Existing CRA to sunset; new CRA requested
The New Smyrna Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was established in 1985 and will sunset in 2015. On May 13, the City Commission approved a resolution requesting a Delegation of Authority from the Volusia County Council to create a new CRA. The map for the proposed CRA includes properties on U.S. 1, from the New Smyrna Beach Municipal Airport to the City's border with Edgewater, all of the Historic Westside area within the city limits, and some areas that are in the current CRA that continue to need support. Information on the application for a new CRA is online here.

Historic downtown redevelopment
The City Commission has approved a contract with the White Challis Redevelopment Co for the purchase of 1.4 acres at Julia and Faulkner streets for the construction of a townhome project named Tabby House. The sale includes Fire Station 50, which was built in 1948 and will not be used after the fire department moves to the new centrally located fire station being constructed on S.R. 44.

Historic Westside Community housing improvements
The City Commission has approved a new CRA grant program to allow the CRA to partner with eligible non-profit organizations to approve housing conditions in the Historic Westside Community. This program follows the funding of improvements to five houses on Mary Avenue that were completed over one year ago. Those improvements were made through a partnership agreement with Southeast Volusia Habitat for Humanity. The new program will allow for more extensive improvements.

Babe James Community Center expansion
A substantial expansion of the Babe James Community Center is scheduled to get underway in July. The project will include a new entry way and a significant internal expansion of the center's room for meetings and youth activities. While construction is underway, center activities will be moved to Pettis Park on Duss Street. Two portable units have been leased and will be installed to house the indoor activities.

Third Avenue entry-way
Third Ave merchants group representatives are working with city staff and a consultant hired by the CRA to design an entry-way feature at the northeast corner of S.R. 44 and Peninsula Avenue. The feature will include signage to provide a sense of arrival to drivers as they enter Third Avenue, a distinct area known for its popular restaurants and a wide variety of shops. The consultant is discussing concept plans with Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) representatives, as the feature is planned for FDOT property.