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West Palm Beach approves 344-unit apartment complex near PBI

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/3 .. pproves-344-unit-apartment-complex-near-pbi.html
  Published in House and Home on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 21:43 GMT by Palm Beach Post
      Locales: Florida, UNITED STATES

WEST PALM BEACH, FL - February 1st, 2026 - West Palm Beach is experiencing a significant surge in development, particularly around Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), and the latest addition is a 344-unit apartment complex approved by the city's Planning Commission on Tuesday. The project, spearheaded by developer ZOM Living, is located on Belvedere Road and promises a mix of residential and retail space, aiming to address the growing demand for housing in the region.

This development isn't occurring in a vacuum. It represents a larger trend of investment and expansion surrounding PBI, fuelled by the airport's increasing popularity and accessibility. Several other large-scale projects are already in the planning or construction phases in the northern part of West Palm Beach, creating a ripple effect of growth that is reshaping the area. Experts point to PBI's recent infrastructure improvements, including the expanded terminal and increased flight options, as key factors driving this boom.

ZOM Living acquired the undeveloped land last year and has spent the intervening months refining the proposal and addressing community concerns. The company presented its plans to the Planning Commission, focusing on the project's potential benefits to the city and attempting to mitigate potential negative impacts. While details regarding specific rent levels remain undisclosed, ZOM Living emphasized its commitment to providing a diverse range of housing options for residents of varying income brackets. This is a crucial aspect given the escalating cost of living in South Florida, where affordable housing continues to be a pressing issue.

The approval wasn't without its detractors. During the Planning Commission meeting, several local residents voiced anxieties regarding potential increases in traffic congestion and the overall impact on the character of their neighborhoods. These concerns are understandable, as a development of this size will inevitably alter the existing landscape. The Commission, however, appeared satisfied with ZOM Living's proposed mitigation strategies, which likely include traffic studies and potential road improvements.

Beyond the immediate impact on the Belvedere Road corridor, this project signals a broader shift in West Palm Beach's urban planning philosophy. For years, the city has prioritized low-density development, but the recent wave of approvals suggests a move towards more compact, mixed-use communities. This approach is increasingly favored by urban planners who believe it promotes walkability, reduces reliance on automobiles, and fosters a more vibrant community atmosphere. Furthermore, the inclusion of retail space within the complex is designed to create a "live-work-play" environment, allowing residents to conveniently access amenities without having to travel long distances.

Construction is anticipated to take approximately 24 months, meaning residents could begin moving into the new apartments in early 2028. This timeframe allows ZOM Living ample time to navigate potential supply chain challenges and ensure a quality build. The completion of the project will undoubtedly add to the already growing population of West Palm Beach and further strain existing infrastructure, requiring the city to proactively address issues such as school capacity, public transportation, and water management.

The success of this development, and others like it, will ultimately depend on careful planning, transparent communication between developers and residents, and a commitment to creating sustainable communities. The pressure is on for West Palm Beach to balance economic growth with the preservation of its unique character and quality of life. The influx of new residents also raises questions about local resources and whether the city's infrastructure can adequately support the expanded population. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether West Palm Beach can successfully navigate this period of rapid transformation and emerge as a thriving, livable city for all.