City moves forward with ambitious West City redevelopment plan

In a recent government meeting, officials outlined the progress and future steps for the West City Community Redevelopment Area (CRA), following the adoption of a comprehensive finding of necessity study in April. This study, which evaluated the area's needs based on 18 specific criteria set by the state, has paved the way for the establishment of an advisory board tasked with guiding the redevelopment process.

The current phase involves detailed plan development, with plans to draft and finalize the redevelopment strategy by February of next year. This plan will undergo reviews by the local planning agency and the city commission before moving into the adoption process, which includes notifying taxing authorities that will contribute to the trust fund for the CRA.

The advisory board, composed of community members, will play a crucial role in ensuring that the interests of residents, property owners, and businesses are represented. They will provide insights on various redevelopment aspects, including affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, and economic development. The board's input is vital for aligning the redevelopment plan with community needs and expectations.

Officials emphasized the importance of public engagement throughout the process, committing to ongoing workshops and meetings to gather community feedback. They also highlighted the resources available through the Florida Redevelopment Association, which offers educational programs and access to successful CRA models from across the state.

As the meeting concluded, officials encouraged board members to consider the unique characteristics of St. Augustine when researching and proposing ideas for the West City redevelopment plan, ensuring that any strategies implemented are tailored to the community's specific context and needs.