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| FORT MYERS Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) September 2024 News    Celebrating 40 Years of CRA Revitalization As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), it’s a time to reflect on the remarkable transformation of our city. From the revi- talized downtown core to thriving neighborhoods across the city, the CRA has been the driving force behind a renaissance that has reshaped Fort Myers. Founded in 1984 at the initiative of the late Councilwoman Veronica S. Shoemaker, the CRA was established to revitalize the historic downtown district. Over the decades, its mission has expanded to encompass five distinct areas: Central, Cleveland, Dr. MLK, Downtown, and East Fort Myers. The CRA’s work has been instrumental in addressing declining property values, improv- ing infrastructure, and creating vibrant, livable communities. Through strategic invest- ments, the agency has revitalized once-challenged areas, attracting new businesses, residents, and visitors. From the iconic River District to the emerging Midtown Vision Plan, the CRA’s projects have left a lasting impact on our city. The agency has played a pivotal role in preserving historic buildings, enhancing public spaces, and supporting affordable housing initiatives. As we celebrate this milestone, let us express our gratitude to the dedicated individuals who have worked tirelessly to make Fort Myers a better place. The CRA Board of Com- missioners, the Advisory Board and the CRA Staff. The CRA’s success is a testament to the power of community partnerships, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment to revitalization. As we look toward the future, the CRA remains committed to continuing its mission of transforming Fort Myers. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and community en- gagement, the agency is poised to lead the way in creating a brighter, more prosperous city for generations to come. CRA Board Updates CRA Board Meetings 9:00 a.m | 4th Wednesday of each month CRA Advisory Board Meetings 5:00 p.m | 1st Wednesday of each month Agendas & Minutes Agendas are available prior to the meetings. – CRA Approves Commercial Property Improvement Grant for Cleveland Ave. Property – CRA Approves Commercial Property Improvement Grants for Downtown A Beacon of Hope: Club Care’s Generous Gift Club Care has generously donated $3,355.00 to enhance the landscaping surround- ing the “Journey of Hope” sculpture located at the intersection of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and Veronica S. Shoemaker Boulevard. Thanks to Club Care’s support, the “Journey of Hope” will continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. Their generosity is a testament to the power of community in- volvement and the positive impact it can have on our city. Read Entire Article   Common Ground Construction Underway! We’re excited to announce that construction has officially begun on Fort Myers’ highly anticipated pocket park, Common Ground! Located at 2208 First Street. Thanks to the generous support of Debra Gillen and the community, Common Ground will feature a variety of amenities, including seating areas, a water fountain, and shaded green space. For more details about the project and its timeline ➡️ Common Ground Pocket Park CPI MATCHING GRANT PROGRAM Revitalize your property, enhance your curb appeal, and attract more customers with the Fort Myers CRA’s Commercial Property Improvement Matching Grant (CPIMG) program! Apply Today! The FY25 application windows are as follows: First Window: November 1, 2024 7:30A – January 17, 2025 Second Window: April 1, 2025 7:30A – June 13, 2025 – Cleveland CRA – Dr. MLK CRA – Downtown CRA – Cleveland Signage Program Attend an information Session >>email Xavier Colón, [email protected] UPCOMING EVENTS Dr. MLK Redevelopment Plan Listening Session Thursday 9/19/24, 5:30 – 7:30 PM • Introduction • Define Vision • Outreach Program This workshop includes a questionnaire, a history of the CRA and the MLK Area, a discussion of Master Plan Goals, a Red Dot/Green Dot Exercise, and an initial existing conditions assessment. > RSVP Dr. MLK Redevelopment Plan Listening Session Thursday 10/15/24, 5:30 – 7:30 PM Introduction • Existing Conditions • Review Public Workshop #1 results This workshop includes an overall update, a presentation of the Red Dot/Green Dot Exercise findings as well as the Questionnaire results, main take- aways from both exercises, and the CRA Buck$ game where you get to allocate the entire Dr. MLK budget according to your own priorities. >RSVP Dr. MLK Redevelopment Plan Listening Session Thursday 11/19/24, 5:30 – 7:30 PM • Charrette Workshop This workshop includes a break-out session whereby attendees with participation of team members work on physical improvements to the proposed Master Plan and prioritize focus points. >RSVP Imagine a city where every neighborhood is a beacon of growth and community spirit— a place where residents enjoy sustainable, thriving spaces and businesses benefit from a vibrant economic environment. This is the future the Fort Myers Community Redevel- opment Agency is creating. SINCE 1984 [§ 163.356, Fla. Stat.] IMPORTANT LINKS Interactive Redevelopment Area Maps Upcoming CRA Meetings Redevelopment Plans Cleveland Redevelopment Plan Update  Read the 2023 Annual Report Per Florida Statutes S.163.356(3)(c), our CRA must pro- duce a report of its activities for the preceding fiscal year, and shall include a complete financial statement setting forth its assets, liabilities, income, and operating expenses as of the end of such fiscal year. 2023 Annual Report *Since 1984, the CRA has managed redevelopment trusts to revitalize blighted areas in the City of Fort Myers. This reinvestment can take the form of public infrastructure, residential and commercial grant programs, placemaking initiatives, affordable housing development, safety initiatives, and historic preservation. Our header image defines the work of the CRA. Photo by Kinfay Moroti of Hopeful Images. 1400 Jackson Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901 www.fortmyerscra.com [email protected] 239-321-7100    Share This Email  Share This Email  Share This Email |