FY 25-26 WPB DDA Parklet Grant Program

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Program Overview and Purpose 

On May 19, 2020, in accordance with the Governor's Executive Order, the City of West Palm Beach issued a Declaration of Emergency, which allowed expanded outdoor seating for restaurants under a Temporary Outdoor Dining (TOD) Program. This ensured businesses had the greatest ability to operate successfully during the COVID-19 economic recovery. 

When the City's Declaration of Emergency expired, the TOD Program ended, but many businesses desired to retain their expanded outdoor seating. The City, in conjunction with the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA), developed revised regulations to provide additional flexibility for business owners and comfort for patrons. These regulations are set forth in Chapter 78, Article XVIII (Parklet Ordinance) of the city code. For Parklet Permit Application Information, please contact Claudia Ibaven at cibaven@wpb.org.

Purpose of Parklets
Built along sidewalks, parklets expand the public realm by transforming parking stalls into lively outdoor places where people can eat, read, sit, and relax while supporting local businesses. 

Parklet Grant Program
The Parklet Grant Program provides funding to downtown businesses within the DDA District Boundaries to upgrade or install a parklet. The program reimburses eligible expenses related to the development, construction, and operation of a parklet. Downtown small businesses are encouraged to apply. 

Eligibility Requirements 

  • Only parklets located inside the West Palm Beach DDA Boundary Map will qualify. 
  • Businesses must follow all City requirements pertaining to the Parklet Ordinance. 
  • The business must be open at the time of application. 
  • Only one grant award per business location per fiscal year (October 1 – September 30; last day to apply is August 30). 
  • If awarded, businesses may reapply three (3) years after a City Permit has been issued for their parklet. 
  • Funding is limited and administered on a first-come, first-serve basis until exhausted. 

Grant Application Process 

Applicants must submit a complete application package through Submittable that includes the following: 

  • Copy of the City of West Palm Beach Parklet Location Approval Letter 
  • Copy of the Current City of West Palm Beach Parklet Permit (completed and approved) 
  • Site plan of the parklet with details of new physical items to be installed with grant funds (e.g., seating, plantings) 
  • Proof of receipts (paid invoices, receipts, etc.) 
  • Applicant business’s W-9 

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Additional information may be requested by DDA staff or board. 

Application Requirements and Guidelines 

  • Maximum award amount: up to $10,000 per parklet location for qualifying reimbursable costs. 
  • Processing and approval of projects may take up to six (6) weeks. 
  • Applicants will receive a notification detailing grant amount, approved uses, reporting requirements, and conditions. 

Use of Funds 

Parklet Grant funds can be used for physical set-up or improvements that support outdoor dining. All awards are reimbursements. 

Qualifying reimbursable costs include: 

  • Lumber/plywood; composite decking; paints/stains 
  • Railing/fencing; contracted labor costs for construction and installation 
  • Permits, licensing fees, and delivery/shipping costs 
  • Prefabricated parklets (e.g., Dero) 
  • Tables, chairs, built-in seating/tables 
  • Planters, vegetation, umbrellas, canopies, shade structures 
  • Lighting, signage, object markers (high-visibility reflectors) 
  • Artist services integrated into the parklet 
  • Cooling/heating elements; solar panels (power outlet option) 
  • Bike racks, design fees, and parklet fees 
  • Other materials approved by the City of WPB Parklet Program 

Grant Award Details 

100% reimbursement upon: 

  • Completion of qualifying improvements (as determined by City of WPB officials) 
  • Proof of paid invoices for improvements 
  • Parklet space occupied and open for business 
  • Subject to DDA staff review 

Grant recipients must obtain all required permits within 12 months of award approval and maintain them as active/current. 

Parklet projects must be completed within 24 months of award approval. Otherwise, the award is revoked, and the applicant must resubmit application for approval  

For additional information, contact:  

Sherryl Muriente, Public Realm Director  

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority   

107 S. Olive Avenue, Suite 200,  

West Palm Beach, FL 33401 

(561)833-8873   •  smuriente@downtownwpb.com

We use Submittable to accept and review our submissions.
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