DELRAY BEACH, Fla.— The Delray Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has recently been recognized by the Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) for outstanding redevelopment achievements in Cultural Enhancements for the Arts Warehouse programming and Outstanding Housing Project for the Courts at Village Square, Elderly housing. As part of the FRA Annual Conference, CRA’s are encouraged to submit a program or redevelopment project that has impacted their district for the FRA Best Book Award. These awards recognize the hard work and dedication of individuals, communities, and professionals striving to make Florida a better place. Various categories ranged from annual reports to building and housing projects, and we are pleased to have won TWO awards this year!
In 2016, the Delray Beach CRA renovated the Arts Warehouse, a 15,000 sq. ft. warehouse to an arts incubator. The CRA was recognized for the programming at the facility that have enhanced the cultural diversity of Delray Beach through the arts. A few highlights of programs/events that have taken place since the Arts Warehouse opened are: Artist in Resident Program, Affiliate Artist Program, First Friday Art Walk, Art Speak, Lunch|N|Art Food truck event, Art Lab Classes, and the First Makers Market in August 2018. The CRA Team is continuously developing new and innovative programs to activate the space, as it is an economic driver for the local community.
In collaboration with the Delray Beach Housing Authority, an 84-unit low income senior residential complex was completed in 2018 creating affordable housing within the SW Neighborhood of the CRA District. Carver Estates, the only public housing development located within the CRA District, provided housing for low-income residents for two decades. In 2006, Hurricane Wilma damaged the buildings, requiring relocation of residents and demolishing the nine structures in 2007. The Delray Beach CRA provided construction gap funding in the amount of $2.7 million for the project, allowing the CRA to further its mission of creating affordable housing for residents with partnerships in the community.
In addition to winning the Florida Redevelopment Association Awards, one of our very own was appointed to the FRA Board of Directors. Renée Jadusingh, Esq. joined the Delray Beach CRA in 2018 as the Assistant Director bringing with her a wealth of experience in Community Redevelopment. From the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency (“SEOPW CRA”) where she served as Staff Counsel, Renée oversaw all legal matters for the SEOPW CRA. Alongside her work with the Delray Beach CRA, Renée is an Attorney Ad Litem for Dade Legal Aid’s Put Something Back Program providing pro bono legal representation to children in foster care.
For more information about the Delray Beach Community Redevelopment Agency, its programs and initiatives call the office at (561) 276-8640 or visit the website at www.delraycra.org.
