Pineapple Grove Arts District’s Newest Transformation: Northeast Third Avenue
If you ask any Delray local or visitor about how long the Pineapple Grove Arts District has been an essential part of the hustle and bustle of Downtown Delray Beach, you’d probably get a response of “always.” But that hasn’t been the case!
The Pineapple Grove Arts District has been a project in the works for almost a decade, and it’s a project that continues to transform. What used to be just a tangential neighborhood off of the Avenue has turned into its own hub of arts and happenings. Thanks to the Delray Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), the District continues to see improvements that make it more inviting for everyone to enjoy!
“This project reflects the CRA’s commitment to improve areas in need, providing updated infrastructure for the benefit of local businesses and enhancing the lives of residents, visitor and property owners,” said Ivan Cabrera, CRA Redevelopment Manager.
In 2010, the CRA not only completed the construction of a new parking lot on Northeast Third Avenue to supplement parking for area businesses, but also acquired two properties: the warehouse building at 313 N.E. Third St. for conversion to an Arts/Business Incubator, and a blighted parking lot at 362 N.E. Third Ave. The improvements to the parking lot at 362 N.E. Third Ave. have been completed, and the conversion of the CRA-owned warehouse (Arts Warehouse) was completed in 2017. Now, the CRA’s newest project along Northeast Third Avenue is focused on pedestrian-oriented development and improvements.
The Northeast Third Avenue Streetscape project consists of design, permitting and construction of a full City right of way streetscape and infrastructure improvements. The project limits are for Northeast Third Avenue area between Northeast Third Street and Northeast Fourth Street. The proposed streetscape improvements along this section of Northeast Third Avenue will utilize existing City right of way space to provide a safe two-way traffic street, along with well-lit sidewalk pathways for pedestrian connections to area restaurants, workspaces and other local businesses. The project will also include potable water, sanitary sewer and drainage upgrades. The intent is to provide unique design aesthetics with the goal of promoting the resurgence of an eclectic mix of art galleries, restaurants, and local boutique shops.
The construction is set to begin October 2021 and aimed completion date is April 2022. The CRA contribution totals just more than $1.8 million.
According to Cabrera, visitors can enjoy a safe street with sidewalks from and to businesses, parking lots for better connectivity, and ADA features. Not only will there be no more flooding challenges during rainy days, there will also be improved utilities, LED lighting for well-lighted areas, and new asphalt on the two-way street with parallel parking on both sides of the street.
With increased City offerings, including new businesses, expanding businesses and special events, it’s great of the CRA to be able to continue to improve the experience for locals and visitors alike. Planning for the present and the future is just another way that the CRA is helping our Most Fun Small Town to stay just that!
