SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve a Downtown Clearwater Commercial Grant for Vital Life Fitness, LLC, located at 1280 Court St, Clearwater, FL 33756 in amount not to exceed $101,297.66 and authorize appropriate officials to execute same.
Body
SUMMARY:
The Downtown Clearwater Commercial Grant Program is designed to support commercial property and business owners within the Downtown Clearwater Community Redevelopment Area (DTCRA) by providing financial assistance for improvements that enhance the appearance, functionality, and economic viability of properties. The program consolidates previous grant offerings into a single, more accessible structure to better serve applicants and advance the goals of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan.
On December 30, 2024, CRA staff received a grant application from Vital Life Fitness, LLC for a series of building and site improvements. The proposed work includes:
• Bathroom demolition and relocation of showers
• Tree removal and site preparation
• New entry driveway installation
• Parking lot and asphalt repairs
• Drywall and stucco work
• Plumbing and electrical upgrades
• New windows and doors
• Interior trim and painting
• Signage
• HVAC system improvements
The total estimated cost of the project is $184,177.57, and the applicant will provide a 45% match, totaling $82,879.91.
This grant aligns with the Clearwater Downtown Redevelopment Plan and the City’s Strategic Plan. Staff recommends approval of the grant in an amount not to exceed $101,297.66.
If approved, CRA staff will work with the applicant to execute a grant agreement outlining the terms and conditions. Grant funds will be disbursed upon submission and verification of all required documentation, including permits, itemized budgets, and photographic evidence of work performed.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds for this new grant are available in R2003- Economic Development-City in an amount not to exceed $101,297.66.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Clearwater Downtown Redevelopment Plan
Downtown will be a dynamic built environment of dense and livable patterns and active and attractive streets through quality urban design and architecture. (Urban Design Goals, page 48)
• Objective 4A: Encourage redevelopment that contains a variety of building forms and style
• Objective 4D: Encourage renovation, restoration, and reuse of existing historic structures to maintain the character of Downtown’s neighborhoods.
City’s Strategic Plan
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain diversified business sectors.
2.2 Cultivate a business climate that welcomes entrepreneurship, inspires local investment, supports Eco-friendly enterprises, and encourages high-quality job growth.
2.3 Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment, cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower community pride and belonging.
