WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. (March 18, 2021) - The Historic Northwest, known for its rich African American history and home to the historic Sunset Lounge, is seeing further physical enhancements with the Tamarind Avenue streetscape project. The project, which began March 2021 will include a complete makeover. Enhancements include new infrastructure such as a new water main – which will replace the current 100-year old conduit - servicing the north end of the city, undergrounding overhead utilities, improved sidewalks, lighting and landscaping. The Tamarind Streetscape project, which is estimated to cost $22 million, is expected to be complete in 2024.

Construction will occur in three separate phases:

• Area 1: 7^th Street, Carver Avenue to Tamarind Ave. – Water main installation only (through August 2021)
• Area 2: Tamarind Ave., Banyan Blvd. to 7^th Street (Mid 2021 - Mid 2022)
• Area 3: Tamarind Ave., 7^th Street to Palm Beach Lakes Blvd. (Mid 2022 to Mid 2023)
• Complete the undergrounding of the overhead utilities (Mid 2023 to Mid 2024)

“We are committed to making improvements and to investing in all of our neighborhoods to improve safety, quality of life and to attract economic development,” said West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James. “This project is an example of the city’s continued efforts to upgrade our infrastructure in all communities.”                                                             

“Not only is Tamarind Avenue a city connector for those who live and work here, it’s also home to more than several Black businesses and organizations in the Historic Northwest,” said CRA Executive Director Chris Roog. “This project and other improvements happening in this area improves the quality of life while also renewing interest and attention on this important neighborhood.”

Whiting-Turner Contracting Company (Whiting-Turner) was selected as the construction contractor for the project.   Whiting-Turner brings a wealth of knowledge to the project and their team has provided services to the City for over 20 years.  Projects include the Northwood Railroad Utility Relocation project; Broadmoor Neighborhood Improvements; Flagler Drive improvements; Dreher Park, Gaines Park and Howard Park Improvements; the City Commons Waterfront Docks; and several projects at the City’s Water Treatment Plant and Wastewater Treatment Plant.  They have also recently completed work for the Town of Palm Beach on the conversion of their overhead utilities to underground

For more information on the Tamarind Avenue streetscape project, please visit www.wpb.org/tamarindave or call (561) 822-1550.