Westgate CRA seeks to boost housing density by 3000 units amid redevelopment plans

A significant proposal to boost housing density in Palm Beach County took center stage at the Planning Commission meeting on January 10, 2025. The Westgate Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) presented a request to increase its density bonus pool by 3,000 units, raising the total from 1,300 to 4,310 units. This move aims to expedite redevelopment efforts and address the growing demand for affordable housing in the area.

Elize Michel, the director of the Westgate CRA, emphasized the need for this increase, citing a depletion of the current pool due to ongoing residential developments. The proposal is particularly driven by plans for the redevelopment of the Palm Beach Kennel Club site, which spans 42 acres and is poised to support higher density housing. Michel noted that the CRA's initiative aligns with the county's goals for urban infill housing and economic revitalization.

The proposed amendment is designed to streamline the redevelopment process by reducing the need for future land use amendments, thereby accelerating housing production. The CRA's plans also reflect a broader strategy to enhance transit-oriented development and mixed-use density clusters along major roadways within the district.

Public support for the initiative was voiced by Alex Holiday, representing the Frisbee Group and Terra Group, who highlighted the necessity for affordable housing for essential workers in the community. He urged the commission to back the CRA's proposal, framing it as a pragmatic solution to the county's housing challenges.

Commissioners expressed their support, with discussions touching on the importance of adequate infrastructure and transportation to accommodate the anticipated growth. The meeting concluded with a recommendation for approval, marking a pivotal step towards addressing housing needs in Palm Beach County.