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The
Importance of
Commercial Truck Insurance in Hollywood, FL
- Let's face it - truckers in America have always been the backbone of our great country. They still are in modern times. On any given day, thousands of trucks traverse our highways and local roads, delivering goods and products on time so that businesses and consumers have what they need to live life. And while commercial trucking can be an incredibly lucrative way to make a living and put food on the table, it can also be risky and expensive.
- Whether you're the owner of a fleet, an independent trucker, or have a business that uses big rigs to transport goods, you need commercial trucking insurance to protect you and your client's investments, shield you from liability, and more.
- That's where working with a reliable truck insurance agency comes into play. Unfortunately, for many commercial truck insurance providers, serving the needs of truckers is low on the proverbial totem pole. At Independence Insurance Agency, nothing could be further from the truth.
Service Areas
The Commercial Truck
Insurance Agency in Hollywood, FL You Can Trust
Much like you pride yourself on running a successful trucking business, Independence Insurance Agency prides itself on its years of experience providing truck insurance for hardworking men and women across the country. And in our experience, insurance rates for truckers are just too high - so high, in fact, that they eat away at their bottom line, making it more difficult to run a business and make a profit. Fortunately, at Independence Insurance Agency, we provide truckers the freedom they need from astronomically high insurance rates so they can stay on the road and keep driving America forward.
As one of the most trusted commercial trucking insurance agencies in the U.S., we understand the challenges that you face daily as a trucker. We also know how important it is to protect your business. That's why we go above and beyond to find you the best-priced coverage available, whether you're an operator, own a small fleet, a large fleet, or something in between.
We Put Truckers First Because Others Don't
Truckers across the country choose to work with Independence Insurance Agency because we put their needs first before anything else. As experts in transportation insurance, we proudly offer a range of quality insurance products that are both practical and affordable for them. Our industry-leading carriers provide coverage that caters to the unique challenges faced by the trucking industry, ensuring that your business is protected at all times.
At our core, we are committed to finding the best possible price for your coverage without compromising the quality of service you deserve. The truth is, we understand how essential truckers are to the United States and take pride in making their insurance experience more streamlined and affordable.
One way we do so is by simplifying the insurance process. Our transportation specialists take the time to understand your specific needs and budget to tailor a comprehensive plan that works for you. You won't ever have to worry about cookie-cutter plans or uninterested agents when you work with our commercial trucking insurance agency. We take an educational approach to ensure that the entire big rig insurance process is quick, painless, and easy to understand. If there's something you don't understand, we're happy to take the time to explain. After all, the success and safety of your business are on the line.
Looking to the future, we are committed to providing innovative new products that cater to the ever-changing needs of truck drivers. As your one-stop shop for commercial trucking insurance, we are dedicated to your success, one policy at a time.
If you're a commercial trucker looking to ensure your rig, you can rest easy knowing that Independence Insurance Agency provides:
- Affordable Trucking Insurance Plans for Any Budget
- Exemplary Customer Service
- Seasoned Transportation Specialists Who Customize Plans to Your Needs
- A+ Carriers Across the Country
- Simple, Easy Quote and Bind Process
- Multiple Insurance Carriers Quoted to Find You the Best Rates
- Truck Insurance for New Ventures
Call us or send us a message today to learn more about the best 18-wheeler insurance options for your trucking business.
The Commercial Truck
Common Types of Big Rig Truck Insurance in Hollywood, FL
At Independence Insurance Agency, we offer several types of insurance coverage for local, intermediate, and long-haul trucking needs. Here are just a few categories of trucking insurance coverage that our agency offers.
As the foundation of your insurance policy, liability coverage is required by law in most states in the U.S. It provides coverage for damage or injuries caused to properties or other people if your 18-wheeler is responsible for the crash. Without liability coverage, it's almost impossible to drive a truck or run a trucking business without major legal consequences.
Having physical damage coverage is an essential component that shouldn't be overlooked. This insurance is responsible for covering the expenses related to repairing or replacing your truck in situations such as accidents, theft, vandalism, and other damaging events. By having this coverage, you can rest assured that your business won't be affected significantly by unexpected incidents, and you can continue running your operations smoothly even in challenging times.
For trucking companies, the goods they transport are crucial to their operations. To protect these goods from damage, loss, or theft while in transit, cargo insurance is essential. This coverage provides much-needed peace of mind for both you and your clients, allowing you to reimburse clients for any losses sustained while protecting your reputation and brand identity.
