Archives: News

Meet Courtney Simoncelli, originally from a small town in Connecticut and built her career in South Florida’s hospitality and events industry.  She calls Downtown West Palm Beach home, where she lives with her husband, Michael, and their mini schnauzer, Milton. 

How did you end up in Downtown West Palm Beach? 

Ten years ago, I moved to Florida to attend Florida State University. After graduation, I began my career here and have called West Palm Beach home ever since.  I’ve built my career in hospitality, sales, and events, specializing in creating unforgettable weddings and social celebrations. I’m currently the Senior Catering Sales Manager at The Ben, Autograph Collection, where I have the privilege of working with incredible clients and talented vendors to bring meaningful celebrations and milestone moments to life. Family and community have always been important to me, and I love that my work connects me to both every day.  

What do you like most about being in Downtown West Palm Beach?
From the moment I moved to West Palm Beach, I knew I wanted to live Downtown as I was drawn to the lively energy, walkability, and sense of community. Living Downtown puts me right in the middle of everything — just steps away from the waterfront, local events, and incredible shops and restaurants. This area feels like a true community where you are always greeted by friendly and familiar faces, but there’s also always something new and exciting happening.  

What do you do for fun in Downtown West Palm Beach? 

My absolute favorite thing to do is stroll the West Palm Beach GreenMarket — the best Saturday tradition! I also love trying new restaurants in CityPlace and on Clematis Street, as well as attending festivals and community events. I often meet friends at some of our favorite spots like Elisabetta’s or Galley at the Hilton, and my husband and I love a date night at Felice or anywhere in CityPlace (our very first date was at Barrio!). When family visits, I show off the city with a boat tour through Visit Palm Beach or introduce them to the incredible culinary scene with West Palm Beach Food Tours. Of course, I always encourage newcomers to stop by The Ben — because it’s truly one of Downtown West Palm Beach’s gems. With stunning waterfront rooftop views and a vibrant, inviting atmosphere, it embodies the spirit of our city. 

How has Downtown West Palm Beach evolved since you’ve been here? 

Downtown has grown so much in terms of dining, culture, and entertainment, and feels more dynamic every year. Professionally, it’s exciting to be a part of the hospitality industry in a place that continues to generate tourism and draw more visitors, events, and businesses. Personally, I love seeing all of the new local businesses come to life and flourish as the city expands. I think Downtown will continue to evolve as a premier South Florida destination while maintaining the local charm and character that make it so special.  

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]. 

Meet Nicholas Bixler, an associate attorney with the Downtown West Palm Beach firm Lewis, Longman & Walker, specializing in government, land use, and real estate law. Born and raised in Racine, Wisconsin, Bixler, who is married to Pilates studio owner Lisa Gordon, came to South Florida to attend undergraduate university and law school. The couple have a King Charles Cavalier named Ruby who travels almost everywhere with them (“Downtown is very dog-friendly!” he notes). Bixler is also involved with local nonprofits Connect West Palm Beach and New City Players and has served on the city’s Affordable Housing Committee and Bike Master Plan Steering Committee.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT BEING IN DOWNTOWN WEST PALM BEACH?
I appreciate the connectivity, walkability, and livability. More specifically, we like the food and cultural offerings that Downtown West Palm Beach uniquely provides. It is a great city that balances living, working, and playing. Also, easy proximity to everything you need, from dining and entertainment to travel and shopping. I can get around Downtown car-free (chances are you have seen me on my electric scooter).

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR FUN IN DOWNTOWN WEST PALM BEACH?
Working out of 360 Rosemary, I spend a lot of time within CityPlace, frequenting Adrienne’s and Harry’s. There are so many other great places to eat and drink, it is hard to name them all, but we love local establishments like Avocado Grill, Blind Monk, Sour Seed Bagels, and Juicy Cocktail Bar. We also go to West Palm Beach GreenMarket on Saturdays, during the season. And perhaps the spot we most often take out-of-town guests is the rooftop at The Ben Hotel.

HOW HAS DOWNTOWN WEST PALM BEACH EVOLVED SINCE YOU’VE BEEN HERE?
In the 2010s, it was a much more seasonal population, and there were not a lot of people around Downtown after work hours in the offseason. Now, it seems like there is a much better mix of residents and office workers, which adds to the vibrancy. The “Wall Street of the South” movement has certainly added to the mix of professionals that are Downtown, making it a more dynamic place to be. Downtown is an engaging place, and with so many people and businesses moving here, my network has expanded tremendously.

I also have certainly enjoyed the influx of new restaurants that have come with our city’s growth. Downtown West Palm Beach offers a tremendous blend of the charm and character of smaller or mid-sized city, but with the amenities of a cosmopolitan international city.

