More than 100 people filled St. Catherine Greek Orthodox Church on Wednesday evening to give West Palm Beach officials feedback on zoning rules covering 12 acres along South Flagler Drive. The city hosted the workshop on the South Flagler Overlay District, where staff focused on parking, building density and height.
Residents used the session to raise broader worries about waterfront development. Several said traffic has grown quickly and that tall buildings could end up beside historic neighborhoods. WPTV identified at least six new or planned projects along Flagler Drive.
Many attendees said they do not oppose growth. They asked the city to weigh the combined effect of projects on traffic, infrastructure and nearby homes. Resident Amy Triggs said high-rises belong downtown or near downtown, not next to a neighborhood built in the 1920s. Jeff Eagle said he opposes a building approaching 200 feet near a historic area.
The West Palm Beach City Commission paused waterfront redevelopment approvals for six months in July while it reviews zoning rules. City officials said property owners have development rights, but the review is meant to give the public a chance to comment before projects move forward. Staff expect to review feedback from the community survey on Nov. 4.
