses in the form of the Small Business Forgivable Loan Program funding, Rent Reimbursement Grant funding, and “Like a Local” marketing and promotional support by May 2020.
The BBCRA’s diligent affordable and attainable housing efforts have come to fruition with multiple housing projects being awarded, planned, and constructed. The first was the award of $26.3 million dollars in from the Florida Housing Finance Corporation’s 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program for the MLK Jr. Boulevard Mixed-Use project in June 2020 to Wells Landing, LLC. Along Seacrest Boulevard between NE 4th and 5th Avenue, the CRA issued a Request for Proposal for the Cottage District Infill Housing Redevelopment Project after receiving multiple letters of intents from developers desiring to build attainable housing. Last, with the work from the Boynton Beach Faith Based CDC and Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County the construction of numerous single-family homes along NW 11th Avenue occurred under the Model Block Project.
As we enter fiscal year 2020-2021, the BBCRA will continue our infrastructure and beautification of one of the City’s primary commercial corridors and namesake, Boynton Beach Boulevard. The East Boynton Beach Boulevard Extension will be in the bidding process with expanded parking, enhanced native landscaping, and more nature trails for pedestrians. In partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation, the Boynton Beach Boulevard Complete Street project is now including parts of Ocean Avenue and the design process will start in early 2021.
In reviewing this Annual Report, the BBCRA’s focus is maintaining the community’s interest and goals at the forefront of all of our decision making, regardless of the circumstances. We hope that residents and businesses alike will find an active partner in the BBCRA, rising to the occasion to collaborate with compassion and creativity.
Steven B. Grant
Board Chair, Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency
Mayor, City of Boynton Beach
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FREE PUBLIC PARKING LOT NOW AVAILABLE DOWNTOWN
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In preparation for future redevelopment, the BBCRA demolished the existing nonconforming two-story commercial structure at the BBCRA-owned property located at 115 N. Federal Highway and had the option of providing a temporary public parking area on stabilized sod or providing a more durable asphalt surface to be used to supplement the existing parking for the adjacent commercial uses. The BBCRA chose the latter in an effort to support the local businesses in the area, some of which lack the land area to accommodate current onsite parking and loading requirements.
This recent project created over 30 new free parking spaces in addition to the existing parking lots and on-street parking in the city’s downtown core, within close proximity to nearby downtown restaurants and shops. The parking lot maximizes the interim use of the property until a future redevelopment project occurs.
Community members and visitors can utilize the free parking lots to visit many of the local favorites like Boardwalk Italian Ice and Creamery or Hurricane Alley or to check out one of the new restaurants located at 500 Ocean such as the Butcher and The Bar, Pio Pio, or Guaca Go.
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TWO BUSINESS + ONE LOCATION = A REDEVELOPMENT FAIRY TALE
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They may say fairy tales do not happen in real life but in the world of redevelopment, the fairy tale came true for the local BBCRA community!
In March 2017, the BBCRA purchased the property located at 1110 N. Federal Highway for $170,000, and demolished the aged and decaying building to eliminate the blighted appearance at the eastern gateway to the MLK Jr. Boulevard corridor. Due to the small size of the parcel, the redevelopment potential was very limited and must occur in conjunction with the adjacent property to the south, 1102 N. Federal Highway, to accommodate a viable project.
On November 4, 2020, the City transferred ownership of 1102 N. Federal Highway, which was obtained through an agreement with the former property owners to settle City liens, to the BBCRA to facilitate redevelopment efforts. The increase in developable land area was the needed catalyst and resulted in the BBCRA receiving multiple Letters of Intent with proposals to develop the site.
Two of the proposers, both Boynton Beach based businesses, decided to combine their resources and create a shared 3,200+/- square foot professional office building; one half of the building would be utilized for a local Haitian Creole talk and contemporary hits radio station (WPBR 1340 AM) and the second half for a professional surveying and engineering office.
In January 2021, the BBCRA Board selected the proposal from the newly combined businesses, Boynton Beach Office Condominium, LLC (BBOC) and entered into a Purchase and Development Agreement. BBOC will purchase both properties using a combination of cash and in-kind professional services. The $195,000 of in-kind services will be utilized to promote BBCRA businesses, build awareness of the available BBCRA and City resources, and provide consulting services on BBCRA redevelopment projects.
BBOC will be submitting development applications to the City for approval in spring of 2021 and construction is estimated to be completed by the end of 2021.
So where is the fairy tale ending? What was once a blighted and unbuildable parcel at a highly visible corner on a major corridor will soon be transformed into an attractive commercial building, providing not only an asset turnaround in increase in property value for the City but also a successful effort on the BBCRA’s part to retain and diversify the mix of businesses in the downtown area. This willingness of public and private entities working together will not only add to the vitality but also the resiliency of the BBCRA area.
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Did you know that there is a European food market located in eastern Boynton Beach?
Euro Market, which is located in the Casa Costa shopping plaza, provides a large variety of delicious and unique food products from Europe and the Middle East. The specialty store is a family-owned business that opened their first location in 2005 and has since expanded to have three locations throughout Palm Beach County – West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, and of course Boynton Beach.
