TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A new entertainment district was announced for downtown Tampa by Strategic Property Partners on Thursday.
The new district will feature:
- A 3,500-seat music and performance venue designed for rising and mid-tier touring artists.
- A 250-room hotel featuring indoor and outdoor amenities.
- 100,000 square feet of retail, dining, and entertainment.
- More than 1,000 parking spaces.
According to Vinik Sports Group, the project is privately financed, supports the broader Water Street Tampa vision, and will create energy around the Benchmark International Arena.
Strategic Property Partners is planning to work with Vinik Sports Group to manage the entertainment venue.
According to a release, the district is proposed for a vacant parcel across from the Benchmark International Arena on Channelside Drive between Morgan Street and Jefferson Street.
“Water Street Tampa was designed to evolve, and this entertainment district is the next step in completing the larger vision,” said Josh Taube, CEO of Strategic Property Partners. “Water Street Tampa today is a dynamic neighborhood with waterfront, public spaces, residences, retail, hotels, and offices all connected through a walkable experience. This project activates the western edge of the neighborhood by adding an entertainment energy through live music and cultural experiences; strengthening WST as a preeminent destination.”
The new venue is expected to offer a right-sized performance space that Tampa does not currently have.
“Fans will see more shows, more often, and with greater variety,” said Steve Griggs, Chief Executive Officer of Vinik Sports Group. “This district will strengthen the entertainment ecosystem surrounding the arena, forging the live entertainment center of Tampa Bay. A venue of this size provides much-needed flexibility for booking more artists and world-class shows to our region.”
The venue is also expected to bring more performers to the downtown area and give fans more opportunities to experience live music, Vinik Sports Group said.
“This Water Street expansion moves Tampa forward as a top entertainment destination,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. “It strengthens tourism and creates new experiences for residents and visitors, all within steps of the Riverwalk and Convention Center.”
The project is expected to extend the Ford Thunder Alley experience across Channelside Drive.
Strategic Property Partners plans to break ground on the project in 2027.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated to correct the number of parking spaces the district will feature.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.wfla.com ’
