Historic Northwest

The Sunset Lounge, a landmark venue in West Palm Beach’s Historic Northwest District, is undergoing its final phase of renovation as part of a comprehensive effort to restore one of the city’s most significant cultural and musical institutions. The West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is pleased to announce that installation of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) is now underway, marking a major milestone toward the venue’s anticipated reopening in late 2025.

Originally established as a cornerstone of African American culture and entertainment, the Sunset Lounge gained national recognition in the 1940s and 1950s as a premier destination for legendary performers such as Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong. During a time of segregation, it served as a vital cultural hub where Black artists and audiences could gather, perform, and celebrate music and community.

Today, its restoration honors that legacy while preparing the venue for a vibrant future. The renovation will transform the two-story, 7,200-square-foot facility into a modern entertainment destination featuring live music programming, a full-service restaurant and bar, rooftop space, and flexible event areas. The design preserves the historic character of the building while integrating contemporary amenities to support a dynamic cultural experience.

The FF&E phase began in 2025 and is still currently final steps of completion. This phase represents the final step in delivering a fully operational, revitalized venue. Project delivery is led by the West Palm Beach CRA, building upon prior construction efforts by Cooper Construction and REG, with continued support from Gast Construction Group (construction), V Starr (interior design), and Song & Associates Inc. (architecture).

Together, these partners are ensuring the Sunset Lounge is thoughtfully restored as both a historic landmark and a modern cultural destination. Community members can follow project updates, milestones, and upcoming events at www.wpb.org/sunsetlounge, attend Historic Northwest Community Meetings, or subscribe to the CRA newsletter by emailing cra@wpb.org

The Styx Promenade is a completed revitalization project located along 7th Street between Rosemary Avenue and Sapodilla Avenue in the Historic Northwest District. Led by the West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), this transformative initiative reflects a long-term commitment to honoring cultural heritage while advancing economic development and neighborhood vitality.

The project includes the construction of nine new buildings designed in the historic Shotgun architectural style, along with the careful restoration of an original Shotgun home. This design approach preserves the architectural identity of the Historic Northwest while introducing new, functional spaces for community-oriented commercial use. The development was designed by acclaimed architect Alfonso Hernandez, whose vision for the project began in 2018 and emphasizes the balance between historic preservation and modern urban activation.

Styx Promenade pays tribute to the legacy of the original Styx community—an African American neighborhood that was displaced from Palm Beach Island and resettled in Pleasant City. Today, the project stands as a symbol of resilience and cultural preservation, transforming that legacy into a renewed center of economic opportunity.

A key component of the redevelopment is the intentional placement of Black-owned and minority-owned small businesses within the corridor. Through a competitive selection process completed in 2025, the following businesses now operate within Styx Promenade, contributing to a vibrant, community-centered commercial district:

• Camile’s Flowers and Design LLC – floral design and specialty arrangements
• Wild Rose Wine & Daiquiri Bar – wine and craft beverage lounge
• Eat’n Cake – bakery and dessert shop
• A Better Way Home Care – in-home care services
• Rohi’s Readery – children’s literacy and bookstore space
• Serene Beauty Suite – beauty and wellness services

All businesses celebrated their grand openings in fall 2025, marked by a community ribbon-cutting ceremony and public celebration of the completed promenade.

Today, Styx Promenade serves as a model for culturally grounded redevelopment, combining historic preservation, architectural authenticity, and inclusive economic growth to strengthen the Historic Northwest District for future generations.

Awards:

• 2025 Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) Roy F. Kenzie "Out of the Box" Award for the Styx Promenade Project

• Styx Alley (part of the Styx Promenade initiative) in West Palm Beach, designed by Alfonso Hernandez Architect, LLC, has won multiple prestigious awards, including AIA recognition:

Explore the transformation of Tamarind Avenue, a collaborative effort by the CRA and City of West Palm Beach. Extending from Banyan Boulevard to Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard, this project introduces comprehensive enhancements designed to elevate the streetscape experience.

The initiative includes burying overhead lines underground, expanding sidewalks and bicycle facilities, and enhancing lighting and shade throughout the corridor. Phases 1 and 2 were completed in Fall of 2024 with Whiting Turner as contractors. The CRA will announce the next phase once determined.

Join us as we reimagine Tamarind Avenue into a more accessible, pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare. Stay updated on our progress and discover how these improvements will enrich our community.

This project will house a new office space for Alfonso Hernandez Architect, the visionary behind the award-winning Styx Promenade. This next-door development at 614 7th Street aims to replicate the iconic Styx Buildings' design, marrying timeless aesthetics with modern functionality.