Non-Trucking Liability Insurance is designed to cover property damage or bodily injury that may occur during personal time when the driver/truck is not under dispatch. This coverage can be applied with or without a trailer and is added to a commercial policy as an endorsement.
While Independence Insurance Agency has built a reputation of excellence in serving the needs of truckers, we also offer general liability. Also known as Truckers General Liability, this coverage insures for bodily injuries or property damage that happen due to business activities that are NOT the cause of operating a truck. It covers accidents that occur in parking lots, rest stops, also while loading or unloading. General liability can also cover losses related to theft and vandalism. Most brokers and shippers will require this coverage to work with you.
Bobtail insurance is a type of coverage that is comparable to non-trucking liability, which is designed to offer protection when driving a truck without a trailer attached. This is commonly referred to as "bobtailing." With bobtail insurance, the tractor is covered at all times, even when it is not attached to a trailer, regardless of whether or not the truck is under dispatch.
Trailer interchange insurance is a must-have if you're involved in a trailer interchange agreement. This essential coverage offers protection for trailers owned by other parties that you're using under a contractual agreement. It covers damages caused by collisions, fire, theft, and vandalism, providing assurance to all parties involved.
Curious whether our commercial truck insurance agency in cityname, state offers additional coverage? The following options can be bound in your insurance policy:
- Business Interruption Insurance
- Reefer Breakdown Insurance
- Occupational Accident with Contract Liability Insurance
- Rental Reimbursement Insurance
- Underinsured or Uninsured Motorist Insurance
- Towing Insurance
- Electronics Insurance
- Much More
3 Safe Driving Tips to
Lower the Cost of Truck Insurance in Hollywood, FL
Keeping your drivers safe on the road is crucial not only for their own well-being but also for the safety of other motorists and the financial stability of your business. The Department of Labor has identified the trucking industry as one of the most hazardous sectors in the U.S. In fact, trucking and logistics fleets are known for their high injury and fatality rates. By improving how safely your truckers drive, you can help reduce expenses related to claim payouts, accidents, and insurance premium hikes.
Whether you own a large fleet or you're the owner and operator of a single rig, keep these safe driving tips in mind to help lower your insurance costs.
Implement Preventative Maintenance Plans
Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.
This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.
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Practice Defensive Driving
This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.
Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:
- Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
- Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
- Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
- Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
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Find Ways to Prevent Distracted Driving
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.
Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.
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Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.
This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.
Call Now
This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.
Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:
- Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
- Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
- Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
- Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
Call Now
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.
Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.
Call Now
FAQs About
Independence Insurance Agency
If you're looking for a commercial trucking insurance agency for your business, chances are you have some questions - and we've got answers. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most commonly asked questions we hear from truckers like you.
Why go with a "jack of all trades" when you can work with specialists who focus exclusively on transportation insurance? We have excellent relationships with major trucking insurance carriers and, as such, can provide the best assistance and reasonable rates.
Typically, companies will look at claims that date back three years or less.
We proudly work with more than 20 carriers to provide our clients with the most advantageous options at competitive prices, catering to the needs of owner-operators and big fleets alike.
Permit filings are typically done by insurance companies on the next business day. Federal (FMCSA) filings are completed online and updated immediately, while some states may take up to three weeks to process.
Independence Insurance Agency: Committed to the Trucking Industry
There's no question about it - you've got to protect your staff, your rig, and your trucking business with insurance. But choosing the right insurance partner isn't always easy. Thankfully, with Independence Insurance Agency by your side, you can rest easy knowing you're covered no matter where the road takes you. If you're in need of a commercial truck insurance agency in Hollywood, FL that caters to truckers like you, pick up the phone and contact one of our transportation specialists today. That way, you can get back on the road with confidence tomorrow.
Latest News in Hollywood, FL
Is the Hollywood Beach Resort getting demolished? Here’s what we know
Raisa Habershamhttps://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/broward/article286678905.html
Unconfirmed reports that the Hollywood Beach Resort is being demolished have had residents concerned about the future of the former hotel built by the city’s founder, Joseph Young.But the fate of the nearly 100-year-old relic, which was evacuated last summer after the city deemed it unsafe to live in, remains uncertain. No formal plans have been submitted to the city ...
Unconfirmed reports that the Hollywood Beach Resort is being demolished have had residents concerned about the future of the former hotel built by the city’s founder, Joseph Young.
