The Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is a public entity that finances redevelopment within focused areas. These areas tend to be older neighborhoods where there is a need to reverse deterioration, create jobs, revitalize the business climate, increase property values and encourage active participation and investment by citizens. The Martin County CRA was established under the guidelines of the Community Redevelopment Act (Chapter 163, part III, Florida Statutes) to carry out redevelopment and revitalization within designated communities, employing the most appropriate use of resources consistent with the public interest. Between 2000 and 2001 the Martin County Board of County Commissioners recognized the unfulfilled potential of seven established neighborhoods within the County and designated them as Community Redevelopment Areas: Golden Gate, Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Jensen beach, Old Palm City, Port Salerno and Rio. Each of the seven areas is diverse with characteristics ranging from coastal communities to rural agricultural centers. This diversity provides a wide variety of opportunities to live, work, play and invest. Over the years the CRA has facilitated redevelopment via adequate and efficient provision of infrastructure, housing and other community services. These investments help to preserve, promote, and improve the quality of life within the seven Community Redevelopment Areas.