On April 22, 2025, the City of Oakland Park proudly hosted the Connected Communities Vision Kit unveiling in partnership with the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) at the Jaco Pastorius Park Community Center. More than 70 municipal leaders, urban planners, and community stakeholders attended to explore strategies for creating more connected and livable neighborhoods across Central Broward.
The program opened with remarks from the Broward MPO, which emphasized the importance of regional collaboration and recognized Oakland Park as a shining example of visionary, community-driven planning. The city was praised for successfully applying smart growth principles to fuel thoughtful development and long-term resilience.
Mayor Tim Lonergan then delivered remarks highlighting Oakland Park’s transformation, powered by robust community engagement, innovative zoning practices, and strategic investment. As an MPO Board Member and former President of the Broward League of Cities, he spoke to the city’s ongoing partnership with the MPO and its commitment to putting bold ideas into action.
Following the mayor’s remarks, the Connected Communities Vision Kit was formally introduced. This new resource was developed to support municipalities in driving economic growth and smart, sustainable land use planning.
The attendees had the opportunity to explore the Vision Kit hands-on while discussing its real-world applications in their own communities.
The event concluded with a guided bus tour of Oakland Park’s key redevelopment projects, including the home of the future City Hall in the Sky Building, Fire Rescue Station 9, City Centennial Park, North Andrews Gardens Community Center, and the Public Works Complex, as well as Blys, Oaklyn and Parc Developments.
The day served as a powerful showcase of what’s possible when strong public partnerships, innovative planning, and community collaboration come together to shape the future of Broward County. These efforts are part of Oakland Park’s broader initiative to enhance the community, reshaping the city into a vibrant, thriving destination for future generations.