CRA advisory board hears update on Naples Design District master plan, infrastructure and timing for zoning changes

Chair Waller convened the City of Naples Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) advisory board on March 23, where CRA administrator Anita summarized progress and next steps for the Naples Design District Master Plan. The board heard that infrastructure and stormwater work along 10th Street, 1st Avenue South and 12th Street South is the implementation priority and that the 60% design review for that project is expected at the advisory board’s next meeting.

Anita told the board the master plan was accepted by the CRA in June 2022 and that advisory members previously recommended about 35 implementation strategies. She said six initial action items were identified; the top priority is critical infrastructure (stormwater management, utilities and street reconstruction), and that work is currently in design. ‘‘That project is in design and will be coming back to you for a 60% review shortly,’’ Anita said. Staff expects the board will see the 60% package in April or May.

Why it matters: board members repeatedly emphasized that underground systems and stormwater improvements must be finished before final streetscape treatments. Vice Chairman Matanti and others urged finishing ‘‘inside the walls’’ — utilities and drainage — so lighting, hardscaping and beautification built on top will perform as intended.

Stormwater and multi-basin…