Riviera Beach Seeks New Developers for Thriving Waterfront Project
Developers keen on creating a bustling mixed-use project featuring hotels and restaurants along the scenic waterfront near the Port of Palm Beach will soon have fresh opportunities. The Riviera Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has taken significant steps to revitalize its Marina Village area, where development possibilities abound.
New Request for Proposals
In a recent meeting, Riviera Beach council members, acting as the CRA’s board of directors, voted 4-1 to issue a renewed request for proposals. This action aims to attract developers looking to build on a 12-acre section of Marina Village, which currently includes a marina, parks, a meeting hall, and the popular Rifiki Tiki outdoor restaurant.
Background of Previous Submissions
Previously, four development teams submitted their applications by the deadline of June 27. However, only Related Urban, the affordable housing division of the Miami-based Related Group, alongside its partner Tezral Partners, met the necessary criteria to advance. The other three teams—Sonnenblick Development, Forest Development, and Bear Atlantic Development—failed to include all required documentation, thus disqualifying them from moving forward.
- Responsive Developer: Related Urban and Tezral Partners
- Disqualified Teams: Sonnenblick Development, Forest Development, Bear Atlantic Development
Importance of Competitive Bidding
Elected officials expressed concerns regarding the lack of competition in the bidding process.
“When there is no competition, it gives us less leverage. Having more than one option improves our negotiating position,” explained council member Bruce Guyton.
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However, council chairperson Shirley Lanier, who cast the dissenting vote, argued against issuing a new request after the previous application process was not fully completed.
“I still have some heartburn about moving forward with this after there is a process, and the process was not completed,” said Lanier.
The Risks of Scrapping the Bid Process
Albert Milo, president of Related Urban Development Group, emphasized the potential repercussions of abandoning the application process. He stressed the importance of sending a clear message to developers about the commitment necessary to invest in the city:
“We were responsive and filled out all the required paperwork. Think about the message you are sending to the business community.”
Current Development Plans
Related Urban is already actively involved in two residential projects located on previously unused land that currently serves as overflow parking for Marina Village:
- Residences at Marina Village: A 149-unit affordable housing project.
- Gallery at Marina Village: A 20-story tower featuring 418 market-rate apartments.
Their upcoming proposal for the 12 acres near the marina will incorporate:
- A condo-hotel concept
- “Ample food and beverage components”
- A mixed-use public parking garage
Competing Proposals
Robert Sonnenblick, chairman of Sonnenblick Development, intends to revive a previously shelved proposal featuring an eight-story, 150-room Compass by Margaritaville hotel, alongside an expansive development that includes condos, restaurants, a second hotel, and a 900-space parking garage. He contends that his initial disqualification stemmed from minor oversights concerning subsidiary addresses.
“This has nothing to do with whether or not we are qualified to build a $300 million project,” Sonnenblick stated.
Next Steps for Developers
The CRA is currently finalizing the new request for proposals and qualifications. Once issued, developers will have a period of 60 days to submit their bids. Notably, all applicants must ensure compliance with the updated submission requirements.
Key Details to Remember:
- New proposals will include:
- Mixed-use developments
- Hotel options
- Restaurant offerings
- Deadline for submissions: 60 days post-issuance of the new request
For further information and updates regarding this development project in Riviera Beach, interested parties can connect with the Riviera Beach Community Redevelopment Agency. This initiative is pivotal for enhancing the waterfront experience and stimulating the local economy.
By encouraging more developer engagement, Riviera Beach aims to create a vibrant and attractive environment that appeals to both residents and tourists alike.