Tag: Executive Director Report

Executive Director’s Update: March At A Glance

At our March Board meeting, the Downtown Development Authority continued its focus on advancing the growth and vitality of Downtown West Palm Beach. The Board reviewed updates related to public safety, placemaking, and budget planning as we continue supporting the district’s evolving needs. 

Key updates from the meeting include:   

• Bike Detail and Policing Downtown: The West Palm Beach Police Department shared how bicycle patrol units continue to be especially effective in the DDA district due to the pedestrian-oriented nature of Clematis Street, the Waterfront, and surrounding corridors. Bicycle officers are able to move efficiently through dense crowds, reach areas not easily accessible by vehicle, and maintain a visible, approachable presence. To strengthen patrol capacity within the district, the department requested funding for three additional patrol bicycles and related equipment, which the DDA Board unanimously supported. Click Here for presentation.

• Public Realm & Placemaking Update: The DDA continues to advance placemaking as a key driver of downtown vibrancy and economic activity. Current programs, including Let’s Vibe, Que Bacano, and the Lantern Festival, are activating public spaces, increasing pedestrian engagement, and supporting local businesses. The DDA remains focused on delivering a balanced mix of recurring activations and larger-scale experiences that enhance the downtown experience. Click Here for presentation.

• Budget Update: As part of monitoring the current legislative session, staff shared updates on several proposed bills related to governance, oversight, and taxing authorities. While no final action has been taken, these proposals could affect how organizations fund and deliver important services such as Clean and Safe, placemaking, and economic development initiatives. We are continuing to track these developments closely, coordinate with partners and lobbyists, and keep the Board informed of any impacts on future budget planning. Click here for presentation. 

Residential Partner Meetings 

We continue meeting with residential partners to discuss district needs and DDA programs. Property managers who would like to connect can reach me at [email protected].

Executive Director’s Update: January and February at a Glance

As we kicked off the new year, the Downtown Development Authority is energized by a renewed vision for the continued growth and vitality of our downtown community. We remain committed to strengthening partnerships, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the experiences that make Downtown West Palm Beach a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. 

We’re excited to share highlights from our recent Board meetings. 

Key updates from the meeting include: 

• Circuit Update and Agreement Extension: Circuit has proven to be an effective and efficient way for residents and visitors to get around the downtown area. The City’s RideWPB have continued to merge their program with the Downtown Development Authority to maximize the available fleet of vehicles in the downtown area. The extension of the agreement will continue through September 30, 2026. Click here for recap presentation

• Homeless Outreach: Staff from the Department of Housing and Community Development highlighted ongoing initiatives, services provided to individuals experiencing homelessness, coordination with social service providers, and the DDA’s role in supporting outreach and quality-of-life efforts within the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) district. Click Here for presentation

• Palm Beach International Boat Show: Events of this scale play an important role in activating our waterfront and public spaces, bringing energy and international visibility to the district. In addition to the economic benefits, the Boat Show enhances the overall downtown experience by drawing visitors, supporting local businesses, and reinforcing Downtown West Palm Beach as a vibrant and globally recognized destination

• U.S. Polo Assn. Palm Beaches Marathon: This event continues to be a signature event for Downtown West Palm Beach. This year’s participation grew by 30%, reflecting the event’s rising regional and national appeal. Events like this bring visitors into the district, support local businesses, and showcase downtown as a vibrant and welcoming destination. We are proud to support the marathon and look forward to building this partnership in the years ahead. Click Here for presentation

• Public Relations and Digital Advertising Update: Representatives from rbb Communications appeared before the Board to present an update on the DDA’s public relations strategy and recent digital advertising efforts. The presentation highlighted media placements tied to major events, thought leadership through op-ed articles, and outreach initiatives designed to increase awareness of Downtown West Palm Beach. Together, these efforts help elevate the district’s profile, strengthen its brand, and reinforce downtown as a vibrant economic and cultural center. Click Here for presentation.

• Block By Block Ambassador Recognition: We recognized our Block By Block (BBB) Ambassadors for their recent lifesaving actions. Their quick response and training helped ensure a positive outcome in critical situations. The recognition reinforces the importance of the Clean and Safe Program and the vital role our ambassadors play in supporting the safety and well-being of everyone in the downtown district.

