A new architectural landmark is set to redefine the skyline of downtown Fort Lauderdale. A 47-story tower, which has been given the green light by the city commission, will rise at 633 SE Third Avenue, near the Broward courthouse and School District headquarters. This project, undertaken by New York-based developer Dependable Equities, will be a towering addition at 563 feet, making it the tallest building in Fort Lauderdale. It surpasses the height of the current record-holder, the 100 Las Olas tower, which stands at 499 feet.
The design of the building is notable for its cylindrical shape, featuring a nine-story podium with a double-height lobby, wrap-around balconies, and covered terraces. This design, which narrows towards the top, allows for more light and open views. The tower is set to house 830 apartments, varying in size from 400 to 1,500 square feet, with most units ranging between 500 to 1,000 square feet. Additionally, plans include 949 parking spaces and 12,800 square feet of commercial space.
The project received unanimous commission approval in April 2023, with no public opposition voiced at the meeting. This was seen as a positive sign by Commissioner Steve Glassman. The approval was necessary due to the building’s footprint exceeding the maximum allowed size for structures over 36 stories in the area.
Mayor Dean Trantalis praised the project for its creativity and its potential to bring a new level of artistic flair to the city's architecture. Commissioner Warren Sturman, however, expressed concerns about the building's size and its impact on the neighborhood, noting that while it adheres to the city's downtown zoning rules, it might appear out of place.
This development is part of a broader trend in Fort Lauderdale's urban growth, with several other high-rise projects in the pipeline, including a proposed 48-story tower at 200 W. Broward Blvd by Kushner Cos. and Aimco, which, if approved, would stand at 586 feet.
Residents in the area have mixed reactions, with some like Brucie Cummings expressing concerns about the impact on traffic and the rapid pace of development in the city. This project is an example of Fort Lauderdale's evolving urban landscape, balancing growth and development with community concerns and urban planning challenges.
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