Looking to the future, I see West Palm Beach continuing to grow tastefully. Downtown and its waterfront will continue to be a destination that draws people from across the county, state, and the entire U.S. I envision more people wanting to live and work here, and Downtown is perfectly positioned to accommodate that growth.

THE DOWNTOWNERS next profile will be in The Palm Beach Post Accent on OCT. 30.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Downtown West Palm Beach and the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District, visit DowntownWPB.com.

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.

WHAT:  The public is invited to join the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) for a dedication event to celebrate the addition of three colorful new benches designed by local artists at the Fern Street Chess Park in downtown West Palm Beach. The event marks the third anniversary of the park’s opening.

The imaginative creations were designed by local artists. One bench will be dedicated in memory of Ena Peppercorn Bratter, sponsored by Joshua, Samantha, and Maximo Bratter of BRATTER PA, timed to celebrate her life and to bring attention to Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The artwork names, descriptions and designers are:

Artists & Artwork

AI’s Pretty Pink Blender by Bridget Vizoso
Dedicated to Ena Peppercorn Bratter, “AI’s Pretty Pink Blender” is a digital collage that merges artificial intelligence with artistic manipulation to explore the color pink and its deep entanglement with femininity—an artificial societal construct that shapes female identity from birth. Composed of AI-generated imagery, the piece is guided by prompts inspired by the cultural and symbolic associations of breast cancer awareness and the feminine experience.

A Moment to Reflect by Mayling Pao
This beautiful pattern of roses against tropical palms invites the viewer to sit and take the time to appreciate the moment.

Parrots in Paradise by Lisa Kaw
This piece features a lush pink oasis nestled in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach. Step into this tropical retreat, where swaying palms provide a tranquil escape, and the vibrant energy of nature thrives amid the cityscape.

The Fern Street Chess Park opened on National Chess Day, October 8, 2022, and has received national recognition for bringing together a diverse community through the game of chess.

WHO:  Interviews will be available with:

• Teneka James-Feaman, DDA Executive Director
• Samantha Bratter and Joshua Bratter (BRATTER PA)
• Sherryl Muriente, DDA Public Realm Director

WHEN:  Monday, September 29   |  10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Fern Street Chess Park | 402 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach

Media contact: Tony Theissen
rbb Communications
[email protected]

Meet Claudia and Peter Kajanoja, two local business owners who recognized early on that Downtown West Palm Beach was the ideal place to follow their dreams. Claudia, a certified public accountant, is from Cali, Colombia. In 2009, she took a leap into entrepreneurship and started her first business, Strategic Consulting LLC, in Downtown West Palm Beach Peter Kajanoja was born in Paimio, Finland. In 2009, he also founded his own firm — Psk-Distribution — a lumber-importing business.

What brought you two to Downtown West Palm Beach?

Claudia: We went to university nearby, fell in love with each other, and then fell in love with the Downtown District, so we got married and moved here after graduation. We are now the proud parents of two wonderful kids! And just last year we expanded our entrepreneurial adventure when we launched Nordic
Tree Water, the first USDA-certified organic 100% birch water beverage in the United States. Nordic’s headquarters are here in Downtown West Palm Beach.

What do you like about being in Downtown West Palm Beach

Peter: Downtown West Palm Beach is captivating! It’s a safe, beautiful, charming area brimming with activities. You’ll discover stunning new murals and art around every corner. Just a quick stroll and you’ll be able to enjoy incredible water views. And we’re so close to everything — shopping, dining and entertainment. The quality of life here is unmatched.

How do you and your family have fun in Downtown West Palm Beach?

Claudia: We love taking our kids to Sloan’s Ice Cream on Clematis Street. We also enjoy drinking coffee, and there are plenty of fantastic spots in the area, including Johan’s Joe, Subculture Coffee, and Salento Coffee.

Peter: If we’re out for a stroll and want a quick bite, Green Olive Market Place is a great option. We always have a good time during happy hour at Avocado Grill, and True Kitchen in CityPlace is our go-to for dinner. On weekends, you can often find us enjoying the West Palm Beach GreenMarket in the morning (during season) and strolling through CityPlace in the afternoon.

How has Downtown West Palm Beach evolved since you’ve been here?

Claudia: For 17 years, we’ve called Downtown West Palm Beach home, and the transformation has been extraordinary. What was once a quiet area blossomed into a vibrant hub filled with life and energy. The Brightline train has made access to the rest of South Florida seamless. And CityPlace has turned into a stunning venue for families and friends to connect and create memories. The surge of new schools, universities, hotels, businesses, and luxury apartment buildings prove that the area is thriving. Yet, through all this growth, we still cherish and support our beloved mom-and-pop shops, preserving the unique small-town spirit that defines Downtown West Palm Beach.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (July 31, 2025) — The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (WPB DDA) Board of Directors has appointed Tim Harris as its new chairman. Harris has been on the organization’s board since 2011 and previously served as vice-chair from 2012-2015. At the July 29 meeting of the WPB DDA, Harris was elected to succeed former chairman Richard V. Reikenis, who will remain as a board member, effective immediately.  