Step into the future of dining and community revitalization with Hamburger Haven, a beloved 50-year resident of the Historic Northwest. The CRA, in partnership with Palm Beach County and the owners of Hamburger Haven Restaurant, embarked on a transformative Public Private Partnership. This initiative aims to restore, renovate, and reinvent the existing structure on North Tamarind Avenue, preserving its historic charm while introducing modern amenities.

This historic renovation project includes a commercial buildout featuring three distinct tenant spaces. Hamburger Haven, a long-term anchor in the community, celebrated a grand re-opening on October 18th, 2024. Joining them will be Da Best BBQ, a celebrated local mobile vendor opening their first brick-and-mortar location, opening anticipated by the end of 2024. The third space remains available for lease by the owner, offering an opportunity to contribute to the vibrant local economy.

Mayor Keith A. James and Nivia Jean-Louis cut the ceremonial ribbon to launch the dream that is Fantasy Island.

Fritz and Nivia Jean-Louis

The New Fantasy Island Restaurant is OPEN

Dancers perform at the opening

West Palm Beach CRA staff helped this dream happen

The future is now at the Fantasy Island Caribbean Restaurant, 325 North Sapodilla Avenue in the Historic Northwest. Fritz and Navia Jean-Louis had a dream to restore a historic building and create a gathering place for residents and visitors; Fantasy Island.

With the help of the West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and the City of West Palm Beach, Fantasy Island opened on Friday, May 30, 2025.

In October 2021, the CRA Board approved an agreement to provide a business relocation and historical preservation grant to the owners of a historical building in the Historic Northwest. The Fantasy Island restoration project brings an owner-occupied residential and state-of-the-art restaurant property to the area. The project provides food and entertainment within walking distance of the Grand and Flagler Station projects at the southern gateway to the neighborhood.

Discover the future of affordable housing in the Historic Northwest at the Douglass Avenue Shotgun Houses, where history meets community renewal. The CRA is currently negotiating a conveyance agreement with Neighborhood Renaissance to transform these historic properties into vibrant, affordable homes.

Our commitment to historic preservation aligns with the CRA’s strategic plans of enhancing affordable housing efforts. Construction is underway with completion anticipated in 2027, promising a blend of historic charm and modern living standards.

Explore how we're revitalizing these iconic shotgun houses to provide sustainable, affordable housing solutions for our community. Join us on this journey as we redefine living spaces and celebrate the rich history of Douglass Avenue.

The West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is advancing the revitalization of the historic Mickens Moore residence, transforming the site into a potential small business lodging and hospitality destination that celebrates the cultural heritage of the Historic Northwest District.

Located at 801 4th Street, the project includes the restoration of the existing two-story Mickens Moore building, along with the construction of two new Frame-Vernacular replica structures designed to reflect the architectural character and historic fabric of the surrounding community. These additions are intended to expand the site’s functionality while maintaining its historical integrity.

As part of the broader redevelopment effort, the Gardenia Building has been relocated to the site, where ongoing foundation work and structural stabilization are actively underway. These improvements are laying the groundwork for authentic, heritage-based lodging experiences that honor the legacy and stories of the neighborhood.

Once completed, the project will create a unique hospitality opportunity that blends historic preservation with economic development, supporting cultural tourism and community-driven growth in the Historic Northwest.

The Mickens Moore revitalization is anticipated to be completed by 2027.

Stay tuned for continued updates as this important preservation project progresses.

We are thrilled to announce the completion of the acquisition for 708 3rd Street, marking a significant step in historic preservation and the future development of affordable housing. The CRA is now the proud owner of this historic property, with plans underway to repurpose it into much-needed affordable housing project. 

The West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is preparing to advance an exciting adaptive reuse project at 719 N. Sapodilla Street, transforming a historic two-story, approximately 2,800-square-foot building into a vibrant new dining destination.

This upcoming project will bring Vegan Fine Foods to the Historic Northwest District as a bar and grill concept designed to serve as both a neighborhood gathering place and a catalyst for small business growth. The redevelopment will also include enhanced outdoor seating areas, creating an inviting and active streetscape that supports walkability and community engagement.

Construction efforts are focused on the careful preservation and activation of the existing historic structure, ensuring that its architectural character is maintained while accommodating a modern, full-service dining experience. The project reflects a continued commitment to historic preservation paired with thoughtful economic development.

A core goal of the redevelopment is to expand opportunities for minority led food and beverage businesses, reinforcing the CRA’s mission to foster inclusive entrepreneurship and long-term neighborhood vitality.

Once complete, Vegan Fine Foods at 719 N. Sapodilla will serve as a dynamic hospitality option in the Historic Northwest, blending historic character with contemporary dining and community connection.

Stay tuned as this project moves forward and brings new energy to the corridor.

The West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is leading the restoration of a historic landmark at 1031 N. Sapodilla Street, a significant contributing structure within the Historic Northwest District. Built in 1925, this three-level stucco wood-frame building represents an important piece of the community’s architectural and cultural history.

