CRA Economic Development

 

How it Works

Sebastian offers the benefits of being connected to major metropolitan areas such as Orlando and West Palm Beach, without all the draw backs commonly known to south Florida such as traffic congestion and over development. Sebastian offers something more. For example, you’ll find everything a business needs from a quality workforce to competitive development costs and ready facilities. What’s more, Sebastian has maintained its southern hometown ambience and it’s all located next to the Indian River Lagoon on Florida’s eastern coast.

 

Our CRA encompasses the waterfront district along Indian River Drive and the US Route 1 business district to further aid in the economic development of Sebastian.

 

Transportation is easy in Sebastian, offering easy access to major freight transportation routes.I-95, the major north-south trucking route on the Florida east coast, is just six miles west. The Florida East Coast Railroad (FEC) runs directly thru Sebastian with the possibility of freight sidings in several locations. FEC offers freight service from Miami and Ft. Lauderdale ports of entry, as well as direct connections with other major rail lines at Jacksonville.

 

Commercial and industrial land is available. At the Sebastian Airport, approximately 120 acres is available, with a large site ready for immediate construction having road, water, wastewater, electric and communication infrastructure in place. For the right company, limited funds are available construct a turn key leasable industrial building upon City Council approval. Lease rates for such an incentive could be as low as $2.00 per square foot  See our Airport section for details.

 

Sebastian offers all of the Florida amenities a business needs to consider. Close connection to metropolitan areas without the south Florida hustle and bustle, quality housing for affordable prices, some of the best schools in the State, quality medical services and leisure activities that are second to none. Our CRA and Economic Development Departments are ready and willing to assist you in evaluating all we have to offer. So get started, because business is easy in Sebastian.

 

Actual Economic Development Story

In May 2010, a bank foreclosed on a local commercial restaurant property located within the Sebastian CRA, on the Indian River Drive waterfront. This property was ran-down and need of restoration and development.

 

A small restaurant group approached the City about purchasing the property and restoring it. However, they wanted to expand seating to make the facility economically viable. This required more parking, which was not available on site.

 

The CRA and Economic Development Departments came up with a plan for “payment in lieu of parking” using City parking areas adjacent to the restaurant property to satisfy zoning requirements. This required a modification of the Land Development Regulations.

 

By late August 2010, the CRA and the City had approved the modified regulations so that the purchase of the property could proceed.

 

Restoration began in September 2010 and a grand opening was held in early December. In just over two months, the City of Sebastian moved to help establish a new business and provide valuable jobs for the area.