Tesla is nearing completion of its huge expansion into Lealman. The sprawling electric car dealership has just about completed construction, with employees already moving around inside the gleaming building at 4601 34th Street North. While no official grand opening has been set, all appearances are that the Tesla dealership is weeks away from opening to the public.

Tesla received initial approval early last year to convert the old Kanes Liquidation Center on 34th Street North in St. Pete into a state-of-the-art dealership and regional repair facility, and construction began after Delray Beach, FL-based Truett Realty Group (TRG) officially closed on the property last May. The 100,000-square-foot facility will bring more than 50 high paying jobs to the area. On average, Tesla technicians make upwards of $27.65 per hour in the U.S. 

TRG said it reconfigured the building’s footprint to make way for a 52,000 square foot sales, service and delivery operation. The remaining enclosed space will be utilized for indoor vehicular storage and is expected to accommodate 170 vehicles. This is TRG’s fourth Tesla redevelopment project since 2021.

TRG Principal Rob Truett said, “We’re thrilled to execute on an adaptive reuse project that will transform a building originally developed as a distribution center into a state-of-the-art Tesla facility. Our redevelopment projects are extremely rewarding as they provide a cost-efficient way to enter markets with high barriers to entry while promoting a sustainable environment.” 

Tesla revitalizing Lealman with high paying jobs

Tesla’s showroom will measure 3,000 square feet, according to public records. Upwards of 40,000 square feet will be allocated for a Tesla repair center. Nearly half of the center will be dedicated for storing vehicles that have been ordered. 

This is a huge get for the Lealman area. A swath of high paying jobs, and new interest in the area could spur a wave of economic development. The company’s move to Lealman does align with the initiative of the Community Redevelopment Area. Improvements to the building, including a fresh coat of paint, and structural maintenance to the former Kane’s Liquidation Center, could spawn reinvestment in Lealman. 

As part of the continued growth in the area, the Kane’s Liquidation Center will move across the street to 4501 34th Street North behind the main Kane’s Furniture store located at the same address.

“The importance of this deal for Lealman cannot be understated”, said Pinellas County Commissioner Charlie Justice. “Tesla recognizes what we’ve been saying… Lealman is on the rise. And Lealman is ready to welcome you and your business too.”