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Boca Raton Unveils Plans for Boca Village Development

Boca Village Development Concept

News Summary

Boca Raton is set to transform a parking lot into Boca Village, a vibrant mixed-use community comprising apartments and retail spaces. Spearheaded by 13th Floor Investments and Adler Group, the project aims to improve local transit access and promote sustainable living, with a focus on enhancing public transport facilities. The development will also prioritize Tri-Rail users by ensuring continued parking availability. This initiative marks a significant step towards transit-oriented living in Boca Raton.

Boca Raton Gets a New Makeover with Boca Village Development

Exciting times are ahead for the sunny city of Boca Raton! Recently, plans have been embraced to transform a largely barren parking lot into a bustling hub known as Boca Village. This innovative project, approved unanimously by the city council earlier this month, aims to give a vibrant, community-focused vibe right next to the Tri-Rail station.

What’s Happening?

The masterminds behind this ambitious venture are 13th Floor Investments and Adler Group, both hailing from Miami. They have set their sights on a 17.24-acre plot currently serving as a parking lot at 680 W. Yamato Road, intended for Tri-Rail riders. Thanks to two newly approved ordinances and five resolutions, the path to development is now clear.

What Will Boca Village Include?

Boca Village is envisioned to be a lively, transit-oriented mixed-use community featuring a total of 289 market-rate apartments, alongside 51 affordable and workforce units. The complex will also include an impressive 30,100 square feet of retail space, offering a range of shopping and dining options at residents’ doorsteps.

Parking Plans

One of the practical changes approved is a technical deviation for parking. While the initial plans required 793 parking spaces, the council has approved only 694, recognizing the site’s unique location as a major transit hub. The developers have emphasized their commitment to enabling sustainable living by subsidizing 50% of transit costs for the residents and employees of Boca Village.

Impact on Local Transportation

But it’s not all about buildings and shops; the developers are making sure they keep the Tri-Rail system in mind. They’ve pledged to construct replacement parking for Tri-Rail users before starting any residential construction. This tactic is designed to ensure that current Tri-Rail riders will not feel the impact of the development.

A Boost for Transit-Oriented Living

The creation of Boca Village is significant as it marks Boca Raton’s very first transit-oriented development. Local and state governments have been actively encouraging such projects to stimulate growth around train and bus stations. This shift not only supports public transportation but also paves the way for a denser, more livable city.

Similar Projects in the Works

13th Floor Investments and Adler Group are no strangers to this kind of development. They have previously made waves with successful projects in Miami-Dade County like the Link at Douglas Road Metrorail Station and Motion at Dadeland. Their know-how and experience in creating dynamic living spaces that cater to modern urban living are clear endorsements of the potential of Boca Village.

Looking Ahead

The South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) sees the Boca Village initiative as a stepping stone. Plans are already underway for more mixed-use developments at nearby Tri-Rail stations, aiming to boost ridership and enhance public transport facilities across the region. The momentum is building, and Boca Raton is set to be at the forefront of this exciting wave of change.

While every detail is still being fine-tuned, there is a buzzing anticipation among the community. Boca Village has the potential to connect residents with amenities, transportation, and each other in a way that enhances the quality of life, making Boca Raton an even more attractive place to live, work, and play!