“This is a very exciting area of the country and the demographics for the region are excellent. Walton County is at the forefront of the latest innovations in urban planning and design. Rockwood Capital is attracted to mixed-use designs because of the synergies that are created by viable mixed-use environments. We think Grand Boulevard has those characteristics."
--Christopher Fraley, senior vice president of New York-based Rockwood Capital, a private real estate investment company supplying financial backing and commitment to Howard Group development, Grand Boulevard at Sandestin®.
“We are there because of the man who created it. We have a great relationship with him."
--Kathy Self, Chief Real Estate Officer for Brooks Brothers of their 15 year relationship with developer Keith Howard.
“…Keith comes to the table and decides what will benefit the community. He’s involved in every charitable organization you can imagine; he’s involved in the community. He gives back, which is a rare trait.”
-- Destin, Florida Mayor Craig Barker.
“The impact of his projects on South Walton is inestimable. With high standards, he is helping to form a community and give it a positive direction.”
--Nancy James, original member of the South Walton Community Council.
“Keith is ethical, smart and hardworking. He’s done well for the city and Walton County. Most of his projects have taken place in Walton County but they have influenced Okaloosa County as well.”
--Dooley Culbertson, long-time partner of Howard.
“By his projects being at such a high caliber, they bring a quality visitor to the area. The economic impact is exceptional.”
--Dawn Moliterno, president and CEO of the Walton County Chamber of Commerce.
“Everything Keith has done has been first-class, quality development, which reflects well on the whole area.”
--Van Ness Butler, member of the Walton County Tourist Development Council and former Walton County commissioner.
“The wealthy demographics and powerful income levels in the primary and secondary-home markets, as well as visitors, make Walton County and the surrounding area among the most promising retail markets in the country. The quality of the Grand Boulevard project, including the design and architecture, are two of the most attractive aspects of the development. There is a real sense of place.”
-- Nick Koeijmans, a partner with Open Realty Advisors, consulting company that represents many of the world’s most prominent retailers and restaurateurs, and consults for Howard Group.
“Howard Group understands the needs of the community. The location of the development and unique tenant mix will separate the Town Center from other area shopping locales, however, it is the disciplined focus and dedication of the developer that makes the project truly special.”
-- Alan J. Barocas, retail consultant specializing in market analysis, planning, project roll-out and management. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees for International Council of Shopping Centers and is Dean of the School of Retailing for that group’s University of Shopping Centers.
“We are thrilled to open the region’s first Cheeseburger In Paradise at Silver Sands and have been extremely pleased with our success in less than a year’s time. The Gulf Coast area is a natural fit for our island-inspired restaurant, and it’s been extremely well-received by the community.”
-- Scott Raven, managing partner for Cheeseburger In Paradise.
