Margate CRA notifies board of $200,000 demolition contract and project updates for parks, fields

The Margate Community Redevelopment Agency was notified on Jan. 14 that the CRA awarded a competitively bid demolition contract totaling roughly $200,000 to remove four properties, including the Country Haven Motel, Motion Elevator site, an adjacent triplex and the site at Prince of Peace Church.

Executive Director Kelly said the Country Haven property required remediation that slowed progress, but a contractor is lined up and demolition should begin within the first months of the year once remediation and tenant move-out are confirmed. Kelly also said the CRA will use escrow and deposit funds as needed and indicated the agency expects to collect about $10,000 per month for tenants who remain beyond agreed move-out dates.

Staff reported that the Margate Sports Complex received eight bids to retrofit natural grass fields to turf; a selection committee shortlisted three firms and will hold presentations later this month with a hope to return to the board in February for a contract award. Coral Gate Park’s improvement project is in final phases with MBR Construction under contract to remove the old playground, install a new play surface, reface restroom buildings and add fencing. Chevy Chase Plaza management is compiling scopes for parking-lot repairs and cosmetic painting.

Board members asked about demolition timing and expressed concerns about overflowing garbage at some properties; staff said communications with neighboring Tamarac indicate tenants will vacate and that demolition will proceed once those matters are settled.