One of the most transformative projects in St. Pete got the official go-ahead to make some big changes – in ways that locals are likely to love. The Orange Station development, on Central Avenue in the EDGE District across from Ferg’s, has scrapped plans for luxury condos on the property, and is instead focusing on workforce housing, ground-level retail, expanded office space, and a boutique hotel.

St. Petersburg City Council approved the last of the proposed changes today, making way for the project to move forward. The development has the potential to be truly transformative for the neighborhood, bringing not only much needed parking (at least 400 public spaces) but also adding workforce housing, something that is missing in the area. Additionally, the increase in office space is key, as the downtown area and Central Avenue corridor in St. Pete are severely lacking currently.

Developers had proposed the idea of scrapping the condos in favor of a boutique hotel in early 2023, and this latest iteration of the agreement paves the way for the re-imagined project. Highlights include:

• 42 workforce apartments
• 14,000 square feet of retail space, at minimum
• 125,000 square feet of office space
• A 600 space parking garage
• 400 public parking spaces, at minimum

The Orange Station development is replacing the former St. Petersburg police station, and will include a great deal of public amenities on the ground level. Renderings showcase walk-up bars and cafes, as well as shops and a restaurant, adding even more to the bustling nightlife of the EDGE District.

Notably, Orange Station will add to the Burg’s vibrant art scene with a new installation by Ya La’ford paying tribute to “The Courageous 12,” the 12 Black St. Petersburg police officers who successfully sued the city in the 1960s to gain the same rights as their white counterparts.

Orange Station is expected to become a hub of activity in the EDGE District. The project is being developed by a joint venture of local companies, including J Square Developers, DDA Development, Place Architecture, and Backstreets Capital, LLC. Renderings below courtesy of DDA Development.

Stay tuned to I Love the Burg for more info.