The Transit Village project was revived in 2006 by Commissioner Edmonson, who recognized the project’s benefits for the Liberty City community, located in her district. To jumpstart the project, the Commissioner first met with the principal stakeholders, such as area merchant and business owners, and other interested parties currently doing business at the southeast corner of NW 7th Avenue and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, to hear their ideas and seek their input.

“While there are many advantages to completing this project, perhaps the most important is the improvement in quality of life for the residents who would be living at and in the vicinity of the Transit Village,” said Commissioner Edmonson. “Business should benefit from the addition of retail and office space. Multiple housing options will be available, and residents can take advantage of shops and public transportation in such close proximity to their homes.”

As a demonstration to her commitment, Commissioner Edmonson earmarked the total $10.5 million of her portion of the GOB Preservation of Affordable Housing funding toward the project.

At the town hall meeting, business opportunities and job creation were the primary topics of discussion between the participants and County leaders.  Several members of the community wanted commitment and assurance from the County that minority participation and employment opportunity would be guaranteed.

County leaders stated that the process will be open and competitive and that minority firms and area residents would be under consideration for contract and employment possibilities.

“With the addition of the Walgreen’s Pharmacy, the opening of the Edison Plaza Shopping Center, the upcoming construction of a brand new Martin Luther King Business Center and the 7th Avenue Transit Village, Liberty City’s main commercial hub is indeed getting a new face, which I hope will serve as a catalyst for the development of the whole area,” said Commissioner Edmonson.

 
Commissioner Audrey M. Edmonson presents the conceptual design for the 7th Avenue Transit Village during a town hall meeting at the Joseph Caleb Center on October 14, 2009.