The village of Islamorada is inviting the community to participate in a series of interactive public meetings from March 24-28, aimed at creating a vision for the future and updating the village’s comprehensive plan.
This project is intended to engage residents, business owners and stakeholders in a process focused on shaping Islamorada into the community the people want it to be. The village will host an interactive design process featuring hands-on sessions, an open planning studio, technical meetings and community gatherings. These events will focus on key topics such as the comprehensive plan, zoning best practices, land use, sustainability initiatives and more, while gathering input to guide future decisions.
The goal is to develop thoughtful revisions to the comprehensive plan that promote sustainable, predictable growth while maintaining the village’s historic charm, protecting the environment and aligning with the expectations of the community. The village encourages all residents to participate and contribute to shaping the future of their community.
A vision for balance
Over the past 25 years, Islamorada has experienced controlled growth, and now the village is looking to guide future redevelopment thoughtfully. The village has partnered with a team of planning experts, including Able City East (planning and design consultants), Street Plans (mobility consultant), Ninigret Partners (economic consultants), and the Horsley Witten Group (sustainability and wastewater specialists).
The process will tackle questions such as:
- How can Islamorada encourage arts, culture, local small businesses, new amenities and affordable living, while preserving the ecosystem?
- How can new development along U.S. 1 complement existing businesses while protecting surrounding neighborhoods?
- How can new housing types address the needs of the changing demographic, including workforce housing, amid rising property and construction costs?
- Can architectural standards improve the look of U.S. 1 and better reflect Islamorada’s unique character?
- How can the village make certain areas more walkable and pedestrian-friendly?
What is a comprehensive plan?
Florida’s comprehensive plans are land-use planning documents that all local governments are required to have by law. The plans are designed to guide development, preserve natural resources and ensure infrastructure can support population growth. These plans are legally binding, in accordance with the Florida Growth Management Act and the Community Planning Act, meaning that zoning decisions and land development regulations must align with the goals and strategies outlined in the comprehensive plan.
Islamorada’s comprehensive plan will include the following elements: future land use, conservation, coastal management, housing, recreation and open space, transportation, capital improvements, climate resilience and intergovernmental coordination.
Meetings schedule
- Monday, March 24, 6 p.m.: Public kickoff and hands-on design session: Presentation on town planning and community visioning. Afterward, work alongside your neighbors to sketch your vision for the future of Islamorada. This event is family-friendly — bring your children.
- Tuesday, March 25 through Thursday, March 27, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Open design studio: Visit the design studio during the day to speak with the planning team and offer your input as the plan evolves. This is a unique opportunity to contribute feedback as initial ideas are being developed.
- Friday, March 28, 6 p.m.: Work-in-progress presentation: Join us for a presentation showcasing the work completed during the week. These concepts will serve as the foundation for the comprehensive plan.
Location
Founders Park Community Center, 87000 Overseas Highway, Islamorada.
