News Summary
St. Petersburg is launching a major redevelopment project estimated at $161.7 million, focusing on the downtown waterfront, dubbed the Center for the Arts District. The initiative aims to enhance municipal amenities, stimulate economic growth, and gather community feedback without including a previously discussed conference center. Key developments include a new parking garage, an elevated walkway, and potential upgrades to cultural venues. The initial phase, projected to be completed by 2025-2030, is anticipated to boost the local economy significantly.
St. Petersburg is embarking on an ambitious redevelopment project estimated at $161.7 million along its downtown waterfront, which has been tentatively named the Center for the Arts District. The initiative seeks to expand and improve municipal amenities while fostering economic growth in the area.
The City Council has initiated extensive planning for the project, gathering feedback from stakeholders to ensure the development meets community needs. Notably, the plans will not include a conference center, which had previously been a significant focus of earlier discussions. In a recent 5-2 vote, the council allocated an additional $109,000 to the design firm ASD | Sky to enhance planning and community outreach efforts.
The redevelopment’s initial phase will concentrate on the areas surrounding the Mahaffey Theater and the Dali Museum, both of which are in need of upgrades. Discussions have highlighted a priority for creating a new parking garage and a grass promenade that will enhance views of Tampa Bay. The existing garage, about 45 years old, costs the city approximately $3 million annually for maintenance. The new structure is projected to offer a minimum of 1,100 parking spaces.
A proposed elevated walkway will link the new parking garage to both cultural landmarks. This promenade is envisioned as a linear park, complete with outdoor art exhibits or performance stages, allowing for community engagement and cultural events. Plans are currently flexible and will adapt based on public feedback.
Key enhancements include establishing a new venue for the Florida Orchestra and upgrading the track for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. Previous plans indicated a potential demolition of Al Lang Stadium to pave the way for a new amphitheater, although stakeholders expressed concerns regarding the stadium’s historic significance. Currently, there are no demolition plans slated, with discussions regarding how to accommodate the Tampa Bay Rowdies during the redevelopment still ongoing.
Economic assessments linked to the project forecast a potential infusion of $445 million into the local economy over the next 13 years. Despite these optimistic projections, some council members voiced concerns about project costs and the necessary infrastructure improvements, particularly for stormwater management.
The master planning for this endeavor has roots dating back to 2020 under former Mayor Rick Kriseman. The first phase of the Center for the Arts District is anticipated to be completed between 2025-2030 at a planned cost of $161.7 million. Future developments, including the demolition of Al Lang Stadium and expansion opportunities for the Florida Orchestra, could commence in a second phase projected between 2028-2038, with estimated costs reaching $127.5 million.
In summary, St. Petersburg’s Center for the Arts District redevelopment project marks a significant investment in enhancing the city’s cultural infrastructure, with expected community and economic benefits, all while addressing the concerns that arise during such transformative initiatives.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mazzaro Italian Market Named Best Grocery Store in the U.S.
St. Petersburg Terminates Deal with Rays for New Ballpark
Transformation of Former Edward White Hospital into Senior Housing
St. Petersburg Approves Extension for Tangerine Plaza Redevelopment
Tampa Bay Business Developments: Retail, Restaurants, and Real Estate
St. Petersburg Initiates Repairs on Tropicana Field After Hurricane Damage
St. Petersburg Set for Major Port Redevelopment
Tampa Bay Rays Engage in Exclusive Sale Discussions
Johnson, Pope, Bokor, Ruppel & Burns Expands St. Petersburg Office
St. Petersburg School Community Remembers Michael Dema
Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: Center for the Arts No Longer Includes a Conference Center
- Wikipedia: St. Petersburg, Florida
- St. Pete Rising: City Considers Demolishing Rowdies Al Lang Stadium
- Google Search: St. Petersburg redevelopment
- St. Pete Catalyst: St. Petersburg Terminates Municipal Marina Redevelopment Deal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: St. Petersburg, Florida
- Fox 13 News: St. Pete Leaders Debate Demolishing Al Lang Stadium
- Google News: St. Petersburg Florida redevelopment
