News Summary
City officials in St. Petersburg are inviting new proposals for redeveloping the Historic Gas Plant District, an area recently promoted by the Tampa Bay Rays. As innovative ideas are sought to enhance the district, the expansion of local businesses such as a new national restaurant chain and a Barnes & Noble store reflects growth in the community. However, some retail chains are announcing closures, raising concerns about the local economy. Meanwhile, community initiatives and luxurious real estate projects are on the rise, showcasing St. Petersburg’s evolving landscape.
St. Petersburg city officials are actively seeking new proposals for the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District, an area recently highlighted by the Tampa Bay Rays, who announced plans to redevelop 86 acres within this historic site. This upcoming transformation presents an opportunity for innovative ideas from developers as city leaders aim to rejuvenate the district, which holds significant historical value for the community.
Parallel to these developments, the Tampa Bay area will see the introduction of a national chain renowned for its chicken and biscuits, marking its first restaurant location in the region, signaling growth in the local culinary scene. Another notable advancement includes the grand opening of a new Barnes & Noble store in Pinellas County, which spans 22,000 square feet and adds to the area’s retail diversity.
However, not all retail news is positive. Several retail chains have announced permanent closures of their locations in Florida in 2025, creating concerns about the local economy just ahead of the holiday shopping season. This reflects a broader national trend of retail struggles in the face of shifting consumer behaviors.
In community-focused news, the Peace River K9 Search and Rescue nonprofit organization is currently raising funds to address a budget shortfall that threatens its operations. This highlights the ongoing challenges many local nonprofits face in securing adequate funding to continue their vital services.
Additionally, St. Petersburg is witnessing the establishment of The Roaming Petal flower workshop business, which is setting up a permanent location and plans to celebrate its grand opening on November 4. This shop will feature St. Petersburg’s first drive-through flower shop, launched in partnership with the company Arms of Persephone.
In leadership news, Nicci Bucher has been appointed as the new CEO of the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg, starting in November. Bucher brings over 20 years of experience in nonprofit management and community development, which is expected to positively impact the organization.
In major real estate developments, plans for a $187 million luxury tower featuring 252 apartments and a rooftop restaurant are underway in Rocky Point, Tampa Bay. This high-end residential project reflects ongoing demand for upscale living spaces in the area. Simultaneously, Key International secured a $121 million construction loan for a 39-acre mixed-use development that will include 415 luxury apartments and a marina, further expanding housing options in Tampa Bay.
Amidst these residential advancements, the rebirth of a historic hotel on Captiva Island, which was damaged by Hurricane Ian, is currently in progress, with completion anticipated in the fall of 2026. This restoration highlights the resilience of local businesses and their commitment to revitalizing tourism in the area.
Rental trends also show that renters in Fort Myers and Sarasota are among the most mobile in the U.S., indicating significant turnover rates that affect the housing market. Meanwhile, in the business sector, Solomon Partners has renewed its lease at the Thousand & One tower in Water Street Tampa, suggesting a long-term commitment to the area’s development.
Finally, a point of cultural significance is the legacy of Ted Peters Famous Smoked Fish in St. Petersburg, which has been a family-run restaurant for 74 years. The establishment continues to thrive, serving as a cherished landmark that evokes nostalgia for many in the community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
St. Petersburg City Council Approves ULI Study for Historic Gas Plant District
St. Petersburg Prepares for Annual Firestone Grand Prix
St. Petersburg to Initiate Redevelopment Proposals for Historic Gas Plant District
Pinellas County Housing Authority Proposes Senior Housing in St. Petersburg
Pinellas County Rejects Twin City Mobile Home Park Expansion
St. Petersburg Opens Proposal Window for Affordable Housing
St. Petersburg Prepares for Historic Gas Plant District Redevelopment
Catalyst Lounge Owners Submit Offer for Woodson Museum Property
St. Petersburg Begins Transformative Affordable Housing Project
Charlie Crist Considers Run for St. Petersburg Mayor
Additional Resources
- The Gabber: The Roaming Petal
- TBBW Magazine: YMCA St. Petersburg’s New CEO
- Business Observer: Developer Loan for St. Petersburg Project
- Fox 13 News: Smokin’ Generations St. Pete Landmark
- The Gabber: St. Pete’s Edge District New Businesses
- Wikipedia: St. Petersburg, Florida
- Google Search: St. Petersburg Florida
- Encyclopedia Britannica: St. Petersburg Florida
- Google News: St. Petersburg Florida
- Google Scholar: St. Petersburg development
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG 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.
