A primary concern addressed by the CRA was the parking situation in the downtown area. With a push to encourage economic growth through construction, there was a debate over the possibility of reducing parking requirements for new developments. Some members argued that the current parking capacity is underutilized, while others stressed the importance of sufficient parking, especially during events. The potential for promoting alternative transportation methods was also discussed, alongside the impacts on residential area parking.

The planned P3 project for the parking lot south of Lake Plaza was a focal point, requiring an architect to establish formal design criteria for an RFP. Members discussed the idea of a mixed-use garage and the need to maintain parking for beach nourishment. There was acknowledgment that any parking decisions downtown would ultimately be made by the city council, based on recommendations from the CRA and staff.

Landscaping and beautification in the downtown area were topics of discussion as well. Updates on the progress of these initiatives were given, amidst issues such as irrigation system failures and cyber-attacks. The choice of materials for landscaping, specifically the debate over using sand or aggregate, was raised. Concerns about the effects of certain mulch types on drainage and aesthetics were voiced, highlighting the nuanced considerations of downtown beautification.

The meeting also covered the challenges in finding contractors for smaller landscaping projects and noted the necessity of prioritizing funding for downtown projects. The success of the grant program in improving downtown businesses was commended, and there were talks of expanding the grants to include murals and bicycle racks.

Public art projects were discussed, including the completion of a dolphin and surfer statue and the anticipation of a turtle sculpture. The possibility of temporary art installations to activate public spaces was considered, as was the purchase of art pieces for permanent display, although the CRA noted its primary role in funding such projects.

Downtown safety was another topic of concern. The agency deliberated on its involvement with downtown safety measures, including the maintenance of security cameras and addressing homelessness in the area. A new law concerning the provision of space and water for the homeless was implemented.

The urgency of adding 100 parking spaces to the downtown area was emphasized, focusing on the Fcon area’s development to offset the loss of parking spaces due to various projects. The need to fix the electrical system and replace the pavement was identified as a significant holdup. The placement of biking racks and the discreet addition of benches were also discussed, as were challenges with lighting near sea turtle nesting sites.

The Lean Plaza project, previously not discussed due to time constraints, was brought up. Feedback from the community and vendors had influenced a shift in the plaza’s design to better serve various stakeholders. The redesigned plaza would include seating, stages, lighting, and accessibility features, with adjustments made to accommodate the nearby retirement community’s needs. The possibility of future modifications to the plaza was acknowledged.