ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg city officials met with potential developers Wednesday as talks over the redevelopment of 86 acres of land surrounding Tropicana Field and the city's Historic Gas Plant District continue.
City officials discussed the needs of the city, the history of the area and goals for potential projects based on community conversations. Over the next two months, St. Pete will solicit proposals from developers.
"I really think the turnout to this really spoke to the developer's interest in this site," Brian Caper, the director of economic and workforce development for St. Pete, said. "We had over 40 people on Zoom as well. I think that's really indicative of the community's interest in this project. I hope that speaks to the number of responses we expect to receive on Nov. 18."
The plans, months in the making, started from scratch this summer when St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch scrapped existing proposals and opted to start with new ideas, and community input and to address different needs that arose with the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We understand this is going to drive the city's economy for the next 50 to 100 years, so it's really important we get it right," Caper said. "I think Mayor Welch understands that and values that. That was part of the reason to cancel the previous process that started after re-engaging with the community. Understanding that things change, community priorities have evolved over the last few years. So we want to make sure we have an RFP that is responsive to what the community is looking for. And that we're receiving proposals that are responsive to that as well."
The city is hoping to build a new stadium to replace Tropicana Field in hopes of keeping the Tampa Bay Rays in St. Pete. If that doesn't happen, development plans will be adjusted, or an opportunity for a new RFP will be presented for the 17.3 acres set aside for a new stadium, Caper explained.
A goal in the development plans is to honor the historic Gas Plant District, a vibrant African-American community that was razed 40 years ago when the Trop was built.
"It helps significantly to know what's important to the city and community," Kevin Johnson, a developer, said. "If we could not do that and make good to those guidelines and principles, we should pack up and go home."
Developers are given 23 guiding principles of development to follow for how the land is used in a developer's plans. Two weeks ago, the city released its "Request for Proposals" opening the project for bids from developers.
After hearing from thousands during community talks, the RFP calls for "intentional equity," affordable housing, spaces for small businesses and education, as well as open public gatherings and green spaces.
Developers have until Nov. 18 to submit proposals. Welch is expected to select a preferred developer by the end of 2022. By the fall of 2023, the St. Pete City Council will vote on a development agreement.