Within a year, the medians of Royal Poinciana Way, a cherished gateway to Palm Beach, are set to undergo a remarkable transformation. This ambitious project, helmed by SMI Architecture and generously funded by the Garden Club of Palm Beach with a contribution nearing $600,000, will breathe new life into the aging landscaping along this iconic stretch. Initially approved by the Town Council on Sept. 11 and subsequently reviewed by the Landmarks Preservation Commission, the plan promises to unveil a refreshed, open scenic view of Royal Poinciana Way that has long been obscured by dense, mature greenery.
Rendering: SMI Landscape Architecture
Claudia Visconti, the SMI landscape architect behind the project, presented the concept in detail, emphasizing the goal of enhancing the street’s scenic vista. In her words, the design is intended to restore the open, welcoming view that the community has always cherished.
The revitalization will bring shell stone walkways around the medians’ edges, complemented by five midblock native holywood trees—each carefully chosen to reach about 8 feet in height and 5 feet in width. These trees will create a cohesive and visually appealing centerline without disrupting sightlines toward the eastern post office, addressing concerns raised by Commissioner Brittain Damgard about potential obstructions. The medians will be bordered with low 1-foot hedges and adorned with beds of white, purple, and yellow perennials, providing a vivid, inviting color palette for pedestrians and drivers alike. The royal palms that have defined the medians’ north and south sides will remain untouched, preserving the area’s signature look, while the existing 75 parking spaces along the medians will also be unaffected.
Rendering: SMI Landscape Architecture
Commissioner Alex Hufty Griswold recommended an additional touch: creating an opening in the eastern hedge surrounding the western median. This thoughtful modification would allow pedestrians to freely access both sides of Royal Poinciana Way, connecting the two medians more seamlessly and encouraging walkability in the area.
Jorge Sanchez, the founder of SMI, remarked that potential solutions to address jaywalking concerns could be discussed in the future, especially if The Breakers moves forward with its anticipated development of 251 homes south of Royal Poinciana Way. His comments highlighted a balanced approach to improving pedestrian accessibility while recognizing the project’s long-term adaptability to future community developments.
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