Nevertheless, the community demonstrated resilience. Investors and hotel operators adapted, and federal programs during the New Deal helped maintain infrastructure. By the late 1930s, Palm Beach was once again attracting wealthy visitors, demonstrating the island’s enduring appeal.
World War II and the Military Influence
During World War II, Palm Beach’s strategic location along the Atlantic Coast brought military activity. While the island itself remained largely residential, nearby airfields, training facilities, and naval bases influenced the local economy. Tourism decreased during wartime, but the postwar boom revitalized the region and ushered in new development.
Postwar Expansion and Modernization
The decades after World War II saw modernization and expansion. Private estates continued to be built, but commercial development also increased. Roads were paved, utilities improved, and the island became more accessible to automobiles.
Real estate development expanded beyond oceanfront properties, creating neighborhoods for professionals, seasonal residents, and retirees. The city’s planning efforts focused on balancing luxury tourism, residential growth, and environmental preservation.
Preservation of Natural Landscapes
Despite development pressures, Palm Beach has emphasized environmental preservation. Efforts have protected beaches, dunes, and maritime hammocks. The Lake Worth Lagoon and surrounding wetlands have been preserved through public initiatives, maintaining ecosystems that support birds, marine life, and native plants.
Preservation also included architectural heritage, with many Gilded Age mansions designated as historical landmarks. These efforts protect both natural and cultural history, providing a living connection to the past. shutdown123