Delray Redevelopment Project Wins State Award; Delray CRA One of Twelve Winners

Delray Beach, FL, November 11, 2011 --(PR.com)-- The Delray Beach Community Redevelopment Agency was one of 12 organizations throughout the state with redevelopment projects recognized by the Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA). The awards are given to projects that exhibit the best practices in Florida redevelopment over the past year. The winners were honored during the FRA’s 2011 Annual Conference awards dinner, held October 20 at the Hilton Orlando.

This year, the Delray Beach CRA received the award for “Outstanding Affordable Housing Project” for the renovation of Palm Manor Apartments, located in the first block of Southwest Ninth Avenue. The CRA originally acquired these 25 blighted apartments with the intent of demolishing them and adding the property to a larger redevelopment parcel. But, after recognizing the need for quality affordable rental housing, the agency proceeded with a complete interior and exterior renovation of the three-building complex. The project was completed in two phases to avoid displacing residents, and cost approximately $1.1 million.

“This project has had such a positive impact on the community,” said CRA Executive Director Diane Colonna. “The area looks much better, and the residents in the neighborhood feel good about the improvements they see. It’s nice to have the FRA recognize these achievements, as well.”

The FRA awards committee carefully selected this year’s winners from more than 60 entries. Although only a few projects received awards, all of the entries embodied the spirit of successful community redevelopment and revitalization. “Through a lot of hard work, successful partnerships and local support, these projects were completed and have helped to rebuild that community in some way,” said Kurt Easton, FRA President.

Founded in 1974, the FRA is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to assisting Florida professionals and volunteers in community revitalization efforts. With its mission of “transforming spaces, revitalizing places,” the FRA is committed to providing a forum for its more than 300 members to share knowledge and common experiences regarding revitalization opportunities and issues. The FRA advocates for quality urban economic development and urban infill, and serves as a statewide clearinghouse for redevelopment information.

For more information about the FRA and its annual awards program, contact Erin Schmidt at (850) 386-9100 or visit www.redevelopment.net. For more information about the CRA, visit www.delraycra.org or contact the CRA office at (561) 276-8640.

###