Dunedin CRA Approves $20 Million Budget Highlighting Parking Garage and Skinner Boulevard Projects
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Meeting Type:
Community Redevelopment Agency
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Meeting Date:
09/19/2024
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Recording Published:
09/19/2024
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Duration:
19 Minutes
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State:
Florida
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County:
Pinellas County
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Towns:
Dunedin
- Meeting Overview:
The Dunedin Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has approved a $20 million budget for the fiscal year 2024-2025, which includes significant investments in a new parking garage and the Skinner Boulevard project.
The newly approved budget, as outlined in CRA Resolution 24-02, earmarks substantial funds for capital projects, with the parking garage on Douglas and Scotland being a major focal point. The parking garage is not only a response to increased parking demands but also a strategic move to uphold a vital funding agreement with the county.
Several CRA members expressed reservations about the parking garage, particularly concerning the debt that accompanies it. One member voiced concerns about the theater project and its funding. However, the CRA director reassured the members that the parking garage is a priority due to its integral role in sustaining TIF funding and accommodating future downtown development.
In addition to the parking garage, the Skinner Boulevard project was another major topic of discussion. The project, which is set to begin shortly, aims to enhance the downtown area significantly. The CRA director informed the members that the project would involve detours and potential inconveniences but is expected to be a “game-changer” for Dunedin’s downtown. Efforts are being made to ensure effective public outreach and communication about the project’s timeline and impact, with the goal of completing it by the end of 2026.
The director also highlighted the importance of maintaining the downtown area’s aesthetic and functionality, referencing upcoming investments in streetscape improvements from the trail to Broadway. These enhancements are planned to commence after July 4th next year, further contributing to the downtown’s revitalization.
During the meeting, two new members were appointed to the CRA Advisory Committee: Sally Kuran to a regular term ending March 2026 and Jillian Bandis to an alternate term ending March 2025. These appointments were part of ongoing efforts to fill vacant seats and ensure active participation in the CRA’s initiatives.
In other business, the director provided updates on various ongoing projects, including the potential development of the Ocean Optics property and the search for a new bakery business downtown. The director reiterated the importance of these projects in contributing to the overall growth and vitality of the downtown area.
Julie Ward Bujalski
Community Redevelopment Agency Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Community Redevelopment Agency
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Meeting Date:
09/19/2024
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Recording Published:
09/19/2024
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Duration:
19 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Pinellas County
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Towns:
Dunedin
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