On August 27, Chris Ballestra, Managing Director of the City Development Administration, presented key considerations and conceptual renderings for the redevelopment of the waterfront. The areas under discussion include The Center for the Arts, the marina, Albert Whitted Airport, and the Innovation District. A primary issue is the lack of a master plan for much of the waterfront.

For example, the Center for the Arts, which extends from 1st Ave S. to 5th Ave S. (Dali Blvd.), includes key structures such as Al Lang Stadium, the Dali Museum, Mahaffey Theater, and the adjacent parking structure. These buildings were developed independently, without a cohesive master plan, leading to a lack of coordinated design across the waterfront. Ballestra illustrated how a master plan could enhance the Center for the Arts, optimizing the use of available space.

Important note: all renderings only serve as conceptual examples of what is possible.

Renderings illustrate a master planned waterfront

In earlier phases of redevelopment planning, the City Development Administration partnered with ARC 3 Architects to reimagine the Center for the Arts as part of a larger master plan. This plan proposes relocating the parking structure behind the Mahaffey Theater, which would open up views of the waterfront. In place of the old parking structure, a large, flexible-use green space is envisioned. The new structure could include office and restaurant spaces, offering access along the waterfront corridor.

Chris Ballestra noted that the flexible-use green space would also benefit the annual Grand Prix, held over a weekend in March. The Grand Prix generates an estimated $60 million in economic impact for local businesses during those days.

City considers the needs of key stakeholders

The city is considering and incorporating key stakeholders, Mahaffey Theater, Dali Museum, Al Lang Stadium—even the Grand Prix. “We want to coalesce with key stakeholders in the city…and see what makes sense long term,” says Ballestra.

Al Lang Stadium, for example, is currently underutilized, hosting only a limited number of events and activities. To maximize its potential, the city is considering extending the land to Beach Drive to improve connectivity. Meanwhile, the Dali Museum is looking to expand its footprint, and the city is actively addressing the museum’s needs.

However, the unique needs of all stakeholders must be considered. “To be fair,” Ballestra noted, “the biggest stakeholders in the city are the citizens of St. Pete.” The redesign of the Center for the Arts is still in its early stages and has not yet been discussed with the public.

Some developments have already begun

Several waterfront developments are either about to begin or are in the later stages of approval.

Albert Whitted Airport will soon undergo redevelopment to make the airport and its grounds more accessible to everyone, not just airplane owners. This effort aligns with the City Development Administration’s long-term vision of connecting the entire waterfront, extending as far north as the Vinoy and as far south as Lassing Park in the future.

In late October or early November 2024, the City Council will receive a proposal to redevelop the municipal marina. The proposal outlines a complete overhaul of the marina, as much of its infrastructure has reached the end of its service life. Some docks were built in 1964, with additional ones constructed in 1977. Safe Harbor Marinas has been tentatively selected to handle the marina’s redevelopment, contingent on approval in a referendum.