Pompano Beach plans new City Hall and EPAT Larkin Center redevelopment

In a pivotal special joint meeting on April 7, 2025, the Pompano Beach City Commission and Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) discussed significant developments aimed at revitalizing the downtown area. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance the community through strategic property acquisitions and the potential relocation of City Hall, which could serve as a cornerstone for future growth.

Nguyen Tran, the CRA director, reported on the progress made in acquiring key properties over the past ten months, with 18 parcels secured to facilitate redevelopment. This acquisition strategy is part of a broader vision to create an Innovation District, which aims to transform the downtown into a vibrant hub of activity. Tran emphasized the importance of these properties in developing a comprehensive drainage system and enhancing the overall urban landscape.

Danielle Handy and Phil Mays from RocaPoint Partners presented updates on the master plan, which envisions a mixed-use development encompassing 4 million square feet of retail, office, and civic spaces. A notable proposal includes relocating City Hall to the eastern side of the redevelopment project, enhancing accessibility to the Northeast Transit Center and promoting a multimodal approach to transportation. This strategic move is expected to attract more visitors to the area, fostering economic activity and community engagement.

The discussion also touched on the future of the EPAT Larkins Center, a vital community facility. Mays highlighted the potential for a new, state-of-the-art center that could accommodate larger events and provide modern amenities. The proposed design aims to honor the legacy of the original center while meeting contemporary needs, ensuring it remains a central part of the community's identity.

City Hall's current building, which is over 30 years old, was described as inadequate for modern requirements, with structural issues and insufficient space for staff. The need for a new facility was underscored by Leanne Corston from CBRE, who noted that the existing building does not meet current safety standards and lacks the functionality necessary for effective public service.

As the meeting concluded, the commission outlined the next steps in the redevelopment process, including community engagement and further planning. The discussions underscored a collective commitment to revitalizing Pompano Beach's downtown, with an emphasis on creating spaces that foster community interaction and economic growth. The anticipated developments promise to reshape the area, making it a more attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.