By Susan R. Wenner
Herald Publisher/ Editor
The City of Sanford’s CRA, Community Redevelopment Agency, will sunset on Dec. 31 after some 30 years.
According to information from City Hall, after 30 years of revitalizing neighborhoods, supporting small businesses and shaping the heart of downtown Sanford, the City’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is officially concluding its operations. The CRA leaves behind a legacy of progress, pride, and community transformation.
Since its creation in 1995 the Sanford CRA has been a catalyst for change, turning bold ideas into lasting results. From enhanced and fabulous streetscapes, restoring historic landmarks and creating inviting public spaces to supporting arts and culture initiatives, the CRA has helped define the city’s character and economic vitality.
Pamela Lynch, Sanford Community Redevelopment Agency
(CRA) Executive Director shared that after December 31, 2025, the CRA
Board can no longer meet and/or be able to fund any new projects. Active
projects that started prior to the sunset date have to be completed no later than
the project close-out date of December 31, 2026.
Her role as the Executive Director has her focusing on redevelopment and
economic growth within the designated CRA area.
Lynch works alongside other city officials on economic development
projects, including the recent revitalization efforts in downtown Sanford
and the upcoming Costco. She also worked on the free trolley program to
improve transportation in Goldsboro and Georgetown. In addition, The
Yardary, a new outdoor dining and entertainment space in downtown Sanford
was another development that Lynch was involved.
The CRA Board has 5 members, 3 appointed by the City of Sanford City Commission & 2 appointed by Seminole County Board of County Commissioners. They include Charles Davis - CRA Chairman, Joshua Snyder - CRA Vice-Chair and board members - Michelle Simoneaux, Doug McLendon and Tim Dolan.
Charles Davis, Sanford CRA Chairman stated, “Now that our CRA is in its 30th year, I look back at all of the projects led by the charge of the Sanford CRA that were brought to fruition, and am extremely proud of the efforts put forth by the CRA Board to revitalize the City’s historic core.”
The CRA has accomplished much over the years, Mayor Art Woodruff added, in a recent press release, “As the CRA sunsets, we will continue to see the benefits for many more years to come. The accomplishments of the CRA, board members, and staff members who have shared their time and expertise for the past 30 years will continue to drive growth and investment in downtown Sanford.”
Some of the projects that the CRA were responsible for include Downtown Revitalization: Streetscapes, lighting, and pedestrian-friendly spaces that invite residents and visitors to explore. Historic Preservation: Restoration of iconic buildings that preserve Sanford’s unique character. Small Business
Support: Grants and façade programs that helped local entrepreneurs thrive. Arts and Culture: Funding for public art installations, festivals, and special events that make Sanford a destination and Infrastructure Investments: Improvements to roads, sidewalks, and public areas that enhance quality of life.
Residents and businesses throughout Sanford have directly benefited from the CRA’s work, with many projects transforming underutilized areas into lively community hubs.
“As the CRA sunsets, we will continue to see the benefits for many more years to come,” said Mayor Art Woodruff. “The accomplishments of the CRA, board members, and staff members who have shared their time and expertise for the past 30 years will continue to drive growth and investment in downtown Sanford.”