Euro Market prides themselves in offering fresh quality products, excellent customer service, and the best shopping experience for their customers. They offer top quality food and wine selections from Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, Germany, Turkey, and many more countries. Additionally, they provide an assortment of fresh baked bread and pastries every morning and also offer a selection of prepared European appetizers, sandwiches, soups, main courses, and beverages. Treat yourself to a delightful meal for breakfast or lunch – their delectable menu is sure to satisfy your appetite.
Visit Euro Market today at 312 N. Federal Highway or place an order on their website for your home away from home experience.
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The Furniture Farm specializes in custom-built furniture, home décor, nursery decorations, and more! Their tagline is “Reduce. Reuse. Refinish.” and all of their products are manufactured by hand in the Industrial District of Boynton Beach.
Visit their website to shop their unique designs, or order a special custom-made piece. Connect with The Furniture Farm by calling (561) 603-5020.
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H. LONGO
ALLSTATE INSURANCE
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When you hear the jingle, “You’re in good hands” it is likely that you automatically picture handsome Dennis Haysbert and his booming deep voice in an Allstate commercial.
In Boynton Beach, when you hear H. Longo Insurance Associates d/b/a Allstate, you can now picture Hillary Longo of H. Longo Insurance Associates. H. Longo Insurance Associates first opened in Manalapan, FL in 2013 but recently relocated to 500 Gulfstream Boulevard, Boynton Beach, FL. Please join us in welcoming the insurance agency to the Boynton Beach CRA area!
As a full service agency, H. Longo Insurance Associates offers a full range of products while providing personalized service. The Allstate agency is proud to offer their clients a complete line of property, casualty, and business insurance, as well as employee benefits.
As part of the BBCRA’s Commercial Rent Reimbursement Program, H. Longo Insurance Associates will receive 50% matching rental assistance totaling $11,568.
To learn more about the services offered, call (561) 293-4277 or click below.
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PREMIER MEDICAL CENTER OF BOYNTON BEACH
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In the stress and chaos of a medically challenging year for our nation as a whole, accessible and quality healthcare couldn’t be more important. The BBCRA is now proud to introduce Premier Medical Center of Boynton Beach located at 326 W. Boynton Beach Boulevard, Boynton Beach, FL.
Premier Medical Center is dedicated to providing affordable, accessible, and quality primary care health services to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. The newly established practice is the first in Boynton Beach to take advantage of the new law that became effective in July 1, 2020, allowing qualified nurse practitioners to independently practice family medicine, general pediatrics, and general internal medicine.
The facility is owned and operated by Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Monica Cleckley, DNP, AAPRN-BC, NP-C, who boasts more than 15 years of experience working in healthcare. Dr. Monica has a background in emergency nursing and special procedures nursing. She has also worked in primary care, gastroenterology and as an adjunct college professor.
Dr. Monica is driven by her community and in doing so hosts various health fairs, blood pressure screening, and speaks to organizations throughout the community about health-related concerns. Dr. Monica’s compassion and dedication to her community is at the forefront of her practice.
Premier Medical Center of Boynton Beach is a BBCRA Economic Development Grant recipient and will receive approximately $11,400 in 50% matching rental assistance for their first year of business.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (561) 767-8230 or click below.
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PROPERTY DAMAGE CONSULTANTS
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Have you ever heard the quote by Miguel de Cervantes that reads, “To be prepared is half the victory”? While this quote is applicable to so many areas of life, the owners of Property Damage Consultants can attest that it is a part of their daily professional lives in advocating for homeowners.
Property Damage Consultants, located at 125 E. Boynton Beach Boulevard, is a public adjusters firm with over 30 years of experience. After working on behalf of other insurance companies for 12 years, business owner and President of the Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters, Craig Drillich, became a consumer advocate as an all lines licensed Public Adjuster and Appraiser.
Property Damage Consultants help homeowners prepare for and navigate insurance claims regarding water damage, fire/smoke damage, mold damage, or hurricane insurance claims.
Property Damage Consultants had a previous office location in Delray Beach but decided in 2017 to take a chance and purchased a dilapidated building that was previously a gun shop along Boynton Beach Boulevard. The owners spent the next two and a half years renovating the property into a visually appealing professional office space. With the help of the BBCRA Economic Development Grants, the property was transformed into a 3,000 square foot professional office.
As part of the grant programs, they received approximately $47,500 in 50% matching reimbursable funding for rental assistance and property improvements. The BBCRA wants to thank Property Damage Consultants for choosing to invest in Boynton Beach!
For more information on their services, you can contact them at (561) 258-9387 or click the button below.
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The Boynton Harbor Marina offers dockage for short term, transient customers.
Located just south of West Palm Beach and north of Fort Lauderdale, the Boynton Harbor Marina is the perfect place to stay while traveling in the area. Spend the day enjoying waterfront dining, exploring downtown Boynton Beach, or relaxing on your boat.
The marina features a variety of commercial tenants including fishing charters, drift fishing, scuba diving charters, jet-ski rentals, boat rentals, and parasailing. Dine at one of three full-service restaurants located on premise, or take a short walk to Downtown Boynton Beach for additional dining options.
