Major Development Plans Announced for Palm Beach Kennel Club Property
A real estate venture has announced a significant purchase of a portion of the historic Palm Beach Kennel Club property, marking the beginning of an extensive development project in West Palm Beach. The acquisition focuses on a 16-acre segment of the 93-year-old site, with plans for a broader 42-acre development.
Details of the Acquisition
- Price: The 16 acres were bought for $20.9 million.
- Developers: The project is spearheaded by Terra and Frisbie Group, both known for their thoughtful urban projects.
- Buyer Information: The transaction was recorded as a deed on June 27, with Westgate Gardens, LLC as the purchasing entity, managed by Patrick Rooney, Jr. The property has been held by the Rooney family since 1970.
Background
The Palm Beach Kennel Club, which has been operational since 1932, is well-known for its greyhound racing. However, after the practice was banned in 2018 through a statewide voter referendum, the club ceased live racing activities in late 2020. Currently, it continues to offer amenities such as poker and simulcasts of various sports.
Future Plans for the Property
The developers plan to create a vibrant community area, which will include:
- Workforce Housing: Affordable living spaces to cater to local residents.
- Retail Space: A variety of shops to serve the community’s needs.
- Entertainment Complex: A new casino is slated to be part of the redevelopment, expected to open by 2027 with an investment exceeding $20 million.
Features of the New Casino
- Location: The casino will be relocated to the north side of the property.
- Iconic Signage: The well-known Palm Beach Kennel Club sign will be moved to the new casino site, enhancing its visual appeal.
- Operational Hours: The casino will be open 24/7, promising year-round entertainment.
Zoning Changes and Community Impact
In December, Palm Beach County approved critical zoning changes that facilitate the development of a 60,285-square-foot indoor entertainment complex along with a four-story parking garage designed to accommodate 900 vehicles. These changes are pivotal in revitalizing the Congress Avenue corridor.
Local Government Insight
County officials emphasized that relocating the casino and unlocking 42 acres for development would serve as "a significant catalyst for the redevelopment along the Congress Avenue corridor." This indicates a shift towards a more community-focused urban landscape.
Conclusion
The development plans for the Palm Beach Kennel Club property represent an exciting transition for West Palm Beach. With an emphasis on thoughtful planning and community benefit, this project aims to enhance local living and retail environments, ensuring sustainable growth in the region.
Stay Informed
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For more in-depth details, visit the Palm Beach Post.