But the fate of the nearly 100-year-old relic, which was evacuated last summer after the city deemed it unsafe to live in, remains uncertain. No formal plans have been submitted to the city to demolish the overall structure or to develop the existing beachfront property, which most recently was operated by a condo board.
What is confirmed: at least one small portion of the building will be coming down. Owners of the property filed for a permit in February 2023 to demolish the wood frame breezeway canopy in the back of the hotel and paid the $5,383 price tag to tear that portion down, according to online records. They received a demolition permit earlier this month.
RELATED: Hollywood Beach’s ‘Grand Lady’ needs a lot of help if she’s going to reach 100
Hollywood spokeswoman Joann Hussey said a building official authorized a fence to be installed around the property to prevent unauthorized entry during the demolition.
The building has both an unsafe structures violation and a code violation for failure to comply with Broward County’s building code and inspection program. A 50-year recertification conducted in 2022 indicated the building needed structural and electrical repairs, according to the recertification report.
The Hollywood Beach Resort was built in 1925 by Young and consisted of 500 rooms and the world’s largest solarium at the time. Situated in the city’s historic district, the hotel played a pivotal role in World War II, serving as the United States Naval Indoctrination and Training School.
After the war, the hotel was refurbished and reopened under new management. Following its heyday, the hotel was the home of Florida Bible College, a movie theater and a mall before eventually becoming timeshare-operated condos.
READ MORE: A 99-year-old Hollywood home is as old as the city. It could soon be demolished
In recent years, the New York-based developer Chetrit Group purchased the condos but has not specified what it plans to do with the property. Efforts to reach representatives with the Chetrit Group were unsuccessful, and an attorney representing the developer said he could not provide any additional information on the property.
Clive Taylor, president of the Hollywood Historical Society, said the part of the building that is set to be demolished was an add-on completed in the ‘80s that is in “very bad shape.”
Taylor said the owners might face complications developing the property because the parking garage and the property in front of the hotel are eachowned by separate entities.
“There’s a lot of components to this puzzle, but the land is valuable,” Taylor said.
10 best air conditioning repair companies in Hollywood, Florida
Josie Nesbithttps://www.usatoday.com/money/homefront/local-pros/air-conditioning-repair-hollywood-fl/
A malfunctioning AC can be a nightmare in the middle of summer. Calling one of the top AC technicians in Hollywood, Florida, is the best way to resolve your AC issue quickly and painlessly.AC problems occur for many reasons, and it’s better to find a licensed and insured AC repair company than attempt to fix the problem on your own.AC repair requires proper training and certification. Technicians who handle refrigerants must pass a test and earn a certification through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).With...
A malfunctioning AC can be a nightmare in the middle of summer. Calling one of the top AC technicians in Hollywood, Florida, is the best way to resolve your AC issue quickly and painlessly.
AC problems occur for many reasons, and it’s better to find a licensed and insured AC repair company than attempt to fix the problem on your own.
AC repair requires proper training and certification. Technicians who handle refrigerants must pass a test and earn a certification through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
With average summer temperatures above 89 degrees in Hollywood, a broken AC is a nightmare. Don't push off repairs until the temperature in your home becomes intolerable to call a professional. When your AC has a problem, get estimates from several local AC pros to find a provider that works within your budget.
Find the best local AC repair company for you in Hollywood
Look for AC repair companies in Hollywood with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB). Use the filters below to help you find the right company for your needs.
