News Summary
St. Petersburg is exploring plans for the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District, currently home to Tropicana Field, including a potential new convention center. Local leaders believe this initiative could boost tourism and economic growth. Following a terminated stadium deal, the City Council is set to consider a feasibility study to assess market demand for convention spaces. Additionally, funds for repairs at Tropicana Field have been approved, signaling a broader strategy to revitalize the area as a community hub.
St. Petersburg is considering plans to redevelop the Historic Gas Plant District, a site currently occupied by Tropicana Field, the home of the Tampa Bay Rays. Local leaders are exploring the possibility of constructing a new convention center, which they believe could support regional tourism, economic development, and job creation. The St. Petersburg City Council received a letter from the city’s development administrator outlining these plans, following meetings with Pinellas County Administrator Barry Burton aimed at forming a strategic partnership for the proposed project.
The potential convention center would be evaluated through a feasibility study, focusing on market demand for convention and meeting spaces within Pinellas County. This study will also consider the optimal sizing and layout of the facility to meet anticipated needs. Plans for the partnership and study are expected to be presented to the City Council once they are finalized.
This initiative comes on the heels of the recent termination of a deal to build a new stadium at the Gas Plant District site. Although some have raised concerns about changes at Tropicana Field, Pinellas County Commissioner Vince Nowicki has indicated that a new convention center could complement the existing stadium rather than serve as a replacement.
Beyond this redevelopment proposal, St. Petersburg has approved additional funds for repairs at Tropicana Field following damages incurred during Hurricane Milton. Roof repairs are set to commence in July and are slated to continue until December, with interior repairs scheduled to begin in January. The Rays are currently hosting games at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa during this repair period and are expected to return to Tropicana Field by Opening Day 2026.
The timeline for both the convention center feasibility study and the repairs to Tropicana Field reflects a broader strategy to revitalize the Historic Gas Plant District, enhancing its role as a centerpiece for entertainment and gatherings in the region. The city administration’s efforts signal an investment in the future of the area, balancing the aspirations of local sports teams with community and business interests.
St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch has expressed optimism regarding the redevelopment possibilities for the Historic Gas Plant District, indicating that ongoing discussions with the Rays and potential investment opportunities signal a bright future for the site and its surrounding areas.
This move by local leaders is part of an ongoing effort to create a vibrant community focal point capable of attracting visitors and fostering economic growth. The collaboration between the city and county officials aims to ensure that the Historic Gas Plant site becomes a hub for activities that benefit residents and visitors alike.
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Additional Resources
- WTSP News: Tropicana Field Replacement Convention Center Plans
- Wikipedia: St. Petersburg, Florida
- St. Pete Catalyst: Convention Center Updates
- Google Search: Tropicana Field Development
- St. Pete Catalyst: Support for Convention Center
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Economic Development
- New York Times: Russia-Ukraine Economic Forum
- Google News: Historic Gas Plant District St. Petersburg
- St. Pete Rising: Waterfront Redevelopment Considerations
- Google Scholar: Convention Centers Economic Impact
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.
