The City of Delray Beach is taking significant steps to preserve its historic places of worship while addressing housing needs. During the recent government meeting on July 3, 2025, city officials discussed and approved amendments to the comprehensive plan and land development regulations that will allow the adaptive reuse of historic places of worship into single-family homes within the community facility (CF) zoning district.

This decision comes in response to a previous denial of a land use map amendment aimed at facilitating such conversions. City officials emphasized the importance of preserving these structures, which serve as community landmarks, while also providing new housing opportunities. The amendments are designed to support the preservation of historic resources and ensure that these buildings continue to benefit the community, even if their original purpose as places of worship is no longer viable.

The proposed changes include specific development standards that align with existing residential zoning requirements, ensuring that any new single-family residences resulting from this adaptive reuse will meet community expectations for safety and aesthetics. The amendments also clarify definitions related to historic places of worship, ensuring that the regulations are comprehensive and applicable to the limited number of such properties in the city.

City staff highlighted that while the amendments have a narrow scope, they represent an important addition to the city's historic preservation toolkit. The changes aim to balance the need for housing with the desire to maintain the historical integrity of these significant structures.

As the city moves forward with these amendments, officials are optimistic about the potential for revitalizing historic sites while addressing contemporary housing challenges. The community can expect further discussions and actions as the city implements these new regulations, reinforcing its commitment to preserving its rich history while adapting to modern needs.