1 star
2 stars
3 stars
4 stars
5 stars
Repair
Install
Maintenance
Filters
Inspection
Air Conditioning
Heating
Pellet Stove
Ducting
Ventilation
Filtration
AC Repair
AC Installation
Furnace Repair
Furnace Installation
Emergency Services
Thermostat Installation
Thermostat Repair
Indoor Air Quality
Carbon Monoxide Testing
Solar HVAC
Smart Home Integration
Zoning Systems
Geothermal Heating
Duct Cleaning
Boiler Repair
Boiler Installation
Energy Efficient Audits
Rooftop HVAC
UV Purifiers
Radiant Heating
Ductless
Hallandale Beach AC Services
Top Rated
Nearby
Services Offered
AC InstallationMaintenanceAC RepairIndoor Air Quality
136 NE 1st Ave #201, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
(954) 360-3023
www.hallandalebeachacservices.com
Weathershield Air Conditioning
Top Rated
Nearby
Services Offered
DuctingDuct CleaningIndoor Air QualityAC RepairMaintenanceEmergency Services
3121 Southwest 21st St #673, Pembroke Park, FL 33009
(954) 985-9900
AAA Modern Air
Top Rated
Popular
Nearby
Services Offered
Emergency ServicesInspectionAC RepairMaintenanceIndoor Air QualityAC InstallationDuct Cleaning
901 Phippen Waiters Rd, Dania Beach, FL 33004
(954) 921-4486
Hollywood AC Services
Top Rated
Nearby
Services Offered
AC InstallationIndoor Air QualityMaintenanceAC Repair
4407 Sheridan St #23f, Hollywood, FL 33021
(954) 363-0112
City Air Conditioning Solutions
Top Rated
Nearby
Services Offered
AC InstallationIndoor Air QualityMaintenanceEmergency ServicesAC Repair
6630 Meade St, Hollywood, FL 33024
(561) 592-5540
Advance Cool Air
Top Rated
Popular
Nearby
Services Offered
AC InstallationIndoor Air QualityAC RepairMaintenanceDuct Cleaning
20200 NW 2nd Ave Unit 306, Miami, FL 33169
(305) 331-7569
AMI Air
Top Rated
Popular
Services Offered
AC InstallationIndoor Air QualityEmergency ServicesAC RepairDuctless
4717 Orange Dr, Davie, FL 33314
(954) 966-2380
Florida Clean Air Plus
Top Rated
Services Offered
Emergency ServicesDuct CleaningMaintenanceAC InstallationDuctlessAC RepairSmart Home Integration
15251 NE 18th Ave Suite #3, North Miami Beach, FL 33162
(800) 695-1815
Fort Lauderdale AC Expert
Top Rated
Services Offered
MaintenanceAC InstallationIndoor Air QualityAC Repair
2784 Davie Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
(954) 320-7117
www.fortlauderdaleacexpert.com
A+ ESC Air Conditioning Services
Top Rated
Services Offered
AC InstallationMaintenanceFiltrationIndoor Air QualityDuct CleaningAC RepairInspection
1030 Wyoming Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
(954) 687-5950
aescairconditioningservices.com
What are signs your AC unit needs to be repaired?
The following are some signs that your AC unit needs to be repaired:
Facts about Hollywood
Average High in July
89°F
Hollywood
Average Low in January
Average Daily Sunlight
How do you choose the best AC repair company in Hollywood?
These factors can help you hire the best AC repair company in the Hollywood area.
Only hire AC repair technicians with proper licensing and insurance. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation requires HVAC contractors to maintain proper licensing. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all HVAC technicians who work with refrigerants to be certified. Other requirements include worker's compensation insurance and a cash bond or surety.
While not mandatory, there are national accreditations for AC pros, such as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). Having a certification from one of these professional organizations offers proof of a technician's skill and knowledge in the field.
Take advantage of free estimates, which most AC repair companies offer. This involves a professional coming to your home to assess the issue, suggest solutions and give you a quote. The technician should thoroughly inspect your AC system before making a diagnosis.
Ask for itemized estimates from multiple companies to compare costs. Reviewing rates from multiple providers will help you find the average local price range. Be cautious of offers that are much higher or lower than the average.
Ask how familiar the technician is with your AC's brand and model. HVAC technicians work with several kinds of heating and cooling equipment, but some specialize in certain types of systems.
Ask friends and family for personal recommendations for AC repair companies. Always look up online reviews for professionals you're considering hiring.
When browsing reviews, watch out for consistently bad feedback. Make sure you're reading current reviews, as the company's work quality could have changed over the years.
What are popular types of AC units in Hollywood?
Here are the most common types of AC units in Hollywood and which homes they work best for:
Best air conditioning repair for you
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Our methodology for selecting AC repair companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
Our editors may use AI as an input tool to tailor information in local markets. All content goes through a rigorous research and review process led by our team of writers and editors.
100 Years Young: The City of Hollywood Plans Another Century of Growth
Brand Studiohttps://therealdeal.com/sponsored/city-of-hollywood-fl/100-years-young-the-city-of-hollywood-plans-another-century-of-growth/
As the City of Hollywood, FL, prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2025, officials are laying the groundwork for another century of success. Alongside a calendar of historically-themed events marking the occasion, the city is overseeing updates to its legendary golf courses, a holistic review of urban development strategy, and a revitalization of transportation infrastructure both locally and regionally. The Real Deal sat down with Assistant City Manager Raelin Storey to learn about plans for marking the anniversary and how the c...
