CRA deputy reports May field trip for nearshore reef modules, camera deployment and bandshell art plans

Deputy CRA Director Susan Goldberg gave an informational update on outreach and several beach and cultural projects, including a May 15 field trip to the Lake Worth facility where the nearshore artificial reef modules are produced and a forthcoming camera mount on one of the reefs.

Goldberg said the reef modules are "a combination of lightweight concrete and fiberglass" and that deployment will be a two‑day operation for 48 reef modules. She told the board the viewing vessel will be available on the first deployment day and that "there are seats for all of the elected officials and for the sponsors on that viewing vessel." Goldberg added the camera "will be mounted and should be operational within a day or 2 of it being installed," and that a one‑year maintenance agreement is in place for the device.

Goldberg also reported continued community engagement around beach Phase 4 construction, noting a recent community meeting that drew over 50 residents and included the contractor, CRA staff and FDOT representatives. She said the CRA will continue monthly "coffee with the crews" at the beach community center to keep residents informed.

On arts and facilities, Goldberg described work with Public Works to fabricate precast panels for the base of the Bandshell platform that resemble coquina but are concrete and easier to maintain. She said the board will receive a more formal presentation in June with details on the mosaic love mural materials, paint touchups and timelines for replacing damaged murals and commencing other approved artwork projects.

Next steps: Goldberg said the CRA will provide formal materials at the June board meeting and the field trip for the reef modules is scheduled for May 15; deployment timing remains dependent on currents and the vendor's schedule.