The structure encompasses approximately 3,109 square feet, including 2,647 square feet of conditioned space, and is situated on a 0.09-acre site. The project is designed to carefully preserve the building’s historic character while adapting it for modern use as an affordable housing development.

In partnership with the CRA, the redevelopment will transform the property into a two-unit affordable housing residence, helping to expand housing accessibility while maintaining the integrity and heritage of the original structure. This effort reflects a broader commitment to preservation-based development that supports long-term community stability and neighborhood revitalization.

Construction bidding for the project is anticipated to proceed in 2026, with restoration efforts focused on stabilizing and rehabilitating the existing structure for future residential use. Project completion is anticipated by 2028.

The 1031 N. Sapodilla project stands as a model for how historic preservation and housing affordability can work together, honoring the past while addressing present and future community needs.

Welcome to the Augustus & Cherry Historic Replication Project, a transformative initiative dedicated to preserving the legacies of Hazel Augustus and Gwen Cherry while advancing affordable housing in West Palm Beach located at 900 6th St. 

Introduction: Discover the Hazel Augustus + Gwen Cherry Historic Replication, an inspiring future infill affordable housing initiative set at the former site of these influential figures in West Palm Beach history.

Background Information: Hazel A. Augustus (1887-1926) was a trailblazing African American architect, possibly the first in our city's history. Despite limited details about his life, historical records highlight his profound impact with iconic designs in our Black districts. Notable works include the El Verano Hotel (later known as the Helen Wilkes Residence Hotel), Payne Chapel A.M.E., and Tabernacle Baptist Church. Augustus also designed the Gwen Cherry house at 625 Division, tragically demolished in the 2000s. His own residence at 621 Division, once slated for preservation, was lost in 1987 due to deterioration. Records indicate Augustus built this home himself, with W. Hart as the contractor.

Gwen Cherry (1923-1985), an esteemed advocate and attorney, dedicated her life to civil rights and public service. She made significant strides in Florida's legislative history, advocating for social justice and equality. Cherry's impact continues to resonate in our community today.

Project Goals: We aim to revive this historic space into a vibrant hub for affordable housing, celebrating the architectural and cultural heritage of our vibrant city.

The CRA acquired a property at 816 3rd Street that was identified for the end use as affordable housing. In 2023, the Notice of Disposition marked the beginning of this project's journey. Signet Foundation, a Historic Northwest business, was chosen to lead the negotiation process, and is currently in process to complete the project.  

Banyan Boulevard is in the process of being transformed through an engineering project funded by the CRA. Phase 1, spanning from Australian Avenue to Quadrille Boulevard, has been successfully completed, marking a significant milestone in enhancing this vital east-west connection between Downtown and the Historic Northwest.

The project aims to improve accessibility for residents of the Historic Northwest to downtown amenities while creating distinctive artistic gateway features that celebrate the area's rich cultural heritage. Design enhancements include a raised bike lane, treed medians, and upgraded shade and lighting infrastructure.

Phase 2 of the Banyan Boulevard Streetscape is currently on hold as we continue to explore opportunities for further enhancements. Stay updated on our progress and learn more about how these improvements are reshaping our urban landscape.

Renting Heart and Soul Park

Thank you for your interest in hosting an event at Heart and Soul Park, located at 825 N. Rosemary Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33430. To facilitate your event rental, please follow these steps:

1. Complete the City Event Application:

- Begin by filling out the City Event Application form. You can download the form here(PDF, 699KB).

- Ensure all required fields are filled out accurately with detailed information about your event.

- Please note that you must submit this at LEAST 8-10 weeks in advance of your event. 

2. Request a Letter from the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency):

- As part of the process, you will need to request a letter of support from the CRA supporting your event at Heart and Soul Park and to ensure it’s availability.

- Contact the CRA office at CRA@WPB.ORG to request this letter. Please allow sufficient time for processing.

3. Submit Your Application:

- Once you have completed the City Event Application and obtained the CRA support letter, submit these documents together.

- Applications can be submitted via email to myevent@wpb.org.

4. Confirmation and Payment:

- After submitting your application, our team will review it and contact you to confirm the availability of Heart and Soul Park for your event.

- Upon confirmation, payment details will be provided. Rental fees and any additional requirements must be settled in advance to secure your reservation.

5. Event Planning and Coordination:

- Work closely with our events team to finalize logistical details and ensure a successful event at Heart and Soul Park.

- Feel free to ask any questions or seek assistance during the planning process.

Thank you for your interest in the Historic Northwest. We look forward to helping you host a memorable event at Heart and Soul Park!

For further inquiries or assistance, please contact:

City of West Palm Beach

Community Events Division

401 Clematis Street, 3rd Floor

West Palm Beach, FL 33401

myevent@wpb.org