Edgewater CRA to Revitalize Downtown & Waterfront

The Edgewater Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) plans to revitalize the city’s downtown and waterfront areas, including the Indian River shoreline, into vibrant community hubs. The CRA uses Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to reinvest future property tax increases within the designated district into projects that improve infrastructure, attract businesses and enhance community life.

Established in 2008 based on the Envision Edgewater process, the CRA aims to create a safe, clean, accessible and environmentally friendly community with a small-town atmosphere. The vision emphasizes a waterfront-oriented community offering a high quality of life, civic pride and distinct neighborhoods. The CRA also aims to complement redevelopment by providing affordable housing options for low- to moderate-income residents, including older adults, and supporting necessary infrastructure without compromising city service levels.

A key focus is the downtown area, envisioned as a mixed-use “main street” along Park Avenue. This corridor will extend from Ridgewood Avenue (US-1) to Riverside Drive and George R. Kennedy Memorial Park on the Indian River. The park is intended to become a pedestrian zone and a focal point for downtown activities. The plan also seeks to create a pedestrian-friendly east-west corridor connecting to the west side of Ridgewood Avenue (US-1).

CRAs are established after a Finding of Necessity study confirms conditions of blight or underdevelopment. They operate for a defined period, after which property tax revenues revert to taxing authorities. The Edgewater CRA operates under Chapter 189, Florida Statutes. Meetings are held in the Edgewater City Council Chambers at 104 N Riverside Drive, Edgewater, FL 32132, and are open to the public. Agendas, minutes and event listings are available on the City of Edgewater Meeting and Events Calendar.