Plans Studies and Ordinances
Southwest Area Neighborhood Plan
When the MacArthur Foundation agreed to provide funding for preparation of the Downtown Delray Beach Master Plan, they also included funding for a plan to address the most distressed neighborhood adjacent to the West Atlantic commercial corridor: the Southwest Neighborhood. This area had long been characterized by slum and blighted conditions, including inadequate infrastructure, high crime, poor housing conditions aggravated by absentee ownership, and a large number of vacant properties that were not being maintained. In 2002 the City hired planning consultants JEG Associates to work with the neighborhood on a plan to address these issues. With some deviations, the plan encompasses the area generally bounded by I-95 on the west, SW 10th Street on the south, Swinton Avenue on the east, and the CBD zoning district on the north.
A team of neighborhood stakeholders was assembled to assist in the communication and organizational aspects of the planning process. This group, known initially as the Southwest Management Team (now known as the West Atlantic Task Team, or WATT), met on a regular basis to work with the consultant, communicate with the neighborhoods regarding meetings and outcomes, provide feedback on various ideas and initiatives, and review the draft plan.
One of the first tasks completed by the consultant was a "Livability Workshop," which was designed to obtain stakeholder input regarding livability conditions relative to indicators such as schools, public safety, parks, transit, etc. The results of the surveys and interviews helped determine the strengths and weaknesses of the community, and provided direction for the plan's focus.
The plan provides a blueprint for the revitalization and stabilization of the neighborhoods located in the southwest area. It links the neighborhood residential areas, commercial centers, civic functions, and green spaces to create a vibrant, pedestrian friendly network of connected neighborhoods.
The CRA participated in the funding and development of the plan, and will be a major participant in funding its implementation.
Plan Objectives
- Revitalization and stabilization of the neighborhoods in the southwest area
- Improve the quality and condition of housing stock in the area, and provide housing to meet a range of income levels and ages
- Improve and upgrade infrastructure in the neighborhoods
- Enhance the beauty and livability of the neighborhood by providing open space and recreational opportunities for residents
- Provide pedestrian linkages between residential, commercial, civic, and recreational areas
- Create jobs and promote economic development
Click here for further information about the Southwest Neighborhood Plan.