A decades-long plan to revitalize Daytona Beach’s Midtown neighborhood is being considered. The proposal includes new affordable housing, street extensions, infrastructure improvements, and an athletic park. Developers aim to revitalize the area while ensuring longtime residents are not forced out.

The Plan

The first phase of the project would be The Palms at Loomis, a 134-unit affordable housing development on vacant land at 729 Loomis Ave. Developer Brian Finney with the Housing Trust Group said they are building replacement housing first, so residents can move into new homes before existing units are removed.

Residents say the neighborhood has long lacked investment. Carolina Village resident Cameron Johnson said, ‘They tried to do what they could with the place. But as you can see, it’s pretty old.’ Johnson also noted that amenities in the area are limited, with only a park ‘a little bit down the road’ that is ‘absolutely destroyed’.

Concerns and Funding

Not everyone is fully convinced that redevelopment should take priority over existing maintenance needs. Some believe current housing issues should be addressed as well. The project is expected to be funded through private equity and federal and state housing programs, with no funding coming from the city.

Developers are working with city officials to address flooding concerns. All new buildings will be constructed at least two feet above base flood elevation and will include on-site stormwater systems designed to capture and store rainwater without worsening flooding in surrounding neighborhoods.

Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.