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West Palm Beach CRA Extends Biederman Contract to Finalize Curry Park Placemaking
Summary
The Community Redevelopment Agency approved Resolution 26-16 to extend Biederman Redevelopment Ventures' placemaking contract for Curry Park for roughly eight months, not to exceed $250,000, to complete programming, governance formation and pre-opening operations; the vote was unanimous.
The West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency on Monday approved an amendment extending Biederman Redevelopment Ventures' placemaking services for Curry Park under Resolution 26-16.
Kelsey King, CRE project manager, told the board the amendment would extend BRV's work for about eight months, keep total additional payments from exceeding $250,000 and include finalizing the park programming calendar, pursuing sponsorships and forming the governing entity that will oversee park operations. “It will not exceed $250,000, and will extend existing services, including the formation of the governing entity,” King said.
Curry Park is a 13-acre park along Flagler Drive with direct access to the Intracoastal and surrounding neighborhoods including Old Northwood, Pleasant City and Coleman Park. King reviewed prior steps: a March 2020 voter-approved $30 million bond, of which $8 million was specifically allocated for Curry Park; selection of architects and engineers through an RFP; BRV’s role as a placemaking subconsultant; and earlier resolutions approving consulting agreements and the park construction start in May 2025.
Why it matters: the extension is designed to move the park from construction into active operations and programming ahead of a planned grand opening, while creating a governance structure to manage ongoing activities and partnerships.
Board members praised the work and asked for procedural clarifications. Commissioner Warren commended staff and BRV and urged continued attention to public benefit and accessibility so the park “feels open and welcome” to all residents. Commissioner Ward asked whether BRV would help identify members for the 501(c)(3) governing board; a BRV representative said the firm would submit recommendations and the mayor would make the appointments.
Commissioner Fox asked about the status of the restaurant operator selection; staff said an evaluation committee reviewed three proposals, one restaurateur was selected, and contract negotiation will follow before any contract returns to the board for approval.
The board then moved to approve Resolution 26-16. Commissioner Ward made the motion; it was seconded and carried unanimously.
What's next: staff said a programming calendar and any negotiated restaurant contract will return to the board for future approval, and BRV will continue stakeholder outreach as it implements the placemaking plan.
