City of New Smyrna Beach

Thank you to everyone who has shared their concerns about the former K-Mart building at 1724 State Road 44.

For the past two years, we have repeatedly and aggressively reached out to the property owner – US Realty 87 New Smyrna Beach based in Short Hills, NJ – and their real estate broker about redeveloping the site. The owner, who contracted with Wawa to redevelop that portion of their property in 2016, recently informed us there is interest from several national retailers and, should any plans beyond the scope of what is allowed under their Planned Unit Development agreement move forward, they will be reviewed through our public planning process including consideration by the Planning & Zoning Board and City Commission.

On the public safety front, our Code Compliance, Building & Inspections, and Police departments closely monitor the site and communicate regularly with the owner regarding concerns that have been raised about its condition and maintenance. Recent citations have been resolved swiftly, and none are currently open.

We understand and share your desire for productive reinvestment in this important commercial corridor and will continue to address code-related concerns as they arise.