Residential Partner Meetings 

We remain engaged with residential partners to discuss district needs and share DDA programs and initiatives. Property managers interested in connecting can reach contact me at [email protected]. 

As we closed out 2025, our Board and staff remain focused on strengthening Downtown West Palm Beach through place management, economic development, and mobility. In partnership with City departments, local businesses, and community organizations, we continue advancing projects that enhance safety, walkability, and the overall sense of place. 

Board Meeting: December 9, 2025 

• Communications and Public Relations Update: Staff shared an update on social media performance, In the News coverage, an overview of the awards received for our programming, business update and new initiatives focused on downtown. (Click Here to see presentation) 

• WPBGo: Program director Ameila Sherfield provided an update on the e-bike voucher program, the ongoing partnership with Palm Beach Atlantic University, and ACCESS WPB, the commuter benefits program. (Click Here to see presentation) 

• Strategic Planning: The Board approved the scope for a DDA strategic plan to align our mission, vision, and priorities with current needs. The RFP will launch in January 2026. (Click Here to see scope) 

• Business Incentives: The board approved the incentive application for KYMA and requested a reassessment of the incentive program to better serve a growing business community. New program options will be discussed in February 2026. (Click Here to see presentation) 

District Services Update:  

Tree canopy improvements are underway through our partnership with the City. Led by Scott Lewis’ Gardening, crews have removed dead palms and prepped irrigation and landscaping. Oak planting is beginning, with three oaks scheduled for installation at Dixie Highway and Fern Street to add shade, improve walkability, and strengthen the streetscape. 

Residential Partner Meetings 

If you are interested in discussing district needs and DDA programs. Property managers who would like to connect can reach me at [email protected]. 

Executive Director’s Update: October at a Glance 

As we begin a new fiscal year, our Board reviewed the FY2026 budget and areas of focus, centering on place management, economic development, and mobility. We reaffirmed partnerships with city departments, business owners, and community organizations, and launched projects that strengthen safety, walkability, and the overall sense of place downtown. 

Board Meeting: October 21, 2025 

• Priorities and Funding: Staff presented how funding aligns with our four pillars. (Click Here to see presentation) 

• Market Research: The Board approved an agreement with Radius Global Market Research, a leading independent research firm, for the 2025–26 Market and Visitor Survey, which will take pace November 2025 through January 2026. The data received from their research has been instrumental in decision making regarding perceptions on public safety, parking, and programming.  

• Strategic Planning: As Downtown West Palm Beach continues to grow and evolve, it is critical that the DDA establishes a clear and actionable strategic roadmap that aligns with our mission, vision, and priorities. We have experienced significant changes in our operating environment, community needs, and internal capacities.  The Board approved drafting the scope for a DDA strategic plan that will be reviewed at the November board meeting.  

Residential Partner Meetings 

We continued our meetings, including a session with Sole at Center City, to discuss district needs and DDA programs. Property managers who would like to connect can reach me at [email protected]. 

Executive Director’s Update: September at a Glance

As we close September and our fiscal year, here’s a quick look at what your Downtown Development Authority team advanced for Downtown West Palm Beach.

Residential Partner Meetings

We met with Griffis (formerly Anya), 610 Clematis, and Colonnade Properties to align on district priorities, share DDA programs, and gather input on safety, maintenance, and activation needs. If you manage a residential property in the DDA District and would like to meet with us, please contact me at [email protected].

Board Meeting — September 19, 2025

• Public Safety: The West Palm Beach Police Department presented an update on the Downtown Detail (noise-control enforcement, including citations, and arrests tied to recent graffiti activity), plus continued operations focused on late-night activity and outreach to unhoused individuals. (Click Here to see presentation)
• Lighting Study: Kimley-Horn presented Phase 1 findings of a districtwide lighting assessment focused on improving safety and visibility in areas that are too dark; especially alleyways, pedestrian corridors, and storefront edges. DDA staff is now preparing a plan and budget to add and upgrade fixtures, fill dark gaps, and standardize illumination levels. (Click Here to see presentation)
• Market Research: Radius Global Market Research, a leading independent research firm, outlined how its data continues to inform our decision making on public safety, parking, and programming. The 2025–26 Market & Visitor Survey will field November 2025 through January 2026. (Click Here to see presentation)

Final Budget Hearing — September 17, 2025

The DDA Board adopted the FY26 budget at a 0.97 millage rate, with no increase.