Building a Stronger Corridor: The CRA Renovates 102 NW 5th Avenue
As part of its continued investment in the NW/SW 5th Avenue corridor, the Delray Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has completed major improvements at 102 NW 5th Avenue—a commercial property purchased by the CRA in March 2024. Located directly across from the newly redeveloped Edmonds Baine Building, this latest project reflects the CRA’s long-term commitment to preserving the history of the corridor while supporting local businesses and increasing access to affordable commercial space.
A Timely Opportunity
The CRA had previously expressed interest in acquiring 102 NW 5th Avenue, but the timing didn’t align—until last year. “We purchased the building in March of 2024,” said CRA Assistant Director Christine Tibbs. “The CRA had been interested before but this time around the timing was right for the sellers and the CRA.”
The purchase aligned with key priorities from both the CRA’s Community Redevelopment Plan and its Focus on 5th Initiative, which calls for increasing access to affordable commercial space along the corridor. According to Tibbs, “We had just finished construction on the Edmonds Baine building at 98 NW 5th Avenue, and this project was a natural extension of that momentum.”
Upgrades Inside and Out
Since the purchase, the CRA has taken a phased approach to improvements, starting with the most urgent needs.
The first phase focused on critical repairs that included replacing the roof, improving insulation, and installing new interior ceiling tiles. These steps resolved the building’s existing water intrusion issues. In the next phase, the CRA addressed exterior stucco damage, repainted the building, and resolved electrical issues. “We’re also replacing exterior lighting, all windows and doors with commercial-grade impact materials, and repairing tenant signage,” Tibbs said. Still to come: parking lot repairs on the south and rear sides of the building.
A Positive Response
Tenants in the building have welcomed the upgrades. “They’re happy to see that the CRA is making the investment in the building, the community, and also the tenants,” said Tibbs.
The investment is already making a difference—and the CRA hopes the building will continue to serve the community for years to come. “We hope that through the repairs and improvements, the building continues to serve the community and local business owners,” she added.
Space Now Available
While the property remains active with tenants, two connected units—108 and 110—are currently available as affordable commercial restaurant space. The CRA encourages interested food-and-beverage entrepreneurs or restaurateurs to reach out directly for leasing information.
