ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – The St. Petersburg City Council has given the green light to the Historic Gas Plant District Redevelopment, a $6.5 billion project that includes a new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays and significant community benefits.
The redevelopment plan aims to revitalize the area and fulfill promises made to the community decades ago.
“Today is a historic day in St. Petersburg. After 40 years and many promises, tonight’s vote paves the way for the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District,” said Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. “Although our partners at Pinellas County still must vote to fund their portion of the new stadium, tonight’s decision by St. Petersburg CIty Council marks a huge step forward to making this deal become a reality. This is a day to celebrate the community, staff, Tampa Bay Rays, Hines Development, and partners that have played such an integral part in this process. Thank you for your dedication and participation – we would not have gotten here without you.”
Read: Treasure Island’s Proposed FY25 Budget Prioritizes Stability And Long-Term Projects
The City Council approved the project in a 5-3 vote, marking a major milestone in the redevelopment process. The project still requires approval from the Pinellas County Commission, which is expected to vote in the coming weeks.
Construction firm Skanska has been chosen to oversee the project, including the new stadium and other developments.
The project includes a $50 million commitment to equity initiatives in South St. Petersburg, focusing on affordable housing, employment, education, and minority-owned business support.
“What a day for St. Petersburg! I am thrilled to celebrate this significant milestone in the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District,” said St. Petersburg City Council Chair Deborah Figgs-Sanders. “Thank you to my City Council colleagues for respecting the process and diligently reviewing these agreements. Thank you to the Community Benefits Advisory Council for their thorough review and meaningful input. Thank you to our community for showing up and engaging in this process with us. I am proud of what we have all accomplished together and the history we’ve made today.”
The redevelopment is expected to be the largest development project in Tampa Bay history, generating significant economic growth and job creation.
Read: High-Speed Car Crash In St. Petersburg Leaves One Dead, Investigation Ongoing
Construction is set to begin in 2025, with the first phase of development and the new stadium opening in late 2027/early 2028.
Tampa Bay Rays and Hines both released a statement on the development Thursday.
“Thursday’s St. Petersburg City Council approvals of the Historic Gas Plant District Development and a new ballpark for the Rays is a significant milestone for our city, Pinellas County and the entire Tampa Bay region — and for the Rays and our fans,” said Tampa Bay Rays Principal Owner Stuart Sternberg. “We are incredibly grateful to Mayor Ken Welch for his leadership, vision and commitment. We thank the city staff for all of their hard work and attention to detail. And we particularly thank the City Council members for their time, thoughtful consideration and support of this agreement. We look forward to working with our Pinellas County partners on the next and final step in the process to secure the future of the Rays for generations to come.”
“Hines, in partnership with the Tampa Bay Rays, is grateful for St. Petersburg City Council’s support of this transformative, city-shaping project,” said Hines Senior Managing Director Michael Harrison. “We look forward to the next step with Pinellas County. Our vision is to create a dynamic destination and community hub for all in St. Petersburg that embodies true placemaking and enhances the human experience. We remain committed to the descendants of the Historic Gas Plant District, aiming to develop an inclusive community that fosters opportunities for local businesses, well-paying jobs, and sustainable growth for all.”
Help support the Tampa Free Press by making any small donation by clicking here.
Android Users, Click To Download The Tampa Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Sign up for our free newsletter.