West Palm Beach is reimagining its downtown waterfront. The waterfront area in question is the area along the intracoastal from the intracoastal between the Flagler Memorial Bridge (AKA “the north bridge”) and the Royal Park Bridge (AKA “the middle bridge”).
An initial proposal for this waterfront space circulated in July 2023, but was met with significant community backlash due to its focus on the marina. Many in the community felt that the initial July 2023 proposal catered too much to the affluent few who could afford use of a marina, as opposed to improvements that would serve the wider community.
In response to this community backlash, Mayor of West Palm Beach Keith James decided to seek input from the community during a months-long effort named “Your Waterfront. Your Way.” After months of gathering feedback, a 78-page draft plan was released in December 2024, which scraps the marina project and instead develops a new vision for transforming the space—one that prioritizes accessibility, community engagement, and sustainability.
10 “Big Ideas” for the West Palm Beach Waterfront
The draft plan outlines the following 10 “big idea” proposals to revitalize the West Palm Beach waterfront:
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- Appoint a Waterfront Manager: Appointing a dedicated manager or organization to oversee the waterfront’s development, maintenance, and event programming.
- Redesign the Waterfront as a Unified Public Space: Redesigning the area from Royal Park Bridge to Flagler Memorial Bridge to include more shaded seating, landscaping, and amenities to improve the overall experience.
- Enhance Water Access: Replacing the existing seawall with natural and built edges that allow for better interaction with the water, making it more inviting for visitors.
- Activate the Promenade: Adding shade structures, seating, and interactive activities along the waterfront promenade to enhance the walking experience.
- Complete the Lake Trail Loop: Extending the waterfront bike and walking paths to connect with Palm Beach’s Lake Trail, improving accessibility and safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
- Redesign Flagler Drive: Narrowing Flagler Drive from four lanes to two to make more space for pedestrians and cyclists, enhancing safety and reducing traffic.
- Implement Quick-Impact Initiatives: Upgrading the Meyer Amphitheater, including lowering the seating area, adding concessions, and improving infrastructure to make it more event-friendly.
- Create a Coordinated Program Schedule: Developing a year-round schedule of events and activities to attract visitors and create a vibrant community hub along the waterfront.
- Prioritize Maintenance: Establishing a regular maintenance schedule to keep the area clean, safe, and inviting for all.
- Improve Perceptions of Safety: Introducing an ambassador program to ensure safety, assist visitors, and create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the waterfront area.
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Looking Ahead
Though still in draft form, this new vision for West Palm Beach’s waterfront aims to create a space that is both functional and enjoyable for the entire community. City leaders are expected to refine the plan and potentially release the final version by the end of December 2024. Once finalized, the next challenge will be turning these ideas into reality—transforming the downtown waterfront into a destination that locals and visitors alike can truly enjoy year-round.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project as it progresses!
