4 min read July 2023 — In an interview with Invest:, Dean Trantalis, mayor of the City of Fort Lauderdale discussed key topics that are shaping the city’s progress, from significant construction projects to infrastructure challenges, transportation improvements and affordable living. “While many people may be concerned about the increasing number of new units being constructed Downtown, thinking it could lead to oversaturation, I believe that the only way to address the high cost of living Downtown is by creating more inventory,” he said.
What have been some of the key highlights for the city of Fort Lauderdale over the past year?
Taking a bird’s-eye view of the central Downtown area of the city right now, we have almost a dozen new construction projects already in progress, both on the north and south sides of the river. This indicates that the market is still strong, with the population continuing to increase. Young people and empty nesters are migrating into the Fort Lauderdale area, driving the migration from the outskirts into the city center. This is exactly what we hoped for when we made plans 20 years ago. We wanted to attract these demographics to the Downtown area and create a vibrant urban experience. What we’re seeing now is a continuation of that trend.
It’s important to keep in mind that while we’re witnessing this growth, the city has a responsibility to ensure that the infrastructure can sustain it. For instance, over the past 12 months, the City Commission has taken the initiative to build a new water treatment plant. We are also working on rehabilitating or replacing miles of underground pipes. This infrastructure is crucial to support the kind of growth we’re experiencing in the city.
Furthermore, we’re reaching out to investors to create diverse experiences here. We aim to bring more retail options to the Downtown area and offer a wider range of choices to residents. We’re also making efforts to bring our champion Panthers hockey team — who may not have won the Stanley Cup, but they are still winners in our eyes — closer to Downtown. We’re looking for a suitable location to build an arena on the east side. This will further enhance the activity in the Downtown and central areas of Fort Lauderdale. Additionally, we are proud to announce that the Panthers will be opening two ice skating rinks, one for the public and one for team practice next to War Memorial Auditorium. This will provide more opportunities for families to enjoy activities they haven’t had access to before.
What is the city doing to enhance transportation accessibility and affordability?
Transportation and traffic have been long-standing issues in Fort Lauderdale for decades. It has become a pressing matter. As a result, the governments of Florida, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach have come together to collaborate on a proposal to enhance transportation infrastructure. The plan involves utilizing the existing Brightline train tracks and adding numerous commuter trains to establish a comprehensive commuter rail system. Implementing this proposal presents its own challenges, including dealing with the increased traffic caused by 40-50 additional trains each day. With an already significant amount of vehicular traffic moving east and west, frustration and congestion are inevitable, both on the roads and boats using the New River.
To address these challenges, I have developed a plan to construct a tunnel spanning approximately 2 miles, starting from Davie Blvd and running up to Sunrise Blvd. This tunnel will help alleviate vehicular interactions and create a smoother pathway for the marine industry, eliminating the need for the bridge to open each time a train passes. Our region boasts a multibillion dollar industry along the river and impeding its progress would result in job losses and hinder the industries we are renowned for. Collaborating closely with the county and engaging with the U.S. Department of Transportation, we are actively exploring various funding options and opportunities for this tunnel project.
Additionally, several transportation initiatives are primarily county-oriented. The county is currently working on plans for an overhead rail system connecting the airport, seaport and the new Convention Center expansion with the hotel. They have also expanded the bus system, extending its reach into the suburbs and throughout the city, with the hope of alleviating traffic. Moreover, plans are being developed for various light rail systems spanning east and west across the county, although their implementation is contingent on securing the necessary resources.
What steps are being taken to ensure Fort Lauderdale remains an affordable city?
It all comes down to simple supply and demand. While many people may be concerned about the increasing number of new units being constructed Downtown, thinking it could lead to oversaturation, I believe that the only way to address the high cost of living Downtown is by creating more inventory. Expanding the options available creates competition in real estate market and will likely lead to price reductions. The tipping point occurs when there are too many units and too few residents. At that point, prices will start to come down. Conversely, if we restrict the number of units or impose a building moratorium, prices will skyrocket because people still want to live here and they will be willing to pay a premium to do so. The principle of supply and demand is at play and the only way to break the cycle is by increasing inventory.
Which new business industries would you like to attract to Fort Lauderdale?
I have spoken with developers who are looking to bring movie theaters, multiple gyms and additional grocery stores to Flagler Village. The goal is to ensure that residents don’t have to walk more than two or three blocks to access the amenities they need. These projects are currently under construction and I would like to see more of this kind of development. It’s disheartening to see some buildings with empty retail spaces on the ground floor. When I speak to these landlords, I encourage them to consider offering free rent to attract tenants and fill these spaces. Unfortunately, it seems that this idea doesn’t resonate with them. However, it is crucial for our success that these landlords understand they can’t charge market rates and leave these spaces vacant for years on end. It makes no sense, even from a business perspective.
What keeps you motivated to stay actively involved in the community?
It’s so exciting to see what’s happening. We are actively building and shaping our city into a thriving metropolis. Observing positive and rapid results fills me with immense excitement. My role is to promote and endorse the city, to effectively convey its unique identity and to instill a sense of pride among the residents. Seeing the tangible outcomes of these efforts month after month, year after year, brings me great fulfillment. I won’t deny that it can be tiring and exhausting but I wholeheartedly embrace this role. I am grateful to others for entrusting me with it and having faith in my ability to continue leading the city toward further success. It truly is an exhilarating experience.
What is your near-term outlook for the city of Fort Lauderdale?
My priority is to get reelected next year. It’s about continuing the path we’ve started – completing the vision we laid out for the city. We’re reaching out across the country and internationally, drawing attention to our city. Let me share an example. We recently visited Dubai as part of a trade mission. We met with many individuals, urging them to invest in our city. Initially, we faced skepticism but now we’re witnessing billions of dollars being invested. An Emirati sovereign wealth fund even acquired the parent company of Brightline. Our interactions played a crucial role in attracting these investments. People might question why they choose South Florida over cities like Chicago, New York, Baltimore, Denver or Houston. The answer lies in the opportunities they see here. South Florida, including our city, is a hotspot with substantial population growth. Florida is now the third-most populous state, with around 1,000 people moving here every day. That’s significant considering our state’s size. South Florida, in particular, stands out.
Over the next five years, my mission is to continue drawing attention to our community and attracting smart investments. I envision Fort Lauderdale as a city with a distinctive identity, immediately associated with opportunity and growth.
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