The Palmetto Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) received two statewide awards at the 2026 Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) Annual Conference, held last week in Charlotte Harbor, Florida, recognizing the Palmetto CRA’s efforts to restore environmentally sensitive land and attract major private investment. The awards honor its Estuary Preserve Cleanup and Environmental Stewardship Initiative in the Innovative Blight Management Programs category and the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa in the Outstanding New Building category. This recognition comes as the Palmetto CRA celebrates 40 years of community investment and highlights two distinct approaches to redevelopment: transforming a neglected waterfront preserve into a safe, accessible natural asset and supporting the development of the city's first full-service hotel, bringing new jobs, tourism, and economic activity to Palmetto.