Page 2 - 2014 - 2015 Annual Report
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THE DDA MESSAGE FROM DOWNTOWN
The Delray Beach Downtown As we reflect on 2014/2015 and look ahead to the future, one theme is perfectly clear –
Development Authority (DDA) Downtown Delray Beach is strong, successful and sociable!
was created by resolution as a
dependent district of the City The DDA Board and Staff continue to focus on the best interests of the businesses, residents
of Delray Beach in 1971 by the and property owners in our Downtown Districts: West Atlantic, Pineapple Grove Arts, Arts
Florida State Legislature. The & Entertainment, Beachside, SOFA and US1. From economic development to physical
main areas of involvement in enhancements and parking to marketing we listened, executed and partnered. Here are
Downtown redevelopment a few highlights:
include: Marketing and
Promotion of the Downtown The City of Delray Beach conducted a survey about the DDA. Property and
DDA district, Place Making business owners provided excellent feedback for our planning and use.
(Clean & Safe) and Economic
Development of Downtown Provided support and communication to the business community as we all
businesses. navigated through the two-year long beautification project of northbound
and southbound Federal Highway.
MISSION
Executed economic development programs including Delray’s Fabulous Fashion
The mission of the DDA is Week and Savor the Avenue to drive awareness to the various industries
to enhance and stimulate Downtown.
balanced economic growth by
developing marketing activities Worked closely with the City of Delray Beach Office of economic Development
that engage Downtown as key incentives and programs were launched to help grow, expand and
businesses, residents and visitors retain our small businesses.
while creating a clean, safe,
physical and experiential place Welcomed over 60 new businesses to the DDA District this past year. The DDA
to live, work and invest. promoted their arrival, engaged them in activities and programs and
assisted them with their City services needs.
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Contributed as the “voice” of Downtown and engaged with the City of Delray
Beach staff to restructure the Special Event permit and policies process.
Collaborated with the City of Delray Beach team to review the entire Clean
and Safe Program and assess the needs, gaps and areas of focus.
Continue to lead marketing and promotion efforts benefitting our Downtown
business community.
We encourage you to turn the page to learn more about our efforts this past year. In other
news, the DDA staff transitioned its leadership as of October 1, 2015 with the promotion of
Laura Simon to Executive Director. We are all energized to move forward with projects
including the continued engagement with property and business owners, the optimization
of our digital presence, the enhancement of our online visibility, and most importantly to
add value for our businesses Downtown.
We look forward to being proactive for the community and staying ahead of the curve to
keep Downtown a thriving “Town Center.” Thank you for your interest and support of
Downtown Delray Beach!
David Cook Laura Simon
Owner, Hands Office Supplies Executive Director
Chairman , Board of Directors, Downtown Development Authority as of October 1, 2015
Mark Denkler, Chairman, as of October 1, 2015