As the City of Hollywood, FL, prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2025, officials are laying the groundwork for another century of success. Alongside a calendar of historically-themed events marking the occasion, the city is overseeing updates to its legendary golf courses, a holistic review of urban development strategy, and a revitalization of transportation infrastructure both locally and regionally. The Real Deal sat down with Assistant City Manager Raelin Storey to learn about plans for marking the anniversary and how the city is capitalizing on both recent trends and the city’s heritage to make the most of the next hundred years.
Honoring Hollywood’s Past
City of Hollywood founder Joseph Young arrived in South Florida in 1920 with a vision for a master planned community that would “be a city for everyone.” By the time the City of Hollywood was incorporated five years later, Young’s dream of a master planned community based around one central boulevard had been realized, along with a series of parks and other public works that residents still enjoy to this day.
Today, Storey and the City of Hollywood are looking to the past as inspiration, both for the Centennial celebrations and the next phase of urban planning and development. “We have a Centennial Committee working on a full calendar of events,” Storey told us. “We’ll have special editions of annual events like our concert series, as well as retro events like a sock hop at our new indoor sports facility.” Throughout 2025, the city will host a series of these decade-themed events at historic buildings around town, where citizens can expect a chance to recapture the glamor of the Roaring ‘20s and the freewheeling spirit of the ‘60s.
Often hailed as a golfing mecca, the City of Hollywood is considering a Golf Classic to honor the sport’s early days in the Sunshine State and celebrate the range of world-class golfing being developed in the city.
“We’re redoing our Hollywood Beach Golf Course, which was the first course in Hollywood,” says Storey, “and the city owns another 36 hole course that’s being redeveloped with a Rees Jones design.” Counting the facilities at Emerald Hills and the forthcoming Shell Bay, “within five years Hollywood will have courses from Greg Norman, Jack Nicklaus, and Rees Jones.”
Thoughtful Redevelopment
Last time we spoke with Storey, she highlighted redevelopment efforts in the City of Hollywood’s downtown. Since then, the city has widened its scope and begun a series of corridor assessments to give the rest of its acreage the same level of attention that the downtown has received. “Each corridor has its own unique identity and feel,” explains Storey. “We want to embrace the positives while getting people to reinvest in real estate that might be outdated or outmoded.”
Most of these corridors are already anchored by thriving businesses, like the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood at one corridor’s northern end, and the auto dealerships that define another. Some of these assessments have already identified areas where older office buildings are having a harder time keeping tenants and places in need of additional housing, while others have highlighted development success stories.
“We’re looking at each neighborhood and asking, ‘What kind of businesses would fit here, and what can we do as a city to encourage appropriate redevelopment through our land use and zoning?’” says Storey.
Building Tomorrow’s Infrastructure Today
The City of Hollywood is also working with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to make infrastructure improvements around the city. One major project that was recently completed is the 441 Linear Park, located along US 441 in Hollywood.
“FDOT was looking at that five mile section of road and realized it was going to require a fairly significant dry retention area along one side,” recalls Storey. “Now that doesn’t sound very exciting, so we had to think about how to make lemonade out of lemons.” The state needed to acquire the land alongside the highway to add roadway and drainage area, and the City’s Public Works and Engineering Department had the idea of incorporating a greenway into the space.
“We turned it into an amenity,” explains Storey. “Now we have better lighting and nice landscaping, we put a little pocket park at one end, and there’s even a playground.” The city was able to enlist a development partner, Pinnacle Housing, to add three art pieces to the linear park, while Memorial Health System, another city partner, is looking to create exercise stations along its length. “It helps create a sense of community,” says Storey. “It tells residents that the corridor isn’t only for cars.”
Another major improvement coming down the line is the train station planned for the city’s burgeoning downtown. “Back in the 1920s, Hollywood had a station in its downtown,” says Storey. “The new station will be located less than 100 feet from the original location.”
The goal is to have the station built within the next three years, connecting downtown Hollywood all the way up into Palm Beach County and down into Miami Dade. “It will be really significant for our downtown and for the overall connectivity of South Florida,” explains Storey. “Being able to get off a train in downtown Hollywood and be on the beach in five minutes, it’s going to be ideal.”
