Boynton Beach Insider

Each May, Economic Development Week, organized by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), shines a spotlight on the professionals and organizations working behind the scenes to strengthen communities, create jobs, and drive prosperity. From May 12–16, the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (BBCRA) is proud to join the global celebration and share how we are actively building a stronger economic future right here in Boynton Beach.

Since 1982, the BBCRA has transformed areas once challenged by slum and blight into thriving neighborhoods full of opportunity. As we embrace this year’s theme—collaboration, innovation, and inclusive prosperity—we’re proud to share 10 impactful ways we’re investing in Boynton Beach’s future:

1. Investing in Local Entrepreneurship

The BBCRA helps local businesses succeed through a variety of redevelopment incentive programs, including façade and structural improvement grants, as well as storefront activation support. One standout initiative is our Commercial Business Grant Programs, which has awarded over $3.3 million to 107 businesses in the past five years. Impressively, 95 of these businesses are still operating, with eight having expanded their operations—a strong signal of long-term impact.

2. Supporting Workforce Development

A strong economy depends on a skilled, prepared workforce. The BBCRA champions projects that generate job opportunities and skills training—especially through partnerships that prioritize hiring local residents.

3. Modernizing Infrastructure

Our investments in streetscapes, utilities, and transportation systems not only enhance daily life—they also attract developers and businesses seeking a future-ready community. These upgrades create a solid foundation for ongoing and future investment.

4. Promoting Innovation and Technology

Through modern zoning, support for mixed-use development, and adaptable live-work spaces, the BBCRA is fostering a business environment that welcomes tech, creative, and sustainable industries.

5. Attracting and Retaining Talent

We’re making Boynton Beach more livable by focusing on affordable housing, waterfront improvements, and downtown revitalization. These efforts make the city more appealing to both new professionals and long-time residents.

6. Fostering Public-Private Partnerships

The BBCRA actively collaborates with developers, non-profits, and community stakeholders to leverage shared resources, reduce project risk, and deliver results that benefit the entire city.

7. Revitalizing Downtown and Main Streets

Downtown Boynton Beach is experiencing a renaissance. Our placemaking, beautification, and business activation strategies are boosting foot traffic, increasing property values, and creating a more dynamic, walkable commercial core.

8. Leveraging Regional Assets

With strategic focus across six special districts, the BBCRA tailors development efforts to highlight Boynton Beach’s unique assets—such as the waterfront, cultural landmarks, and growing arts scene—while drawing targeted tourism and investment.

9. Embracing Sustainability

We’re committed to environmentally conscious redevelopment by promoting green infrastructure, energy-efficient building design, and pedestrian-friendly communities. This helps ensure long-term resiliency and a higher quality of life.

10. Engaging the Community

Public input is at the core of our Community Redevelopment Plan. We regularly host meetings and workshops to make sure redevelopment reflects the real needs and dreams of our community.

Bonus Impact: Additional Programs Making a Difference

In addition to the above efforts, several flagship programs continue to fuel Boynton Beach’s growth:

• Boynton Beach Bucks Program: Since its launch in 2020, this innovative program has connected local consumers to over 43 custom promotions in the past year alone. Offering same-as-cash vouchers for local restaurants, shops, and service providers, the program generates foot traffic, builds brand loyalty, and boosts revenue for participating businesses—with no upfront costs to them. The BBCRA fully reimburses all redeemed vouchers.
• Celebrating Business Growth: Since October, the BBCRA welcomed 10 new businesses to eastern Boynton Beach with ribbon cuttings and grand openings. These well-attended celebrations—also broadcast live on Facebook and Instagram—offer visibility, drive community engagement, and create lasting relationships among business owners, residents, and local leaders.
• Commercial Space Activation: The BBCRA’s Commercial Business Grant Programs have recently assisted 20 new businesses, activating over 32,221 square feet of new retail, restaurant, industrial, and office space in the BBCRA area. We also supported façade improvements for more than 1,600 square feet of commercial space and awarded rent reimbursement grants to help stabilize and support new tenants. These efforts continue to reduce vacancies, create jobs, and develop a vibrant downtown.

How You Can Help Strengthen the Local Economy

Economic development is a community-wide effort. You can make a difference simply by choosing to support local:

• Shop local instead of online or out of town
• Dine at locally owned restaurants and cafés
• Attend events, markets, and festivals in the BBCRA districts
• Leave positive reviews for small businesses online
• Follow and share local businesses on social media
• Participate in community redevelopment meetings and workshops

Every local purchase is a vote for Boynton Beach’s economic future. With every coffee bought, service booked, or business recommended—you help create jobs, support families, and strengthen the unique fabric of our city.

To learn more about how the BBCRA is shaping Boynton Beach’s economic future visit our website.