Meeting To Preview New Redevelopment Code In Downtown Palm Harbor

PALM HARBOR, FL -- Palm Harbor residents and business owners are invited to learn more about how new proposals in the downtown master plan will help protect the community’s unique character at an open house exhibit being held in May and June.

During the open house exhibit, residents can learn more about an expanded activity center and a new redevelopment code focused on the relationships among buildings, sidewalks and streets, as well as promoting walkability.

Plans include a Form-Based Code Zoning District in the downtown area, an alternative to conventional zoning that is customized to meet the overall goals of the community, which are outlined in the Downtown Palm Harbor Master Plan.

Staff will display information that explains how the Form-Based Code is used and what redevelopment could look like under the new code. Information packets and a community survey will also be available.

From May 28 through June 1, residents can view the exhibit at any time during normal business hours at The Centre, 1500 16th St., Room B, Palm Harbor. Pinellas County Planning staff or county consultants will be available to answer questions and receive feedback from residents at the following times:

● Tuesday, May 28, 4 to 7 p.m.

● Friday, May 31, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

● Saturday, June 1, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The exhibit will also be displayed from June 4-6 at the Rheba Sutton White Chapel, 1190 Georgia Ave., Palm Harbor. County staff or consultants will be available at the chapel at the following times:

● Tuesday, June 4, 4 to 7 p.m.

● Wednesday, June 5, 8 to 11 a.m.

● Thursday, June 6, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Form-Based Code guides the development and redevelopment of properties within a specific area. Compared to conventional zoning, Form-Based Code puts less emphasis on the use inside a building and more on its form and placement, location of parking, treatment of public/private spaces and other aspects. Overall, the code results in more predictable redevelopment that enhances the community’s character.

Additional community engagement events will be scheduled in the coming months.

To view the draft Form-Based Code and associated master plan, click here.