Sugar Hill Community Partners Seeking Another Shot at Redeveloping Tropicana Field
Retired NBA star and former Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson, representing JMA Ventures, is eager for Sugar Hill Community Partners to have another opportunity to redevelop the Tropicana Field land in St. Petersburg. Despite being finalists in the past, they hope to be considered once more.
Previous Attempts
Under former Mayor Rick Kriseman and current Mayor Ken Welch, Sugar Hill competed to develop the site but was ultimately not chosen. Midtown Development was picked during Kriseman’s term, and the bid was lost to the Tampa Bay Rays and Hines in January 2023 for the Historic Gas Plant District project.
Expired Deal and Future Plans
The Rays/Hines deal to build a stadium and surrounding facilities expired, leading Welch to consider redeveloping the Gas Plant without a baseball stadium. While specifics are uncertain, Welch emphasizes the importance of affordable housing and job opportunities in any new development.
Potential Revival of Plans
Sugar Hill is ready to revisit their previous proposals, with Johnson stating their willingness to bring back their diverse and community-focused team for the project.
Current Developments
JMA Ventures is set to begin work on Westcourt Orlando, a large-scale project in downtown Orlando, showcasing their capabilities and experience in similar ventures.
Conclusion
While the situation evolves, Sugar Hill Community Partners remain hopeful for another opportunity to contribute to the redevelopment of Tropicana Field.
FAQs
1. Will the development include a baseball stadium?
Not likely, as the city aims to move forward without the Rays unless ownership changes.
2. What are the key focuses for the new development?
Affordable housing and job opportunities are priorities for the city and potential developers.
