News Summary
A new apartment tower is set to enhance the skyline of St. Petersburg, with its height increasing from 21 to 23 stories. The project will provide 218 residential units and over 11,000 square feet of retail space, including a parking garage for 274 vehicles. Currently on hold due to economic conditions, the development aims to improve community spaces and pedestrian access while adhering to zoning regulations. This initiative reflects the ongoing transformation of the vibrant downtown area, promising an exciting future for residents and visitors alike.
Exciting Changes Coming to St. Petersburg’s Downtown Skyline!
St. Petersburg is buzzing with news as a proposed apartment tower project in the Marvelous Mirror Lake neighborhood gets a *big upgrade*! Originally set to soar 21 stories high, the project has just received the green light to rise to 23 stories. That’s right, folks – this means even more beautiful residential options for current and future residents in this vibrant part of the city!
More Space, More Homes!
There’s more good news! The number of residential units has also been upped from 200 to a whopping 218 units. This increase is just what the city needs as it continues to grow and evolve. But wait, there’s even more— the project will also boast over 11,000 square feet of retail space. Imagine all those new shops and dining options ready to set up shop! Plus, a space for parking? Yes, please! The plan includes a new parking garage offering 274 spots, giving residents and visitors peace of mind when it comes to parking.
Site Development Plans and Updates
The project encompasses several properties located at 685, 694, and 699 1st Avenue North, which were snagged by Gravel Road Partners for $6.4 million back in March 2022. They are also planning to include an additional adjacent property at 669 1st Avenue North, currently home to a 4,960-square-foot office building. No redevelopment plans for that office space have been added, so it seems like some of that classic St. Pete charm will remain intact!
Temporary Pause on Construction
We were all looking forward to seeing cranes in the sky, but it seems that construction is currently on hold due to some *economic conditions*. However, the minds behind this project are confident that the St. Pete area is on the fast track for recovery, especially when taking into account the vigor of the Tampa region overall. As this charming coastal city continues to thrive, residents can look forward to a more bustling atmosphere.
Enhancing Community Spaces
As if all that wasn’t enough, the development aims to revitalize the community with a focus on enhancing ground-floor activity. With a keen eye on improving pedestrian access and increasing open space, Gravel Road Partners are listening to local concerns, including those from the nearby Unitarian Universalist Church of St. Petersburg. Plans for a public plaza, complete with art installations and shaded areas, promise to make the tower not only tall but also inviting and accessible.
Zoning and Regulations
Let’s talk technical stuff! The property is situated in a zone labeled Downtown Center-1 (DC-1), which allows for a *base Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 3.0*. However, the new site plan calls for an adjustment to a FAR of 6.1. But keep in mind, due to Mirror Lake’s designation as a local historic district, developers will face a few more challenges as they navigate the regulations for building high-rises in this cherished area.
Past Successes Fuel Future Development
For those who may not know, Gravel Road Partners aren’t new to making an impact in St. Pete. They’ve previously kicked off construction on the *Bayou Court Apartments*, a 60-unit affordable housing project in south St. Petersburg. This shows their dedication not just to developing tall buildings, but to creating homes and spaces that put community needs first.
So, while we might have to wait a bit longer before seeing the towering new addition grace the St. Petersburg skyline, rest assured it’s all in the works. This project promises to inject new energy into downtown and elevate the living experience for residents. The city is transforming, and it’s about to get even more exciting!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Affordable Housing Initiative Approved in Pinellas County
Major Development Project Transforming St. Petersburg
The Central Project in St. Petersburg Nears Completion
New Hope for Affordable Housing in St. Petersburg
New 21-Story Mixed-Use Apartment Tower Approved for Downtown St. Petersburg
New Apartment Tower Planned for Downtown St. Petersburg
Major Construction Project to Transform St. Petersburg
Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: Rethinking Urban Development
- St. Peterising: Aerial St. Pete – Major Projects Progress
- I Love the Burg: St. Pete Waterfront Master Plan
- ENR: Best Landscape Urban Development – Coachman Park
- St. Peterising: Warehouse Arts District Upzoning Approved
- Wikipedia: St. Petersburg, Florida
- Google Search: St. Petersburg urban development
- Google Scholar: St. Petersburg construction projects
- Encyclopedia Britannica: St. Petersburg, Florida
- Google News: St. Petersburg development news
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
