Marion County Earns Prestigious Statewide Recognition for Silver Springs Redevelopment Planning

Marion County has received the 2025 Roy F. Kenzie Award from the Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) for its visionary planning work on the Silver Springs Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Master Plan. The award, recognizing excellence in planning studies for large communities, was formally presented to the county commissioners during the Nov. 4 county commission meeting, where commissioners serve as the Community Redevelopment Agency Board.

The updated master plan, titled Reimagine Silver Springs, reflects a collaborative effort among Marion County departments and agencies, including Growth Services, Community Services, Parks & Recreation, Public Relations, and the Tourist Development Council, in partnership with consultants from Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.

Anchored by Silver Springs State Park, the plan identifies four key catalyst concepts: mixed-use development, multi-family housing, resort lodging, and a revitalized town center. These strategies aim to strengthen the local economy, improve mobility, and celebrate Silver Springs' unique identity. Developed through extensive public engagement, market analysis, and careful planning, the Master Plan also outlines infrastructure upgrades, branding initiatives, and placemaking strategies to guide community reinvestment through 2052.

"This award reflects the dedication and collaboration of our county departments and partners in creating a comprehensive plan that reimagines the Silver Springs community," said Chuck Varadin, Marion County Growth Services director. "We are honored to be recognized by the Florida Redevelopment Association and grateful for the county commissioners' continued support."

Commission Chairman Kathy Bryant added, "Thank you to the entire team for this. We are really starting to see the fruits of our labor, and it is exciting to see the positive changes taking shape in Silver Springs."

The Silver Springs CRA continues to focus on sustainable growth, revitalization, and community engagement to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The FRA awards, which honor innovative approaches to community redevelopment, recognized 19 projects statewide this year for excellence across planning, rehabilitation, cultural enrichment, and other programs.

For a full list of 2025 FRA award recipients and project highlights, visit https://Redevelopment.net/2025-fra-awards.

About the Florida Redevelopment Association
The Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing community revitalization throughout the state. With a mission of "transforming spaces, revitalizing places," the FRA provides a collaborative forum for more than 300 members to share insights, best practices, and innovative solutions for redevelopment challenges across Florida. Learn more at https://Redevelopment.net