New City workforce training, updated plans for Cascades Garden

Build Up Tallahassee set to Launch

The City of Tallahassee is set to unveil its new Build Up Tallahassee career development program at a press conference today. The idea was initially proposed by Mayor Dailey at the City Commission Retreat in January and received unanimous acceptance. Since then, City Staff have been working to design a program that provides workforce training to job seekers utilizing our City's own assets. It will accompany already existing City workforce initiatives, TEMPO and the Future Leader's Academy, but will provide more direct training to individuals who are looking to enter into trade work.

The 12-week paid program which occurs during the summer will provide an experience that prepares individuals for an occupation in construction trades. Participants will receive formal instruction in workplace safety, commercial driving, and the use of heavy equipment necessary for roadway projects. They will also have a chance to learn on site with members of our Underground Utilities & Public Infrastructure Department as they work on City public infrastructure projects. The City plans to secure employment for each graduate of the program and several local private employers are already on board.

Developer Presents new Project to the CRA

New details and renderings are available of the mixed-use Cascades Gardenproject slated to be built along South Monroe. The developer, BugraDemirel, submitted a presentation to Community Redevelopment staffshowcasing the ins and outs of the proposed development. The project isto occur in three phases, beginning with mixed-use commercial andresidential space fronting the street, followed by mid-density townhomes, and finally, a single-family residential component abutting MyersPark.

Apalachee Center Services on the Rise

The Apalachee Center, a non-profit facility which provides psychiatric care to any and all individuals in the Big Bend region, has recently introduced two new services to our City. They've now been approved as an Alternate Court Site in Leon County which will allow a judge to travel to the Center to hear cases related to mental health issues. The Center has also recently formed the City's first Mobile Response Team (MRT). The MRT is able to respond to individuals experiencing mental health crises and offer assistance. They can also jointly respond to a scene alongside law enforcement.

Historic Knott House set for Rehabilitation

The Knott House is old. It sits downtown at 301 E Park Ave and it was constructed in 1843 by George Proctor, a renowned black home builder in Tallahassee.This single-family residence is now owned by the State and is home tothe Museum of Florida History. In the interest of maintaining thebuilding, the State is planning various enhancements to the buildingsuch as siding repairs, wood rot replacement, and new lighting.

Gulf Winds Credit Union to Open Downtown

Gulf Winds Credit Union is set to open a Downtown branch at 211 East Call St. They will be renovating the historic structure fronting Monroe St for their location. Parking will be provided in the rear now that Gulf Winds has destroyed the two iconic buildings adjoining their structure. I guess that's that.