West Palm Beach’s controversial downtown development plan is moving forward, but the city has dropped one of its most hotly contested provisions.
Following months of public opposition, officials removed a proposal that would have allowed buildings up to 25 stories along portions of Flagler Drive.
The city’s Downtown Action Committee voted 3-1 on Sept. 9 to advance the updated Downtown Master Plan, despite complaints from neighborhood groups that the process was being rushed and that Mayor Keith James failed to deliver on promises of greater public input.
Under the revised plan, most of the waterfront will remain capped at five stories. Areas north of Banyan Boulevard can still reach eight stories through existing incentives.
Residents who fought the waterfront high-rises called the reversal a major victory.
But the larger development push is far from dead.
The updated plan would still allow buildings up to 25 stories in designated downtown districts farther inland, with developers receiving additional height and density in exchange for public benefits. The overhaul could open the door to an estimated 6 million additional square feet of development compared with current rules.
City leaders say the changes are needed as West Palm Beach grows into a nationally recognized urban center. They argue the plan will better connect CityPlace with the rest of downtown, encourage new housing and guide future growth.
Residents counter that the city’s infrastructure is already under pressure and that rapid development is changing West Palm Beach too quickly.
The final decision rests with the City Commission. A first reading is expected Oct. 26, with a final vote anticipated next year.
