Members of the Planning and Zoning Divisions kicked off 2025 with an insightful tour of the Westgate/Belvedere Homes Community Redevelopment Agency (Westgate CRA). Led by CRA Executive Director Elizee Michel and Director of Planning & Development Denise Pennell, staff gained a deeper understanding of local history, saw the real-world impacts of land development regulations, and witnessed firsthand how effective redevelopment transforms communities.
Spanning approximately two square miles, the Westgate CRA was established by the Board of County Commissioners in 1989 to eliminate slum and blight while promoting strategic redevelopment. With some of its earliest developments dating back to the 1920s, the area is rich in history. The tour featured more than 30 unique development projects, showcasing how residential, commercial, civic, industrial, recreational, and even agricultural uses coexist to create mutually beneficial opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
Key Tour Highlights
🔹 Palm Beach Kennel Club – A testament to adaptability and resilience, staff learned how this establishment, originally opened in the 1950s, has evolved its business model over time to comply with local and state regulations. The proposed redevelopment will not only create hundreds of jobs but also expand access to affordable housing, further driving economic growth.
🏡 Residential Developments
- Nokomis Cottage Homes – The developer explained how historical plats and density designations allowed for the construction of 14 single-family homes on a single parcel, illustrating how thoughtful zoning fosters creative housing solutions.
- Autumn Ridge Apartments – An affordable rental community for income-restricted senior citizens that prioritizes quality of life without compromising amenities. While these two housing types differ greatly, both are vital to the community's diverse housing needs.
🌱 Westgate Community Farm – Staff had a hands-on experience uprooting carrots and tasting fresh tomatoes while learning about food insecurity within the CRA. Largely maintained by volunteers, the Community Farm helps educate residents and operates a small farmer's market to combat hunger in the area.
💡 Extraordinary Charities – A hidden gem, this non-profit incubator provides co-working space for emerging non-profits. Staff had the opportunity to engage with CRA representatives, local business owners, and law enforcement to gain diverse perspectives on the community's challenges and opportunities.
The Power of Redevelopment
This tour served as a powerful reminder that redevelopment is more than ordinances, maps, and site plans—it's about revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering civic engagement, and creating sustainable communities. The Westgate CRA is brimming with opportunities for smart, economically beneficial redevelopment, ensuring long-term viability for both the local community and the county as a whole.
🔍 Want to learn more? Visit the Westgate CRA in person or online at Westgate CRA!
