Urban Designer Jay Hood proposes mixed-use development on Banana River dredge site

The Cocoa Beach City Commission and Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting on April 4, 2025, focused on several key updates and a significant unsolicited development proposal.

The meeting began with staff reports, highlighting updates from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) regarding pedestrian cross lanes. The design team is finalizing revisions to their plans, with construction expected to start soon. Notably, the city will remove two speed bumps—one at the south end of town and another near the crosswalks—along with changing speed limit signs to improve traffic flow.

During the public comment segment, Jay Hood, an urban designer representing Catalyst Design Group, presented a proposal for a 15-acre dredge site located north of the Cocoa Beach Pier on the Banana River. Hood emphasized the potential for a partnership with the city, showcasing a conceptual plan that includes a mixed-use development. This plan features a hotel, an independent living facility, and townhome units, all designed to comply with local height restrictions and include ample on-site parking.

Hood's proposal also prioritizes environmental considerations and community integration, with plans for pedestrian facilities and landscaped buffers to protect neighboring residential areas. The commission acknowledged the proposal and indicated that further discussions would be necessary to explore its feasibility and community impact.

Overall, the meeting underscored ongoing efforts to enhance local infrastructure and the potential for new development that could benefit Cocoa Beach's economy and community. Further steps will involve engaging with residents and stakeholders to refine the proposal and address any concerns.