Harris, a lifelong resident of West Palm Beach whose family moved from Ohio when he was less than a year old, brings a blend of local insight, deep community commitment, and professional excellence to the leadership of the WPB DDA. Upon moving to Downtown West Palm Beach in 2002, Harris has been actively representing stakeholders engaged in residential interests, business ownership, and district-wide planning to support downtown’s growth. In 2007, Harris became the founding president of the West Palm Beach Downtown Neighborhood Association, an organization that advocates for the safety, well-being, and quality of life of downtown residents. Alongside his involvement with the WPB DDA, Harris has also worked closely over the years with the City of West Palm Beach, including serving on the Attainable Workforce Housing Committee, Downtown Action Committee (Zoning), and Waterfront Design Committee. 

“Serving Downtown West Palm Beach is not just a role—it’s personal,” Harris stated upon his appointment. “I’m honored to lead as Chair of the WPB DDA board, collaborating with my fellow directors, the executive team, the City of West Palm Beach, and the broader community to build on our momentum.”  

Professionally, Harris is a senior Realtor with Douglas Elliman in Palm Beach with more than 26 years’ experience in luxury real estate and specializing in pre- and new-construction condominiums. He is a member in good standing and has served on the Board of Directors of the National Association of REALTORS®, Florida Realtors Association, and Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches, for which he also served as president.  His dual perspective as both resident and Realtor gives him a nuanced view of the district’s needs to foster a downtown that balances economic growth, resident-friendly design, and inclusive programming so all who work, live, and play in Downtown West Palm Beach feel a true sense of belonging. 

“The WPB DDA is ideally positioned to collaborate with community and commercial partners to guide strategic capital improvements, promote thoughtful civic enhancements, and curate placemaking events that reflect our distinctive identity,” Harris continued. “Downtown West Palm Beach’s evolution from a quiet waterfront town into a vibrant hub of entertainment and business with an identity and energy all its own has truly been extraordinary. I’m committed to ensuring that Downtown remains a dynamic and welcoming center for residents, businesses, and visitors—today and into the future.” 

About the Downtown Development Authority     

The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities.  For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873.  

Meet Diogo and Gabriela Deabreu, the husband and-wife team behind the popular yogurt shop Peachwave of West Palm Beach. They’re a family of five, with three kids and two dogs. After years of enjoying visits to Palm Beach County, the pandemic shifted their priorities, leading them to relocate from Connecticut and make the area their permanent home.

How did you end up in Downtown West Palm Beach? 

Diogo: The area has always held a special place in our hearts. The city’s energy was captivating, and we felt an exciting vibe. And as a lifelong serial entrepreneur with experience in the yogurt shop business, I could really see the potential of the Downtown District.

Gabriela: During our visits, I always envisioned a family-run frozen yogurt shop right here in Downtown West Palm Beach, where our family could personally serve the community. I could feel the growth that was about to happen and was absolutely captivated by Clematis Street ― it’s so charming and authentic that I knew immediately “this is the place!”

What do you like most about being in Downtown West Palm Beach?

Gabriela: Downtown West Palm Beach is unlike any other downtown. There’s a unique cultural blend that makes it truly magical and distinct. Despite its size, it feels like a close-knit neighborhood community. People genuinely care about each other, and there’s a strong sense of familiarity.

Diogo: Since opening Peachwave, we’ve forged incredible connections and received tremendous support from city employees, organizations like the DDA and the West Palm Beach Police Department, and our neighboring businesses. The Downtown District is remarkably clean and pleasant. And we’re so close to so many great restaurants, attractions and the water. Everything we need is within easy walking distance.

What do you do for fun in Downtown West Palm Beach?

Gabriela: Exploring new restaurants Downtown is one of our favorite pastimes. We love discovering new places, savoring unique flavors, and being amazed by the creativity of each local chef. During the season, the GreenMarket and the Antique and Flea Market on Clematis Street are our must-visit spots every Saturday.

Diogo: Spruzzo Rooftop at the Ben Hotel is our go-to spot for enjoying a drink and a bite while taking in the stunning views. When we are with our kids, our routine is a delicious, authentic pizza at Hot Pie Restaurant followed by a refreshing, homemade froyo or gelato at Peachwave Frozen Yogurt, of course.

How was Downtown West Palm Beach evolved since you’ve been here? 

Diogo: : It has undergone a remarkable transformation since we arrived. Many new high-end companies have relocated here and the waterfront along the canal has been completely renovated, creating a beautiful and inviting space. A new generation has emerged, eager to embrace the city’s potential and drive innovation. There’s a palpable energy and we’re thrilled to be part of it.