Market voices: Developing the region
Jorge Camejo
Executive Director Hollywood CRA
The A1A project took significantly longer than anticipated. It was spearheaded by the Department of Transportation and we ran into quality control issues that caused delays. But we have now completed the first part of the contract and we will soon be moving to the next phase of the project, which will include underground work and sidestreet development to continue redeveloping Hollywood Beach Broadwalk. We are also looking at a design concept to incorporate a bike path south of Hollywood Boulevard up to Hollywood Beach and improve the aesthetic with additional trees, lights and other installations.
We have a Community Redevelopment Agency through which we are investing millions of dollars in our local community. For July-August 2020, the agency’s board approved a $20 million loan for infrastructure — LED streetlights, new sidewalks, 3,000 new canopy trees, to name a few of the improvements toward sustainability. We are also injecting $40 million worth of utility revenue bonds that we are going to use to fix our pipes. On the economic development side, we have planned to spend millions of dollars on business investment over the next few years.
Jean McIntyre
President & CEO Greater Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce
Interim City Manager City of Hallandale Beach
Pompano is aware of its unique small-town charm. If it does not move forward, it will become stagnant. There will always be redevelopment in Florida given its geographic location, and as long as that change is thoughtful and it takes into account local residents there should be no problem driving positive economic growth. The area has lost 65,000 jobs compared to last year, so we need to figure out how to get those people back into work. We have big challenges ahead. The recent increase that was approved for the minimum wage could have a positive impact in this regard.
Considering tourism is big in South Florida and cities are looking to maintain their destination status, Pompano Beach is well-positioned to be the city to look at for investment. Pompano is “popping” because we have the most land available for development in Broward County. As real estate values continue to rise, Pompano Beach’s land values remain competitive if not below market. Development will happen so we will continue to implement smart growth strategies to counteract the negative impacts that come with new development.
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Jeremy Earle
| Invest: Greater Fort Lauderdale 2021 | ECONOMY
Nguyen Tran
Director Pompano Beach CRA
