Categories: College University Athletics

St. Petersburg City Council Approves University Area Tower

Proposed design for the new 21-story mixed-use tower near the University of South Florida.

News Summary

The St. Petersburg City Council has approved the construction of a 21-story mixed-use apartment tower near the University of South Florida. Set to transform the current site, the tower will feature 213 residential units, commercial space, and a parking garage. With a design aimed at promoting community interaction and enhancing the local streetscape, this development is expected to serve both residents and students in the growing Innovation District.

St. Petersburg City Council Greenlights Tower Near University of South Florida

Exciting news for the St. Petersburg community! The city council just gave the green light for an ambitious new project—an eye-catching 21-story mixed-use apartment tower right at 446 4th Street South. This development is set to transform the current site, which is home to a modest office building and a parking lot currently occupied by the Fresenius Kidney Care American Dialysis Center.

A New Hub for Residents and Students

The upcoming building is more than just a towering structure; it’s designed to serve the needs of the growing Innovation District while catering to the needs of local students and hospital workers. With plans in place for 213 residential units, plus about 2,250 square feet dedicated to commercial space, it’s clear that this project is aimed at creating a vibrant community hub. Additionally, a 230-space parking garage is also part of the plans, ensuring residents have easy parking access right at their doorstep.

All of this is spearheaded by the real estate company Stadler Development, which has committed around $67 million to make this vision a reality. The company plans to purchase the property from Malti Realty LLC, ensuring a smooth transition into development as they aim to break ground by early 2026. The father-son duo of John and Chris Stadler are leading the charge on this exciting venture, promising to bring their wealth of expertise to the table.

A Design That Embraces Community

The proposed building will reach a height of 245 feet and will cover a total area of 318,683 square feet. The architectural focus positions the tower toward the corner of 5th Avenue South and 4th Street South, bringing a modern aesthetic that’s both practical and appealing. The ground floor will feature not only commercial space but also a cozy residential lobby and access to the essential parking garage.

But the story doesn’t end there. Floors 3 through 20 will house the residential units, showcasing outdoor terraces and inviting amenity areas on both the 7th and 21st floors. Who wouldn’t want to unwind and enjoy the stunning views from there? And that’s not all; the project aims to foster a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere with gorgeous landscaping, floor-to-ceiling storefront windows, and ample ≥10-foot sidewalks for strolling locals and visitors alike. Plus, cyclists will find dedicated bicycle parking on-site, promoting greener commuting options.

Transforming the Streetscape

As part of the site’s evolution, there will be some much-anticipated improvements to the streetscape. The existing curb cut along 4th Street South is set to be removed, while the one on 5th Avenue South will be repositioned to enhance safety and accessibility. The project is zoned under the Downtown Center-2 (DC-2) classification, which allows for the utmost density development and promotes the area’s growth—including a proposed floor area ratio (FAR) of 7.0, the maximum allowed in this zoning district.

To help bring this vision to life, Stadler Development has teamed up with an impressive lineup of partners, including Baker Barrios Architects, the civil engineering experts at George F. Young, and the legal minds of Trenam Law. This collaboration promises not only to enhance the architectural beauty of St. Petersburg but also to significantly elevate the quality of life for residents and students alike.

As the city looks forward to what may soon become a landmark of St. Petersburg, excitement builds among residents and students alike for this innovative project that blends modern living with community charm. Watch for more updates as this towering development prepares to reshape the landscape right across from the University of South Florida St. Petersburg.