Economic Development in Our Most Challenged Areas

Our Goal: "Transform East Tampa into a community of vibrant residential, business, recreational, social and cultural life through the implementation of a strategic economic development model, focused on neighborhood assets that can be replicated in other challenged areas within the City of Tampa."

In some parts of the city, years of decline, neglect and lack of investment have created barriers to new development. This Strategic Focus Area strives to overcome these barriers by focusing a wide range of resources to generate real economic development. If successful, this urban revitalization effort could emerge as a national model. East Tampa, the focus of this initial effort, has a large residential core, easy access to three interstates, new business and housing developments, and is located in proximity to downtown Tampa and the waterfront.

In FY04, the city created the East Tampa Development Division to focus exclusively on the economic and civic revitalization of the area. Also in FY04, the city launched an aggressive campaign, Operation Commitment, to root out crime, prostitution, drugs and code violations. The effort demonstrated the city’s commitment to East Tampa and set the stage for continued revitalization efforts.

Building upon these initial efforts, the city will direct investments in East Tampa to support public safety, private investment and community revitalization. Community policing will continue to play a central role in making East Tampa safe and secure. The construction of the new Tampa Police Department District III Station is underway, and will enhance public safety in the area. A Tax Increment Financing District was created to reinvest tax dollars in the area focusing on needed infrastructure improvements including sidewalks, lighting and community facilities. 22nd Street, 29th Street and 34th Street have been targeted for specific improvement and redevelopment activities. A partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation will be explored wherever possible to achieve greater overall results.

A community involved strategic action plan will provide strategies for long-term economic development concentrating on three key initiatives:

1. Making strategic public investment (e.g., police headquarters, parks, roads, etc.)
2. promoting policies and land-use regulations that foster balanced residential and commercial growth
3. Developing incentives that will leverage quality development

These strategies will help ensure economic development and growth while preserving the inherent residential character of the neighborhood and enhancing the quality of life for the residents of East Tampa.