West Palm Beach is taking a fresh look at its waterfront, and the conversation is evolving.
City leaders are exploring a concept that would transform parts of the Flagler Drive corridor into expanded green space, creating a more park-like setting along the water. The idea focuses on improving access, adding green space, and better connecting the waterfront to downtown.
A key piece of the concept includes reworking traffic patterns and potentially shifting sections of Flagler Drive, replacing roadway with lawn and public gathering space.
Since the initial rollout, the city has now paused the project to gather more community input. Mayor Keith James said the city will hold listening sessions to present plans directly to residents and hear feedback before moving forward.
The plan is being explored with support from Related Ross, which has proposed up to $50 million in private funding to help cover design, infrastructure, and construction of public space improvements.
At the same time, the concept has raised questions from nearby businesses, especially along the waterfront. E.R. Bradley’s Saloon became a focal point in the discussion. The city said it explored a potential $35 million relocation scenario to move the restaurant about 150 yards south while allowing ownership to retain property rights, but the restaurant’s ownership disputes that a formal offer was ever made. Property values tied to the site have been cited as high as $100 million.
Other nearby businesses, including Avocado Grill and retail spots in the area, have also raised concerns about relocation, customer impact, and long-term uncertainty. Some say the current mix of restaurants and activity is what draws people to the waterfront today.
There has also been discussion around eminent domain. City officials have stated it is not being pursued as part of this effort.
City leaders continue to emphasize:
- This is an early-stage concept
- The project is currently paused for community input
- No final decisions have been made
- No timeline is set
- Any future plan will go through a public process
The goal remains to create a more accessible, connected waterfront that stays public and reflects community priorities.
For now, it is a concept under discussion, not a finalized plan.
