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Redevelopment staff highlights Halifax Art Show turnout, grants and downtown business supports
Summary
Redevelopment staff told the board the Halifax Art Show drove strong foot traffic, new grant funding is available for outdoor seating and business triage services are moving into a second, deeper implementation phase; a CRA workshop is scheduled for December.
Redevelopment staff reported that the Halifax Art Show brought substantial foot traffic and positive feedback from downtown businesses, and that the department is moving forward with business-support efforts and new grant funding.
The Redevelopment Project Manager said the department heard repeatedly from business owners that the event "was so busy" and that increased patronage helped retailers and restaurants. Staff also said First Coast Securityfoot patrols continue to provide lengthy, detailed reports that are available on request.
The department said grant funding is available to encourage outdoor seating for restaurants and other food businesses. "We have funding to encourage businesses who have restaurants or serve beverages or any type of food," the redevelopment representative said, and staff reported three outdoor-seating applications are already in early review.
Staff described a triage business-development program that assesses gaps in small businesses and prepares a phase-2 implementation plan for deeper technical assistance and connections to community partners and grant sources. Officials said the CRA will host a public workshop in December to explain how CRAs work and to answer community questions about redevelopment activities and allocation of funds.
At a statewide conference, staff and the cityrepresented Daytona Beach and completed Florida Redevelopment Association credentials, which staff said strengthens their capacity to deliver redevelopment services.
Staff asked board members to reach out if they want copies of the foot-patrol reports or further information about the grant opportunities. The department expects to return with more details at the next scheduled meeting and will publish the CRA-workshop date on the city's website when set.
The board requested follow-up on several items, including a structural appraisal for a downtown property and clarifications about timelines for pilot projects; staff said they would follow up by the next meeting.