For additional information on economic development opportunities in the City of Hollywood, check out the city’s economic development website or contact the economic development team at 954-921-3620.
Hollywood Beach prepares Broadwalk for heavy rainfall after residents, businesses suffered drastic flooding this year
Robbin Simmonshttps://wsvn.com/news/local/broward/hollywood-beach-prepares-broadwalk-for-heavy-rainfall-after-residents-businesses-suffered-drastic-flooding-this-year/
HOLLYWOOD, FLA. (WSVN) - Officials and residents are already preparing both physically and mentally for the potential effects of heavy rainfall.It was more than a little breezy on Hollywood Beach on Tuesday night there’s a slight chill in the air, but the forecast has some South Floridians’ minds frozen on images they just can’t shake from ...
HOLLYWOOD, FLA. (WSVN) - Officials and residents are already preparing both physically and mentally for the potential effects of heavy rainfall.
It was more than a little breezy on Hollywood Beach on Tuesday night there’s a slight chill in the air, but the forecast has some South Floridians’ minds frozen on images they just can’t shake from April 13 and Nov. 16.
A 7News viewer shared images from Fort Lauderdale’s Edgewood neighborhood just north of Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport.
“I try to get it in between the door and close it,” said Terry Large, who has lived there since 2013 and had to learn the hard way how to prepare. “We certainly don’t want to have damage to the house again because we just got through this we had the house redone essentially we had it down to the studs.”
Water has fallen faster than many homes and businesses could manage. Windy and rainy conditions are back in the forecast with four to eight inches of rain possible from Broward, Miami-Dade to Monroe Counties through the end of the week.
The City of Hollywood set up “tiger dams” on the Broardwalk; They stretch about a half-mile near the Johnson Street Bandshell.
The temporary dams are a way to prevent sand from being washed onto the Broadwalk with rough surf and higher-than-normal high tides.
Trevor Austin, a chef at Rocco’s Pizza said he’s happy to see the city preparing.
“We had tons of sand, water everywhere, it was kind of crazy,” said Austin. “We’ve got five days of rain coming til Sunday, I think it’s a good idea they did it.”
With all that potential precipitation on the way, it’s clear why some people are feeling a sense of dreadful deja vu.
“It really impacts you,” said Large. “People don’t realize how much a flood impacts you, psychologically and financially, the stress is just unbelievable when it’s happening to you.”
This is the third time heavy rainfall has been predicted to land in South Florida in the last seven months.
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Developers revitalize historic Downtown Hollywood in South Florida
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People visiting Hollywood, Florida often bypass the city’s downtown and head right to the award-winning beach and historic Broadwalk. However, a new wave of development activity is attracting both residents and businesses back to the core of the city.Downtown Hollywood has a growing pipeline of residential mixed-use projects that are energizing what has long been an underutilized area of the city. More than 3,500 new residential units are either under construction or approved in Downtown Hollywood and along the major corridors w...
People visiting Hollywood, Florida often bypass the city’s downtown and head right to the award-winning beach and historic Broadwalk. However, a new wave of development activity is attracting both residents and businesses back to the core of the city.
Downtown Hollywood has a growing pipeline of residential mixed-use projects that are energizing what has long been an underutilized area of the city. More than 3,500 new residential units are either under construction or approved in Downtown Hollywood and along the major corridors within walking distance of the downtown core.
“The current volume and quality of both public and private investment in the City of Hollywood is the highest it’s ever been,” says Assistant City Manager Raelin Storey. “As the city approaches its 100th anniversary in 2025, this will ensure the city continues to live up to its original vision of being a vibrant, resilient and welcoming city-by-the sea in Florida.”
Sitting between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the City of Hollywood was founded by Joseph Young in the 1920s. His vision was to create a “dream city” and urban village. What started out as a charming downtown two miles west of the beach, shifted with the expansion of U.S. Highway 1 that ran directly through the central business district.
“There really wasn’t any semblance of a pedestrian-oriented downtown,” says Jorge Camejo, Executive Director of the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency.
Over the past two decades, the city has worked to bring Young’s original vision back to life. The city has made key changes and investments that are now paying off with redevelopment activity concentrated in the downtown that is gaining traction along with a surge of demand from South Florida’s growing population. Some of the steps that have paved the way for that revitalization include a revised zoning code that supports smart, targeted redevelopment along with investments in infrastructure and beautification.
