The architect on the project is Coral Gables-based RaphaelPortuondo. The bank branch will feature Mediterranean mission-stylearchitecture and a tree-lined trellised entry. Amera Barronconsists of Coral Springs-based Amera Corp. and Coral Springs-basedBarron Real Estate. Barron Real Estate president Charlie Ladd tellsGlobeSt.com that the project is expected to cost $4 million. "Thisproject is at the edge of Downtown Fort Lauderdale," Ladd says."There has been a lot of revitalization in the area."

Other projects the team has developed in the area includeVictoria Park Shoppes; Park Plaza on the Curve, anchored by OfficeDepot; Palm Court Pavilion at the northwest corner of BrowardBoulevard and Federal Highway; the Downtown Starbuck's and theDowntown Kinko's.

"As with our earlier projects, we anticipate the Paradise Bankbuilding will be a catalyst to encourage the continuation of theprocess of replacing outdated, substandard commercial frontage withnew upscale properties benefiting the high-income demographics ofthe surrounding neighborhoods along the corridor," says Amera Corp.CEO and founder George Rahael.