Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Events topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
DDA approves Garlic Fest support; Savor the Avenue, Old School Square and tenant openings highlighted
Summary
The DDA voted to waive the Garlic Fest site fee, heard a preview of Savor the Avenue (March 23) and received updates on Old School Square attendance and new downtown tenants; staff stressed outreach for small‑business grants and tenant recruitment for CRA properties.
The board voted to support the return of Garlic Fest by approving a venue‑fee waiver after organizer Jennifer Costello described a two‑day soft opening for residents and partnerships with local markets and yoga events. Costello said the festival traces its Delray roots to 27 years ago and the organizers plan free resident hours to welcome the community.
DDA staff previewed Savor the Avenue, a March 23 dining event on East Atlantic Avenue. Staff said reservations opened for 15 restaurants (up from 11 last year) and that participating restaurants contribute a charitable donation (about $500) to a selected nonprofit; this year’s honoree is the Interfaith Committee for Social Services, which runs shower and laundry truck services for people experiencing homelessness.
Old School Square reported record January museum attendance (2,247 visitors), large increases in donations and store sales and successful exhibition openings. Staff outlined upcoming events including a juried 'Art on the Square' show in March and plans for an upcycled‑materials exhibition that will engage residents and students.
CRA and DDA staff also listed recent commercial activity: ribbon cuttings for new tenants in CRA properties (including Atlantic Current, Stella Mix and Rabbit Hole Cafe as a downtown restaurant prospect) and a push to recruit medical tenants for 95 NW 5th Ave. Staff reminded business owners that a paint/signage grant (up to $5,000 and up to 50% of cost) remains available district‑wide and invited businesses to a March 4 social meeting to discuss reopening or updating other grant programs.
The board expressed thanks to staff and volunteers, recognized outgoing Old School Square staffer Alexandra McCoy and encouraged ongoing collaboration across CRA, DDA and chamber partners.
