Mayor James unveils revised expansion plan for Palm Beach Atlantic University that aligns with community needs and city vision

West Palm Beach, Florida – Mayor Keith A. James has announced that Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBAU) is revising its campus expansion plans to better align with the surrounding community and the vision of smart growth for West Palm Beach. The university, in collaboration with the city, has agreed to adjust its original plans to create a more community-friendly environment while still accommodating the institution’s needs.

Previously, the expansion proposal included a towering 25-story dormitory and an 11-story private parking garage, which would have been the tallest parking structure in West Palm Beach. These original designs, while ambitious, raised concerns about their impact on the neighborhood’s aesthetic and the surrounding area’s infrastructure. In response to these concerns, PBAU has revised the plans to scale down the height of the proposed parking garage to no more than seven stories. This change is in direct response to community feedback and Mayor James’ desire to foster an urban development that is both modern and considerate of the existing urban landscape.

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“Certain things are simply worth fighting for,” said Mayor Keith A. James in his announcement. “My Administration has been acting with intentionality, investing in innovation and implementing mobility and transportation solutions. I’m appreciative of PBAU’s willingness to work with my vision of a city that creates attractive public spaces, and sustains neighborhoods with attractive streets designed for people, not just cars.”

This adjustment reflects a broader commitment to smart growth in West Palm Beach. Mayor James has emphasized the importance of designing spaces that enhance the quality of life for all residents, blending modern development with the charm of existing neighborhoods. The new plans aim to foster a campus that is integrated with the community, ensuring that the growth of Palm Beach Atlantic University complements the city’s urban landscape and transportation solutions.

PBAU’s revised campus expansion plans will also prioritize the creation of more walkable spaces and community-oriented areas. The revised parking garage, now capped at seven stories, will help accommodate the university’s growing student population without overwhelming the surrounding area. These changes aim to strike a balance between growth and livability, ensuring that West Palm Beach remains a vibrant city that values both progress and preservation.

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Palm Beach Atlantic University has long been a valued institution in the city, known for attracting students and faculty with its nationwide reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to service and community. The revised expansion plans reflect PBAU’s ongoing dedication to supporting West Palm Beach while maintaining its core values of education and benevolence.

Mayor James concluded his announcement by reaffirming the importance of collaboration between the city and local institutions. “PBAU is a valuable addition to West Palm Beach,” he said. “I look forward to seeing how this partnership continues to shape our city in ways that benefit both the university and the wider community.” The revised expansion plans are expected to move forward in the coming months, with further details to be released as they become available.