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St. Petersburg Launches Planning Initiative for District 2

City officials and residents engage in a planning session for the redevelopment of District 2 in St. Petersburg, focusing on sustainable growth.

News Summary

St. Petersburg is initiating a transformative planning effort in District 2, focusing on scalable growth amidst rising population numbers and environmental concerns. A comprehensive master plan will be developed over the year, prioritizing community involvement and sustainability. With major corporations moving in, including Foot Locker, the area is poised for economic growth. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning environmental vulnerabilities, as officials seek to create a resilient infrastructure plan for the future.

St. Petersburg is embarking on a transformative city-led planning initiative in District 2, aimed at redeveloping the area amid rapid population growth and environmental challenges. The city officials are set to develop a comprehensive master plan over the next year, focusing on strategic and community-driven growth.

District 2, located in North St. Petersburg, is easily accessible via the Gandy and Howard Frankland Bridges. This area has become increasingly developed with visible construction sites and numerous real estate signs as the region transforms to accommodate its growing population. The district serves as a vital employment hub, hosting significant companies such as Raymond James, Jabil, Valpak, Franklin Templeton Investments, Power Design, and Fidelity Information Services. Recently, Foot Locker has announced plans to relocate its corporate headquarters from New York to District 2, further enhancing the area’s economic landscape.

The district is notable for having the second-highest population growth rate in St. Petersburg, witnessing an increase of approximately 3,250 residents between 2010 and 2020. However, the region faces potential environmental threats, with around 95% classified as a coastal high-hazard zone. The vulnerability of District 2 was highlighted during Hurricane Helene, which severely impacted neighborhoods such as Riviera Bay.

In response to these challenges, city leaders have recognized that intentional planning is crucial to address infrastructure issues exacerbated by ongoing development. City officials emphasize the necessity of community input to shape the future of the area’s redevelopment. A consulting firm, WSP USA, has been engaged to involve residents and business owners in the master planning process. The initiative will utilize technology, such as ESRI Story Maps, to create interactive digital maps that facilitate community engagement.

The planning process is designed to include multiple opportunities for public feedback throughout the year, striving to establish a considered blueprint for sustainable growth in District 2. A budget of $400,000 has been allocated for consultancy services related to the master planning effort, signaling the city’s commitment to a thoughtful redevelopment strategy.

District 2 is described by city officials as a “unique little place” with tremendous potential for redevelopment. The framework of the new master plan is expected to incorporate foundational principles of equity, resiliency, sustainability, and infrastructure. The project is set to provide regular updates to the city council and district stakeholders, starting with an initial kickoff meeting and district tour to outline the objectives and engagement strategies moving forward.

As the planning initiative unfolds, the city aims to ensure that future developments align with the values and needs of the community. The emphasis on community-driven planning is central to the strategy, ensuring that growth in District 2 will be both sustainable and beneficial for current and future residents.