West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority Names Teneka James-Feaman As Executive Director
May 21st, 2024
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (May 21, 2024) – The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Teneka James-Feaman to the position of Executive Director. James-Feaman succeeds Raphael Clemente, who is stepping down to pursue a new opportunity.
James-Feaman has been a dedicated member of the DDA staff since 2007 and has served as associate executive director since 2012. She brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the organization’s mission and operations.
“The DDA Board is very thankful for all of Raphael’s remarkable contributions and achievements throughout his tenure. Raphael has been a visionary leader in placemaking and community development, guiding the DDA team to significant milestones. Under his leadership, we successfully recruited dozens of new businesses to the downtown area, established the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District, launched the city’s first bike share program, and championed public art initiatives that resulted in nearly 30 large-scale murals. He also led crucial efforts to support local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Rick Reikenis, Chair of the DDA Board of Directors. “As we transition to new leadership, we are confident that Teneka, with her strong connections and respected leadership, will continue to advance our mission and foster Downtown West Palm Beach’s growth and vitality.”
During her time with the DDA, James-Feaman has helped strengthen the downtown community through a variety of improvements including establishment of ambassador teams responsible for beautification and stakeholder engagement, transportation programs aimed at reducing congestion and promoting transit and walkable streets, the development of placemaking opportunities such as the popular Fern Street Chess Park, the addition of engaging murals throughout downtown, and a regular schedule of events designed to unite and enrich the community.
“Downtown West Palm Beach is thriving as we attract investments from national businesses, whether expanding or relocating here, while ensuring responsible growth that maintains the safety and walkability of our city for residents and visitors,” said James-Feaman. “I am excited for this new opportunity and look forward to working closely with our dedicated team as we continue to build and explore new opportunities for growth and impact in the “Center of Paradise.”
James-Feaman earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and a master’s in business administration from Nova Southeastern University. She honed her skills while working for organizations like the Palm Beach County Sports Commission and the American Cancer Society. In 2016, she was selected for the International Downtown Association’s Emerging Leader Fellowship Program, which focused on urban placemaking and management. Through her role with the DDA, she has played a pivotal role in cultivating business relations, overseeing marketing, and driving business development initiatives.
The DDA is governed by a seven-member board of directors which includes downtown property owners, business owners, and/or residents. Board Members are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Commission of West Palm Beach.
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.