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CEO Profile continued

Talking about the future, Ladd speaks
highly of adapting to change and
providing the community with what it may
need next. “The best part of what I do is to
create these places that people want to
come to.” says Ladd. “My partners and I
look for properties we can invest in and
really make a difference in the community.”
Las Olas as seen it’s fair share of ups and
downs. As landlords, Ladd and partners
have slowly upgraded or purchased
properties along the Blvd since 1999. “It’s
changed since then and we’ve tried to
adapt. Customers will support what works
best for them - we try to stay current.
Legacy locals like Ann’s Florist, Maus &
Hoffman, Moda Mario and Carroll’s
Jewelers need to be with tenants who
have a strong pull. There’s a balance.”

New expansion and redevelopment
projects are planned for the current Las
Olas Chemist’s Shoppe and Real Estate
offices. Changes include buildings pulled
back from the road, allowing for more
seating, shade and covered awnings.
“We see Las Olas as the Rodeo Drive of
Fort Lauderdale and want to be a part of
making that happen,” says Ladd. It can be
one of the best pedestrian streets in the
country - connecting the downtown to the
beach, through a commercial shopping and
dining district, surrounded by the prettiest
neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale.”

20 LAS OLAS BOULEVARD & ISLES