DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Between public and private projects, more than $200 million will be invested into downtown Daytona Beach over the next few years.

What You Need To Know

  • More than $200 million will be invested into downtown Daytona Beach

  • The development will focus on new apartments and a new riverfront park

  • Parts of the construction will be completed by the end of spring

The city hopes this commitment will bring more life to the area, while some downtown businesses believe this is exactly what they need.

“So I chose Daytona because I believe in Daytona,” explained Eva Capulli, the owner of Entrusca Gallery.

Capulli has lived in Daytona Beach for 12 years, after moving from Winter Park, Florida. The Brazilian-born artist now runs a local gallery doubling as a boutique in the heart of Beach Street. 

Being next to the water ultimately sold her on calling this place home.

“Think I have a vision that Daytona is going to be a very nice place in the near future,” Capulli said while donning a guitar in the creative space where she creates her art.

She and her family-centered business love their location in the historic portion of town. Her daughter is an artist as well.

“Back in the day, it was just thriving, and it was the place to be,” said Angela Doyle.

Downtown Daytona Beach is in the middle of trying to recapture that energy it once had daily. For the mother-daughter duo, having their art on display for a larger demographic would mean everything. That could be happening soon as projects begin to take form all around their building.

“This beautiful bathroom castle in front of Entrusca, I think it’s going to be very beautiful when finished,” pointed out Capulli. Right across the street is a $25 million riverfront park that is being built. The project is funded by Brown and Brown Insurance group. 

A portion of the park is expected to be completed by the end of spring, with the final project aimed for a fall opening. Further down the line is an $80 million apartment complex that city commissioners have already approved.

Framework Group is the company that will bring 300 units to Beach Street. The company anticipates having a finished product by the end of 2023. Entrusca and surrounding businesses are hoping to reap the benefits.

“So I’m very excited about this,” shared Capulli.

On top of those projects, $8 million is being invested to revamp Beach Street sidewalks. The Downtown Authority says these new projects ultimately showcase that it is a destination to be.