Notes from the Fort Lauderdale Commission

The City Commission approved an interlocal agreement with Broward County for the demolition and reconstruction of the South Ocean Drive Bridge, which was awarded $2,176,937 in transportation surtax funding. With the execution of the proposed interlocal agreement, the Public Works Department anticipates starting construction by the end of 2021. 

The City Commission passed an ordinance on first reading that expands parklet locations to the Regional Activity Center – Transitional Mixed Use (RAC -TMU) zoning districts. A parklet is a platform installed within existing parallel on-street parking allowing tables and chairs to be used beyond the sidewalk into a parking lane, thereby allowing adjacent business owners to utilize outdoor space without the need for permanent street redesign and construction. Parklets support a wide range of shopping services, employment opportunities, and local cultural benefits. The ordinance is scheduled to be approved and adopted upon second reading at the next City Commission meeting on August 17.

The City Commission approved a subaward agreement with Broward County for funding of the City’s COVID-19 non-congregate hotel program. A total of 144 unsheltered homeless individuals have participated in the program that was established to provide assistance to those who are unable to comply with social distancing requirements and recommendations in place to combat the spread of COVID-19. In addition to shelter, the program provides food services, 24-hour security, case management, routine COVID-19 testing, health care screenings, and access to COVID-19 vaccinations.