The Delray Beach city commission is set to vote Nov. 13 on what would be the largest development in downtown Delray Beach, the Palm Beach Post reported. The project, currently known as Atlantic Plaza II, would bring a $200 million, 9-acre mixed-use development to Atlantic Avenue west of the Intracoastal Waterway. The plan calls for 442 residences, 80,000-square feet of Class A office space and 80,000 square feet of shops. The developers are vitamin tycoon Carl DeSantis, former Rexall Sundown owner and head of CDS International Holdings, together with the Ohio-based Edwards Companies.
“It’s a great project for the city, and the economic benefits are incredible in terms of the tax dollars going to the Community Redevelopment Agency,” Bill Morris, a consultant for the developers, said.
However, the plan has some locals up in arms, worried that the huge development will disrupt quiet and nearby residences.
“Delray Beach is unique,” Benita Goldstein, owner of the Historic Hartman House Bed and Breakfast on 7th Avenue and head of Palm Trail’s civic committee, said. “We’re trying to hold onto that. We recognize the area needs to be developed, but we want it in mind with who we are. This is one of the largest projects anywhere.” [Palm Beach Post] —Christopher Cameron