The marina is located ½ mile south of the Boynton Inlet, which allows for easy access to the ocean. It is the perfect spot for boaters looking to fill-up on fuel, restock on boating essentials, or utilize clean restrooms.
Click the button below for more information about transient dockage availability at the Boynton Harbor Marina.
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SOCIAL MEDIA OUTREACH PROGRAM (SMOP)
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Are you a small business owner looking for guidance on how to manage your Google listing?
A Google listing is often the first impression a customer receives about your business! Learn how to update hours, manage and respond to your messages, update photos, and advertise your business on Google. Sign up today for the BBCRA’s FREE Social Media Outreach Program.
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.
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BUSINESS PROMOTIONS & EVENTS
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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 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.
Be sure to like and follow @BoyntonBeachCRA on Facebook to learn more about this exciting new program!
Click below to learn more about the current BBB offer for $10 off a $30 purchase at Your CBD Store.
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NEW BBCRA WEBSITE LAUNCHED
In February, the BBCRA launched its redesigned website, www.BoyntonBeachCRA.com.
The mobile optimized website incorporates a variety of new features, including an interactive map of the BBCRA area, that geographically showcases the completed, current, and future BBCRA development projects, as well as the location of future Business Promotional Events. The website also contains dedicated pages for the Agency’s financial information, business and housing grants, development projects, and community-oriented programs. Additionally, one-stop access is available for visitors seeking information about the BBCRA-owned Boynton Harbor Marina, such as marina amenities, services, and recreation. The redesigned website exceeds accessibility standards via the Accessibe tool. When activated, the Accessibe tool will adapt the website for a variety of abilities including customized profiles for the blind/visually impaired, as well as other responsive profiles that are ADHD friendly and seizure safe.
Businesses located within the boundaries of the BBCRA area are encouraged to submit their information to be included in the new business directory. The directory will include basic information, such as address and hours of operation and can also be personalized with promotional videos and special offers.
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CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH TO OWN AND OPERATE HISTORIC WOMAN’S CLUB
On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, the ownership of the Historic Woman’s Club of Boynton Beach was officially transferred from the BBCRA to the City of Boynton Beach. The transfer of ownership will allow for the building to be utilized for various recreational, civic and cultural as well as the potential engagement of various non-profit uses.
The BBCRA purchased the Nationally Registered Historic Womans Club of Boynton Beach (HWCBB) building located at 1010 S. Federal Highway in September 2017 and has been maintaining and operating the facility commercially as a unique events venue. The two-story Mediterranean Revival style building, designed by the renowned architect, Addison Mizner, was built in 1926 and dedicated to Major Nathan S. Boynton, the City’s founder, in 1932. For the past three and a half years, substantial repairs and nonstructural improvements (e.g. roof repair, interior and exterior painting, floor refinishing, electrical and a/c repairs, landscaping, etc.) were undertaken by the CRA to prevent further deterioration, thereby extending the life of the building so that it can be shared with new visitors of all ages. The BBCRA continued to operate and was able to rent the facility in between the various renovations until the onset of COVID-19 pandemic.
In May 2020, the BBCRA Board accepted the City’s Letter of Intent to operate and manage the facility and the transfer of ownership to the City enabling a broader activation of the facility than the BBCRA’s statutory mandates. The BBCRA remains committed to preserve this significant piece of Boynton’s history for a period of three years with the allocation of $250,000 annually (for a maximum total of $750,000) for reimbursement of eligible expenses. The City can utilize the funds to make physical improvements to meet current codes, enhance accessibility for all users, and improve connectivity to the adjacent Senior Center located at 1021 S. Federal Highway.
To inquire about building rental and future programming, please contact Diane Valentini at 561-742-6756, or ValentiniD@bbfl.us.
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Affordable & Workforce Housing Programs
In the futherance of the BBCRA’s 2016 Redevelopment Plan, the BBCRA has allocated a total of $95,000 ($45,000 for rehabilitation activities and $50,000 for new construction) for its Affordable and Workforce Housing Grant Programs in Fiscal Year 2020-21. Program guidelines and applications are available online at http://www.boyntonbeachcra.com or upon request at the BBCRA office, located at 100 E. Ocean Avenue, 4th Floor, Boynton Beach, FL 33435.
Eligible properties must be located within the BBCRA area.
Interested parties may contact Thuy Shutt, Assistant Director, at (561) 600-9098 or ShuttT@bbfl.us for more information.
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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.
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CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING
April 1st @ 6:30 PM – VIRTUAL
CRA BOARD MEETING
April 13th @ 5:30 PM – VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON MEETING
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CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING
May 6th @ 6:30 PM – VIRTUAL
CRA BOARD MEETING
May 11th @ 5:30 PM – VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON MEETING
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CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING
June 3rd @ 6:30 PM – VIRTUAL
CRA BOARD MEETING
June 8th @ 5:30 PM – VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON MEETING
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Any changes regarding the location of the CRA Board Meetings will be communicated via social media and on the BBCRA website.
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Questions? Contact us today 561-600-9097
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Boynton Beach Insider 
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