Merritt Island board outlines economic redevelopment strategies amid blight concerns

The Brevard County Commission Workshop held on March 27, 2025, focused on significant redevelopment efforts and infrastructure projects aimed at revitalizing Merritt Island and addressing ongoing challenges in the area. The discussions highlighted the county's commitment to transforming blighted properties into economically viable spaces while also considering community needs and environmental impacts.

One of the key topics was the redevelopment of a property known as Missed Apples, which was severely damaged during a recent hurricane. This site, owned by Brevard County and managed by the Natural Resources department, is viewed as vital by the Meijer board. The redevelopment efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance the attractiveness of the area, which is seen as an economic incentive for attracting investment.

Commissioners discussed the ongoing blighted conditions along major thoroughfares like Courtney Parkway and State Route 520. Despite these challenges, there is a notable increase in interest from national tenants looking to redevelop key sites, signaling a positive market trend. The county plans to conduct an origination and destination survey to better understand traffic patterns, particularly as online retail continues to impact traditional shopping venues.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the state of an abandoned multifamily development on Courtney Parkway, which has been derelict since the Great Recession. The county aims to collaborate with redevelopment entities to address this issue, although previous attempts have faced obstacles due to the deteriorating condition of the buildings.

The workshop also showcased successful redevelopment projects, such as the transformation of Tingley Marina and RV Park, which now generates substantial annual revenue for the county. Infrastructure projects, including a new park designed to manage stormwater runoff and attract further redevelopment, were highlighted as crucial components of the county's strategy.

Commissioners emphasized the importance of community input in the redevelopment process, with plans for a public workshop to gather feedback on potential concepts. The county is also looking to update its redevelopment plan, which is set to expire in 2034, to better leverage current revenue streams for future projects.

Concerns about evacuation times during emergencies were raised, particularly in relation to the mall redevelopment. Commissioners acknowledged the need to address these issues in planning discussions, recognizing the potential impact on public safety during storms.

Overall, the meeting underscored Brevard County's proactive approach to revitalizing Merritt Island through strategic redevelopment and infrastructure improvements, while also addressing community concerns and environmental considerations. The anticipated next steps include further community engagement and the development of a comprehensive plan to guide future projects.