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.

Major development planned at Fort Lauderdale’s Galleria

galleriaThe owner of Fort Lauderdale’s The Galleria announced plans to develop a phased project valued at more than $1 billion around the mall. If approved, construction would start in late 2015. Project plans include 1,600 residences, 150 hotel rooms and an unspecified number of senior living apartments.

The Galleria’s owner would also improve walkways around the mall property and add new landscaping, green space and bike lanes. “This is an exciting time for The Galleria as we pursue a long-term vision, which will dramatically improve the landscape of the area and impact our ability to further attract the best retail and dining options,” Galleria general manager Mark Trouba told the Sun-Sentinel. The mall was originally constructed in the 1950s as the open-air Sunrise Shopping Center. It was redeveloped as the enclosed Galleria in 1980. Today’s tenant roster includes Dillard’s, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus. [Sun-Sentinel] — Eric Kalis – 

Source: therealdeal.com