Fort Lauderdale, FL – March 21, 2024 – On Thursday global developer Hines and its local partner Urban Street Development celebrated the groundbreaking of FAT Village. Located at 521 NW 1st Ave, the project spans 5.6 acres and will encompass 835,000 square feet. Referred to as FAT (Food, Art and Technology) Village, the project is an innovative destination spread across two blocks and poised to become the revitalized focal point of the city of Fort Lauderdale’s art-centric district. FAT Village boasts two residential buildings and offers around 500 multifamily units, along with 80,000 square feet of space dedicated to curated food and beverage options, shopping, entertainment and art studios and galleries. Additionally, the complex includes 350,000 square feet of office space, housed in two of Hines’ proprietary heavy timber T3 (Timber, Transit, Technology) creative office buildings. The morning began with opening remarks from Alan Kennedy of Hines, and he was followed by speakers Alan Hooper of Urban Street Development, Mayor Dean Trantalis and Commissioner Scott Grossman. A celebratory toast concluded the remarks and the groundbreaking ceremony followed – key partners assembled at the dirt lot with custom shovels and hard hats for photo opportunities. A total of 17 hard hats were customized with seven unique artists’ designs, and artists Christian Feneck, Diana Paz and Derek Hunter were in attendance Following the ceremonial celebration, guests continued to partake in celebration festivities. Neighborhood businesses such as Wells Coffee and The Restaurant People provided libations and bites for guests. Live art was also present at the event, with an on-site mural being completed during the ceremony.