During June, 2016, Broward County engaged the Urban Land Institute (ULI) to conduct a week long evaluation to assist in developing a comprehensive vision for the approximately 143 acre County-owned BB&T Center site which would complement existing uses, local communities, and current development projects in the surrounding area. In this regard, a ULI Panel reviewed the development and the potential economic impact of the site. This review identified several alternative long-term scenarios, along with a mix of possible uses such as offices, apartments, retail/entertainment, hotel, and casino/gaming uses. The development will be a multi-faceted, multi-phased, complex development.
During the August 23, 2016 County Commission Budget Workshop, the County Administrator brought this issue to the attention of the Board and requested authorization for the positions necessary to provide leadership, direction, and administration of this complex project. During that discussion, the Board requested the County Administrator bring back the request when the final ULI report was received and the initiative was ready to commence.
In January, 2017, the ULI issued the final BB&T Center Panel Report (Exhibit 1). Key recommendations focus on the implementation of a complex, four-phased development program, lasting over 20 years. The recommendations include the establishment of a leadership group to ensure close coordination with key stakeholders, choosing and managing a master developer and coordinating a master development plan, initiation and navigation of the development approval process, and conducting and overseeing associated development studies.
In summary, the key recommendations include:
1. Utilize a four-phased development program over 20+ years, primed with an entertainment mixed-use core, including a boutique hotel, housing, and a civic plaza.
2. Recognize the “district beyond the site” to build a regional identity for “Downtown West Broward”, attract investors, and support long-term regional growth.
3. Future-proof the site to 2040 and beyond by planning for long-term, including possible development of a destination/casino resort.
4. Seize immediate opportunities to limit cross-competition with existing landowners and other private developers.
5. Kick-start the project by leveraging the land to promote long term growth and economic benefit.
6. Establish a leadership council, with public and private sectors members, to champion the site, streamline the development process, and work with the state government to acquire funding for transit and infrastructure improvements.
Proposed Initial Activities and Initial Implementation Strategies (identified by the panel) include:
o Assemble a core group of stakeholders - including officials from the county and city, property owners, and business leaders;
o Develop branding;
o Develop a RFQ for master developer;
o Select the master developer;
o Conduct development studies; and
o Initiate land use plan amendments and development approval processes.
Given that the final ULI report has been issued, it is the appropriate time for the County to prepare for the development effort and bring on board the professional staff necessary to manage this initiative. This action will authorize the County Administrator to move forward with the recruitment for a Project Manager (Director of Real Estate Development), and support staff (Program Project Coordinator).
On November 15, 2016 (Item 18), the Board approved a new “Director of Real Estate Development” job classification. The job description for the Director of Real Estate Development classification reflects an intent to provide leadership, direction, and administration to this project. The position will manage real estate development activities including site development, site ownership and control, pre-development, financing, public/private partnerships, design, construction, planning and community outreach. The position will also be responsible for establishing and coordinating a leadership group, working with municipal, County, and private sector stakeholders. The position was intended to be used to serve as the Project Manager for the Arena development project, as well as other similar projects in the future.
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