Call it The Ave and The Ave Not. Years of discussion about re-developing Wilton Drive have yet to bear fruit. Now the city is starting discussion about developing the westside, specifically Andrews Avenue, aka The Ave.
Expansive, development ready lots are essentially non-existent in the city, which means the only way is up. The city thought it was being generous and progressive when it raised heights in 2021. But developers continually balk at height restrictions, saying it’s impossible to make a profit at only eight stories in the downtown area.
The westside, which admittedly is more neighborhoody, has even lower restrictions at about three to four stories and possibly five if certain conditions are met.
During the April 22 city commission meeting, commissioners discussed making The Ave and The Boulevard (Oakland Park Boulevard) more attractive.
Vice Mayor Chris Caputo suggested allowing up to eight stories along The Ave, which would match what is theoretically allowed along The Drive and 26th St.
Others want to hear what developers want and/or need. Commissioner Paul Rolli noted there has been little interest in the West Side. Mayor Scott Newton says he wants to hear more from developers besides height.
Considering the skyrocketing costs of building materials and persistently high interest rates, several area developers say 10 stories is the bare minimum they need to even approach turning a profit.
Commissioners will discuss the idea more and gave city staff direction to bring developers’ feedback in September for more discussion. Staff wants to use a consultant firm to assess needs. Commissioners balked at the idea, and want to see if the consultant report from 2020-21 is still valid.
So the city will discuss ideas with developers, then discuss amongst themselves. The Planning and Zoning Board will also be part of the discussion.
Commissioners filled four seats on the board: Scott Reale, Justin Proffitt, Karen Friedman are full members, with Christopher Boylan serving as alternate.
Everyone above will discuss changes. No one has been sent to buy shovels for any groundbreakings.
