Terra and Frisbie Secure Boca Raton City Hall Redevelopment: A 2.5 Million-Square-Foot Mixed-Use Vision

In a landmark decision, the Boca Raton City Council has unanimously selected the partnership of Terra and Frisbie Group to spearhead the redevelopment of the city's government campus. This ambitious project aims to transform the existing 30-acre site into a vibrant, 2.5 million-square-foot mixed-use complex, seamlessly integrating residential, commercial, and civic spaces.

The Winning Proposal: A Comprehensive Overview

Project Components

Designed by the renowned architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox, the proposed development encompasses:

• Residential Units: 1,129 modern residences catering to diverse demographics.

• Hospitality: A 150-key hotel designed to attract both business and leisure travelers.

• Office Space: 250,000 square feet of state-of-the-art office facilities.

• Retail and Dining: 156,690 square feet dedicated to retail outlets and restaurants, enhancing the local economy.

• Parking Facilities: 3,434 parking spaces to accommodate residents, visitors, and employees.

Civic Enhancements

A significant aspect of the redevelopment involves upgrading municipal facilities. The existing government buildings will be replaced with a new, up to 100,000-square-foot City Hall and a 50,600-square-foot community center, fostering a sense of community and providing modern amenities for residents.

Financial Commitments and Community Contributions

Under a 99-year lease agreement, Terra and Frisbie Group will provide the city with $5.1 million annually, surpassing their initial offer of $4 million. Additionally, the developers have pledged a $10 million contribution to support community initiatives and infrastructure improvements.

Competitive Bidding Process

The selection process was highly competitive, with notable contenders including:

• Related Ross: Led by billionaire Steve Ross, this proposal featured nearly 1 million square feet of office space across three towers, 650 residential units, a 400-key hotel, and 235,050 square feet of retail and restaurant space.

• Namdar Group: A New York-based developer proposing a 6.8 million-square-foot campus.

• RocaPoint Partners: An Atlanta-based firm with plans for a nearly 2 million-square-foot project.

Council members expressed concerns regarding the extensive office space in Related Ross's proposal, which influenced their decision to favor Terra and Frisbie's more balanced approach.

Community Engagement and Future Plans

To ensure transparency and gather public input, a town hall meeting is scheduled for February 19, 2025, at The Studio at Mizner Park. This session will provide residents with an opportunity to engage with the architectural team and developers, offering feedback and insights on the proposed plans.

Developer Profiles and Track Record

Terra

Based in Miami, Terra is a prolific developer with several projects in the pipeline. In Miami Beach, the firm and the Meruelo family scored preliminary approval this month for the redevelopment of the former Deauville Beach Resort at 6701 Collins Avenue with a 100-unit condo tower and a 150-key hotel.

Frisbie Group

Headquartered in Palm Beach, Frisbie Group has a strong presence in South Florida's real estate market. Their collaboration with Terra on the Boca Raton project signifies a strategic partnership aimed at delivering a transformative development that aligns with the city's vision for growth and community enhancement.

Insights

What are the main components of the Terra and Frisbie redevelopment project?

The project includes 1,129 residential units, a 150-key hotel, 250,000 square feet of office space, 156,690 square feet of retail and dining areas, and 3,434 parking spaces. Additionally, new civic facilities such as a City Hall and community center are planned.

How does the financial agreement between the developers and the city benefit Boca Raton?

The developers will enter into a 99-year lease, providing the city with $5.1 million annually, along with a $10 million contribution for community and infrastructure enhancements.

What were the key factors that led to the selection of Terra and Frisbie's proposal over others?

The City Council favored Terra and Frisbie's balanced approach, which offered a mix of residential, commercial, and civic spaces. Concerns about the extensive office space in competing proposals, particularly from Related Ross, also influenced the decision.

How can residents participate in the planning process?

Residents are encouraged to attend the town hall meeting on February 19, 2025, at The Studio at Mizner Park, where they can engage with the development team and provide feedback.

What is the anticipated impact of this redevelopment on Boca Raton's community?

The project aims to revitalize the downtown area, offering modern amenities, enhancing public spaces, and stimulating economic growth through increased residential and commercial activities.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Terra and Frisbie Group marks a significant milestone in Boca Raton's urban development. By thoughtfully integrating residential, commercial, and civic elements, this project promises to rejuvenate the city's core, fostering a vibrant community hub for years to come.