Planning begins for Fort Lauderdale beach revamp

Fort Lauderdale Beach FloridaOn Monday, Oct. 27, Fort Lauderdale commissioners heard two plans for redevelopment of the beach area around Las Olas Boulevard and A1A.

One plan called for one tall parking garage on the north side of Las Olas Boulevard overlooking the Intracoastal at an estimated cost of $72 million. The second option was to have two smaller garages, one on the north and one on the south side, estimated at $82 million.

Most commissioners and members of the Beach Redevelopment Advisory Board favored the cheaper, single-garage option, according to the Sun-Sentinel.

Changes we could see in the future, according to the Sun-Sentinel:

-An oceanfront plaza on the south side of Las Olas and A1A with green space, valet parking and a kids’ water play area
-D.C. Alexander Park could be transformed into a large open area for concerts and other events
-A design centered around beach elements like waves, water droplets and wakes
-A design tailored for pedestrians and bikers

Many liked the focus on green, open spaces and the designs for D.C. Alexander Park. However, no action was taken as the meeting drew late. Mayor Jack Seiler postponed the rest of the meeting to Nov. 10.