The Well: A Cultural Arts Destination for Deerfield Beach
Repurposing Deerfield Beach's water treatment site into a cultural arts hub
The Urban Land Institute's 2025 South Florida Leadership Institute program was charged with assisting the City of Deerfield Beach in its plans to re-purpose its water treatment property into an engaging community space "The Well" within a newly created Cultural Arts District. Located in the Central City Area, The Well is envisioned as a vibrant, inclusive, and community-driven public space that will serve as a cultural anchor for the city.
This report outlines a comprehensive revitalization strategy to foster cultural expression, economic development, and neighborhood connectivity, while honoring Deerfield Beach's rich heritage and diverse population. Through a phased development strategy, the team proposes activating the site with arts programming, placemaking features, and flexible public spaces. The plan also includes transit and parking recommendations, public-private partnership models, and tools for long-term sustainability such as zoning overlays, business improvement districts, and tax increment financing.
The Urban Land Institute's 2025 South Florida Leadership Institute program was charged with assisting the City of Deerfield Beach in its plans to re-purpose its water treatment property into an engaging community space "The Well" within a newly created Cultural Arts District. Located in the Central City Area, The Well is envisioned as a vibrant, inclusive, and community-driven public space that will serve as a cultural anchor for the city.
This report outlines a comprehensive revitalization strategy to foster cultural expression, economic development, and neighborhood connectivity, while honoring Deerfield Beach's rich heritage and diverse population. Through a phased development strategy, the team proposes activating the site with arts programming, placemaking features, and flexible public spaces. The plan also includes transit and parking recommendations, public-private partnership models, and tools for long-term sustainability such as zoning overlays, business improvement districts, and tax increment financing.