This grass-roots self-sufficiency program is designed to empower the residents to build a process that results in neighborhood revitalization, crime reduction, improved heath care, job creation, and enhanced community services (e.g., social services such as affordable child care).
The goal is to raise awareness of community problems which contribute to crime and related activities, and provide self-sufficiency programs and opportunities which help people transition from welfare to independent economic status, while simultaneously improving the physical aesthetics of the neighborhoods.
The Neighborhood Revitalization Program Coordinator utilizing a "holistic" approach to neighborhood revitalization and redevelopment. This concept is premised on the fact that no single action can "turn a neighborhood around"; rather, the combination of improved housing conditions, adequate infra- structure, crime prevention, education/vocational training, economic development initiatives (job development/ place- ment), subsidized child care, health care, etc., must be brought together to create a significant and positive impact on the community.
A comprehensive “Needs Assessment” was undertaken; and, the specific needs of each Target Area were then evaluated. Programs and activities were subsequently formulated into a Revitalization/Redevelopment Plan tailored to meet the individual needs of each targeted area.
Target Area residents are given the opportunity to play an active role of in “holistic” approach of neighborhood revitaliza- tion during monthly community meetings. The community meetings are held at a central location in each Target Area, and are generally attended by the Elected Officials, Davie Police Department, Housing and Community Development staff, and other public officials.
In an effort to promote community involvement, the Housing and Community Development Department has created a Safe Neighborhood Team which is comprised of the Target Area residents, Town employees, and other interested parties. The purpose of the team is to facilitate unity and pride within the Target Areas through community activities (assisting seniors, neighborhood clean-ups, special events, etc.).
Needs Assessment Surveys
The Housing and Community Development Department’s Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) staff undertook a “Needs Assessment Survey” of the residents living in Davie’s three (3) CDBG Target Areas, to determine the services and programs needed to enhance their quality of life.
The NRP staff conducted a mass mail-out of the survey instrument in both English and Spanish to every resident in the three (3) CDBG Target Areas and also conducted door-to-door surveys from March 7, 2007 to May 4, 2007.
Geographical Descriptions of CDBG Target Areas:
Western Target Area a/k/a Orange Park: The Western Target Area is located north of SW 14th Street between 130-136th Avenues, in Census Tract 703.05 BG 1, which encompasses the Orange Park Trailer Park, Flamingo Elementary School, and Western High School.
Total Population 3341
Low-Moderate Income Population 68%
Unemployment Rate 4.92%
Average Household Income $40,669
Female Head of Households 31%
Southern Target Area a/k/a Driftwood: The Southern Target Area is located in CT 705.02 BG 1& 2; and, is situated south of Stirling Road, east of 78th Avenue, and north and west of the Davie Road Extension.
Total Population 4,729
Low/Moderate Income Population 80%
Unemployment Rate 6.57%
Average Household Income $30,055
Female Head of Households 51%
Eastern Target Area a/k/a/ Eastside: The Eastern Project Area is bounded to the north by SW 29th Street (near Nova Drive), to the south by Orange Drive, and was formerly bounded to the west by Davie Road, and to the East by the Florida Turnpike.
Total Population 7,437
Low/Moderate Income Population 77%
Unemployment Rate 7.10%
Average Household Income $31,707
Female Head of Households 36%
Survey Sample
Driftwood 323 surveys completed
Orange Park 225 surveys completed
Eastside 429 surveys completed
Total Surveys 977 total surveys
Top Five (5) Needs Identified in Each Target Area
Driftwood
1. Crime Reduction
2. Affordable Childcare
3. Affordable Rental Housing
4. Healthcare
5. First-Time Home Buyers Programs
Orange Park
1. Crime Reduction
2. Affordable Rental Housing
3. Mobile Home Repair Grant
4. Affordable Childcare
5. Healthcare
Eastside Target Area
1. Crime Reduction
2. First Time Home Buyers Program
3. Healthcare
4. Affordable Childcare
5. Affordable Rental Housing
United Way Household Issues Survey - July/August 2003
Purpose of Survey -The purpose of this survey was to gather information for the United Way of Broward County, concerning items that need the most improvement in the community. The survey also gathered information concerning different socio-economic factors that affect Davie households.
Sample - The survey was conducted in the Town’s CDBG Target Areas (Orange Park, Eastside/Potter Park, and Driftwood). A total of 80 residents was surveyed from July 17, 2003 to August 18, 2003.
Survey Results
Total Household Income
Giovanni Moss is the Town of Davie’s Neighborhood Revitilization Program Coordinator He can be reached at (954) 797-1226.
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