Cities Civil and Municipal September 2024

Avon Park, Florida – Highlands County

October 11, 2024

Avon Park, Florida

A CIty that Shines like a Gem

Where History and Revitalization Converge

Founded in 1886, Avon Park, affectionately known as the “City of Charm,” is a picturesque community and a recognized U.S. historic district, where the city’s 13 heritage buildings are a main street attraction, and a draw for residents and visitors.

Avon Park is currently experiencing revitalization as the city unites to envision a community of the future. Many residents have a deep affection for the town and are committed to staying, appreciating its familiarity, authenticity, and sense of home. The downtown area fosters a strong sense of community, with residents and tourists enjoying various activities, visiting shops, and dining at some of the great local restaurants. Gradually, momentum is building as these revitalization efforts continue.

The community is being challenged to imagine what people in 2124 will say about the institutions established, the buildings created, and the parks, green spaces, and trees planted today. These efforts are expected to make a significant statement about the importance of this moment in the town’s history, both now and in the future.

Revitalizing the Downtown Core

Avon Park’s downtown mall, a mile-long stretch with a wide, picturesque median, extends from U.S. 27 eastward to Lake Verona and City Hall. This scenic area, part of State Road 64, a state-owned road, has been central to the town’s history. Roughly a century ago, the city bonded significant funds, resulting in challenges to overcome managing the dept through the Great Depression. Despite these obstacles, the mall that remains a standout feature in the area.

The State Department of Transportation recently held a workshop to discuss potential enhancements to Avon Park’s downtown mall, with a focus on parking, outdoor seating, and infrastructure improvements. A key concern is the disruption caused by trucks passing through the area. Various solutions are being considered, including structural and aesthetic approaches, such as traffic calming features, narrowing roads, and brick paving. There is also the possibility of converting the roads to one-way streets to accommodate angled parking. These changes are expected to manage traffic flow more effectively and encourage drivers to slow down and appreciate the scenic surroundings.

The city is actively engaged in beautification efforts, working with Public Works to introduce a variety of flowers and native plants that support pollinators. With a strong agricultural industry that has been central to the city’s history and remains important today, these efforts aim to honor the city’s agricultural heritage. This unique feature is something the city hopes to highlight and preserve through these initiatives.

The Role of the Airport in Economic Development

The Avon Park Municipal Airport is a key player in the town’s economic development. Operating under its own CRA, the airport is taking an innovative approach to privatization—a process that is quite rare for a municipal airport. The FAA has been involved in overseeing this process and coordinating grants to support the airport’s progress.

Plans are underway to introduce a flight school and hotel accommodations at the Avon Park Municipal Airport. The airport benefits from a strong synergy with the nearby Air Force training site, which has been active since World War II and continues to serve military personnel. Additionally, the airport has seen landings from helicopters and other military personnel, further emphasizing its strategic importance.

Infrastructure Investment

In terms of water and sewer infrastructure, it is reported that the town services a significant number of residents beyond its city limits, including Nucor, a steel fabrication firm. Many employees who live in Avon Park work at Nucor. The town meets their water and sewer needs, as well as those of other developments coming to the area. These services generate revenue for the city.

The downtown mall continues to benefit from state maintenance, with a contract that was established a century ago and is still in effect. Sidewalks throughout Avon Park are well-maintained, contributing to the walkability of the community and enhancing the quality of life for residents. Many students walk downtown daily to and from school, resulting in significant foot traffic in the area.

Commercial Growth

When it comes to commercial investment, Avon Park is making significant strides. Despite some empty storefronts, there is growing interest from businesses looking to establish a presence in the city. There are plans for a fashion designer to showcase bespoke clothing in one of the retail outlets, and a real estate company is set to move into the area in the coming months. This influx of businesses is seen as a positive sign, indicating a lively and active market.

Along with Pipal Realty Group, the city is witnessing a variety of new ventures, including a salon and a coffee shop. Investor Emilio Garibaldi has purchased a property with plans to add a beer garden combined with a specialty food market. Additionally, another investor has acquired the Pure Grit retail location with the intention of revamping it to continue its legacy and enhance the town’s retail sector. This local businessman is noted for his genuine interest in seeing the town thrive.

Diving Girl Diner is a popular establishment in the city core, with the owner, a local resident, dedicating her heart and soul to the downtown area. Eighteen East Restaurant is another well-regarded venue in the city, known for offering a fine dining experience.

Referring to the empty storefronts downtown, it is acknowledged that they persist despite the growing interest. The presence of these vacancies is partly due to their affordability and the ground-floor opportunities they present. Being among the first to occupy these spaces can provide a significant market advantage.

Residential Development and Quality of Life

Avon Park is looking forward to the completion of a large apartment complex, which includes an affordable housing component, currently being developed on a seven-acre site near downtown. In other developments, the city is currently accepting proposals for a vacant lot on Main Street, and the historic Brickell building has been renovated and is being developed into a mixed-use property.

Regarding affordable options, it is highlighted that the Avon Park Housing Authority excels in maintaining well-kept and dignified units, with some even offering views of a lake and nearby park with benches. Additionally, a 55+ RV resort community with approximately 300 units is set to be established within city limits. There is significant interest in these luxury RV resorts, catering to work campers and individuals leading a nomadic lifestyle.

Improvements to enhance the quality of life for residents are also underway in Avon Park.

Efforts are underway to address pressing needs in various areas of the city through facade grants, gardens, parks, after-school programs, diversion programs, and innovations in community policing. There is a growing interest in moving to the area due to its convenience, with proximity to airports, entertainment, transportation, and rail services. Major highways are easily accessible, and the county’s population is relatively small, with only 105,000 residents.

Partnership and Collaboration

As Avon Park continues to grow, the valued partners who are helping the city to evolve are crucial. The Avon Park Chamber of Commerce are a key entity for the city in orchestrating events, connecting businesses with residents and students, and fostering local engagement.

Avon Park is home to South Florida State College, which provides specialized training for various opportunities in fields such as healthcare, emergency services, and biotech. The college is closely attuned to the needs of the local business community. There are strong collaborations between business groups, community leaders, the chamber of commerce, and South Florida State College, aimed at producing quality, motivated workers and nurturing local entrepreneurs who can develop their talents in the area.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, the city is actively working to recruit more retail businesses, enhance the façades of existing stores, and increase community activities and events. As Avon Park embarks on this exciting new chapter, the goal is for the changes being implemented today to have a lasting impact for generations to come.