The City has actively updated downtown infrastructure for some years now, and extensive work is being done to straighten out Dixie Highway. However, the latest project seems to be contrary to what the City wishes to achieve. An application for a $1.3 million interest-free loan has been submitted to the County and approved to build a parking lot at NE 12 Ave/38 St. The site is currently occupied by a building which until recently housed numerous businesses used by surrounding neighborhoods. Tenants are fleeing due to the uncertainty, since the City has not contacted the tenants per an agreement with the seller. That seller, Mr. Nader Soliman, previously denied the City permission to extend Main Street improvements to his property. Tenant reactions are mixed. One is hesitant to stay in the area lest the same scenario play out again at a new location; another vowed to reopen 'somewhere in the area'.
Surprisingly, the Oakland Park Main Street organization supports the project, though it means the removal of a good percentage of downtown biz. A request for comment from the OPMS President was not returned.
Main Street may soon become the best-looking ghost town in eastern Broward. The sale is set to close April 14, with demolition planned for December.
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UPDATE 23 April 2011:
After two weeks, the President of OPMS, Mr. Jason Hagopian, replied to questions regarding this issue. See answers below.
GrOP: Does OPMS support the City's purchase of the building and conversion to parking?
Hagopian: Yes, Main Street supports the purchase and conversion to parking. The additional parking will support events in Jaco Pastorius Park.
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UPDATE 23 April 2011:
After two weeks, the President of OPMS, Mr. Jason Hagopian, replied to questions regarding this issue. See answers below.
GrOP: Does OPMS support the City's purchase of the building and conversion to parking?
Hagopian: Yes, Main Street supports the purchase and conversion to parking. The additional parking will support events in Jaco Pastorius Park.
GrOP: Is OPMS assisting businesses in the building to remain downtown?
Hagopian: Upon completion of all closing transactions between the property owner and the City, OPMS is ready to assist businesses find new space in downtown where feasible.
GrOP: What would OPMS like to see on the property in the future?
Hagopian: For now, the property can be used for events such as Meet Me on Main Street.
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A subsequent request seeking information about the Jaco Park mural tile program has gone unanswered.
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