The City Commission has continued to have discussions on the Orange Avenue Overlay. As a part of these ongoing discussions, the city has been contacted by a group of citizens concerning the development of park space and activation of Progress Point. The City Commission held a work session on July 23rd to discuss Progress Point. The following bullet points were discussed by the Commission at the work session to be part of the scope developed:
• Approximately 1.5 acres of contiguous park space.
• No residential uses allowed.
• City shall retain ownership.
• Stormwater retention provided on the site would exceed requirements to allow for more regional treatment and retention.
• Contribute to parking needs of small businesses in the area in the form of a parking structure.
• A business/financial model will be developed
• Maximum 20,000 square foot footprint for buildings, maximum of two-story buildings.
• The proposed "Rail Trail" would be constructed on the site, meeting the standards of the previously considered OAO language.
• Realignment of Palmetto to be considered and encouraged where appropriate.
Additionally, as a part of the Scope, a regional Greenway Trail Plan will be developed to place the city in a better position to apply for regional, State and Federal grants for bicycle and pedestrian connectivity improvements.