“The bottom line is that Hollywood really has the bone structure that makes it a very unique and special place,” says Camejo. The city and the CRA have been working together to build on Hollywood’s existing attributes, which include its beachfront and investment in amenities such as its Broadwalk and Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort. Investment in the beach is the economic engine of Hollywood, and downtown also is reaping the benefits of that as well, he adds.
The city and CRA have put a solid foundation in place to transform its historic downtown which is now producing results. They embraced a Complete Streets approach to create an environment that can accommodate vehicles and pedestrians. Vehicular access is now balanced with walkable sidewalks, electric shuttles and other methods of transportation along with better aesthetics. The city and CRA also have worked to support a vibrant dining and cultural scene featuring over 30 iconic outdoor murals and a wide array of sidewalk cafés with outdoor gathering spaces, including the ArtsPark at Young Circle that offers year-round, free special events and concerts.
The CRA is investing about $14 million in redoing the entire streetscape from 21st Avenue all the way to Young Circle on Hollywood Boulevard. In addition, the CRA has put in more lighting and is planning to redo many of the avenues to link the neighborhoods on the north side to the downtown. “The game plan is to create these pedestrian environments, and to make sure that these investments are creating quality projects that will be attractive to future patrons for this area,” says Camejo.
The city is now seeing a surge in residential development downtown that is creating a growing downtown population. Looking ahead, there is an opportunity to build on that core with additional residential units and commercial space for businesses that want to serve the growing population.
“There is certainly a lot to be excited about in Downtown Hollywood. The new streetscape on Hollywood Boulevard is underway and includes expanded sidewalks for additional outdoor dining, energy-efficient, historically inspired vintage lighting, and new landscaping that includes magnificent Medjool palms that are not only beautiful but also provide a canopy of shade and coolness,” says Hollywood Mayor Josh Levy. “These new public improvements and developments have clearly put Downtown Hollywood on the radar of investors, developers, and those seeking a South Florida tropical urban lifestyle,” adds Levy.
Some of the key projects reshaping Downtown Hollywood include:
1818 Park: This mixed-use development is located on the southwest quadrant of Young Circle. The development includes 269 upscale residential units with approximately 30,000 square feet of retail space, and it features a replication of the façade of the historic Great Southern Hotel.
Icon Office Building: Downtown Hollywood’s newest Class A building is four stories high and approximately 50,000 sq. ft. With large common areas, the building is designed with a modern minimal industrial feel. The building’s entrances feature cool tones and marble finishes. City National Bank is prominent on the ground level with two drive-through lanes.
Soleste Hollywood Village: The Estate Companies is developing a 503-unit luxury Class A apartment project on Van Buren Street adjacent to Young Circle. The developer also is planning Soleste Hollywood Boulevard, an eight-story, luxury Class A apartment project that will be located adjacent to North Dixie Highway and Hollywood Boulevard.
The Bread Building: BTI Partners is developing a mixed-use project located on the southeast quadrant of Young Circle at the site of the former Hollywood Bread Building. The development includes 361 multi-family units and 17,000 square feet of retail space.
B57 North and South: The planned redevelopment of the commercial parcel on the east side of Young Circle includes the reconfiguration of Hollywood Boulevard to connect directly with Young Circle, dividing the site into two development parcels. The proposed redevelopment includes north and south towers featuring 802 residential units and approximately 180,000 square feet of commercial/office space.
The investment in the area around Young Circle has served as an important catalyst to redevelopment activity.
“When developers see development occurring and cranes moving, that means that there is investment activity taking place,” says Camejo. “What we now see throughout the neighborhoods of the downtown is additional investment because we have created confidence that this is an area worth investing in. Frankly, we have more residential projects coming in then than we could have ever expected,” he says.
The City of Hollywood is helping to pave the way for developers through incentives and by streamlining its processes.
The revitalization occurring downtown is benefiting the entire City of Hollywood. “A successful downtown is an economic driver for any city. The addition of new luxury high and mid-rise apartment buildings not only provides quality housing options for those who seek an urban, walkable lifestyle, but the redevelopment of underutilized and outdated properties helps to support the city’s overall tax base,” says Storey. As more people move into the city they spend money in the businesses within the city, which in turn supports the creation of jobs and helps bolster economic resiliency across the city, she adds.
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