July Meeting Recap: Redevelopment News and Updates

July Meeting Recap: Redevelopment News and Updates

Published on July 16, 2026

The Downtown Development Board (DDB) and Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held their regularly scheduled meetings July 13 in the Main Library Council Chambers.

The Downtown Development Board approved a new Downtown Clearwater brand identity, received a recap of the First Friday Lunchtime Market series and discussed continued development of the Cleveland Street Mobile Vending Program.

During the CRA Trustee meeting, trustees recognized the July Business Spotlight recipient and approved administrative updates to the Downtown Commercial Grant Program, North Greenwood Commercial Grant Program and North Greenwood Residential Exterior Improvement Grant Program.

Downtown Clearwater Receives a New Brand Identity

The Downtown Development Board approved a new Downtown Clearwater logo, visual identity and branding platform developed by RB Oppenheim Associates (RBOA). Created through stakeholder engagement and market research, the new brand establishes a consistent identity that will guide future marketing, communications and promotional efforts while strengthening Downtown Clearwater's position as a destination for residents, visitors, businesses and investors.

The approved branding package includes:

A new Downtown Clearwater logo

• Branded icons representing downtown experiences such as dining, shopping, entertainment and outdoor recreation
• Social media templates and marketing materials
• Merchandise concepts

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Staff Presents the First Friday Lunchtime Market Program Recap

The Downtown Development Board received a recap of the First Friday Lunchtime Market, highlighting the success of the pilot series held from October 2025 through April 2026. Created as part of the Cleveland Street Activation Initiative,, the market was designed to increase weekday foot traffic, support local businesses, activate public spaces and encourage residents, employees and visitors to experience Downtown Clearwater during the workweek

Staff also presented a video showcasing the market's community impact, increasing attendance and the diverse mix of vendors and activities featured throughout the series.

Watch the First Friday Lunchtime Market recap video to see the program's community impact and learn more about the initiative.

Call for Mobile Vendors

The Downtown Development Board received an update on the Cleveland Street Mobile Vending Program, an initiative designed to create new experiences along Cleveland Street while expanding opportunities for mobile vendors. Board members received updates on vendor placement, permitting procedures and ongoing program development.

Interested in becoming a mobile vendor? The Downtown Development Board is seeking vendors to participate in the Cleveland Street Mobile Vending Program, which offers opportunities to be part of future downtown events and activations.

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DDB Supports Cultural Events in Downtown Clearwater

Mega Asian Food & Music Festival on the Water

The Downtown Development Board approved a High Impact Event Grant of up to $30,000 to support the Mega Asian Food & Music Festival on the Water, scheduled for August 21-23, 2026, at Coachman Park. Organized by Chris Lee Chittarath and Sira Atchison, the free, three-day festival will celebrate Asian cultures through authentic cuisine, live entertainment, cultural performances, artisan vendors and family-friendly activities.

2026 Cinco de Mayo Taco Fest

A recap of the 2026 Cinco de Mayo Taco Fest, held on May 3 at Coachman Park, highlighted another successful year for the annual festival. Organized by Unimex, the event celebrated Hispanic culture through authentic cuisine, live entertainment, local vendors and family-friendly activities.

During the presentation, organizer Erica Escamilla shared that the festival welcomed approximately 4,100 attendees, surpassing the initial projection of 2,000 attendees and continuing its year-over-year growth from more than 3,000 attendees in 2025. The recap also highlighted the event's strong community engagement and marketing efforts, which helped attract visitors and support local businesses

Social Sips Café Recognized as July Business Spotlight

The Clearwater CRA recognized Social Sips Café and Bar as the July 2026 Business Spotlight. Owner Andrew Nawoichik accepted the award during the CRA meeting in recognition of the café's contributions to Downtown Clearwater and its commitment to creating a welcoming gathering place for residents and visitors.

As part of the CRA Business Spotlight Program, the business was featured through a dedicated video and article highlighting its story and impact on the downtown community.

Located at 801 Cleveland Street, Suite B, Social Sips Café and Bar has become known for its community-focused atmosphere, local Coffee, artisan gelato and handcrafted boba tea adding to the character of Downtown Clearwater.

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CRA Trustees Approves Updates to Downtown and North Greenwood Grant Programs

The CRA approved administrative updates to the Downtown Commercial Grant Program, North Greenwood Commercial Grant Program and North Greenwood Residential Exterior Improvement Grant Program. The approved revisions improve transparency and consistency in how grant funds are administered while maintaining each program's existing purpose, eligibility requirements and funding structure.

The updates provide clearer guidance on:

Grant fund disbursement procedures

• Direct payments to approved contractors and vendors
• Reimbursement and phased payment requests
• Documentation requirements
• Applicant and property owner responsibilities

Learn more