The entire region benefits from St. Petersburg’s Historic Gas Plant development | Column

As mayors of Tampa Bay’s three largest cities, we are united in our goals and recognize that the success of our respective cities is intertwined with the success of the entire Tampa Bay region. We value our professional sports teams as they bring us together, and we strive for economic development that attracts new employers and supports local businesses. We are committed to creating a talented workforce and fostering job opportunities that contribute to the growth of our cities. Additionally, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for our residents by championing regional opportunities for sports, entertainment and recreation.

That is why we fully support the Historic Gas Plant District Development plan proposed by the Tampa Bay Rays and their global development partner, Hines, for downtown St. Petersburg. This visionary proposal not only pays homage to the past but also prepares for the future. Its economic impact will have a positive ripple effect throughout the entire Tampa Bay region, making it a unique gathering place for all residents to enjoy.

It is crucial for the success of our metropolitan area that we retain our Major League Baseball franchise. Our region’s love affair with baseball dates back over a century, and our community has worked tirelessly to bring a team to Tampa Bay. Investment in publicly owned facilities, such as Tropicana Field, Raymond James Stadium, Amalie Arena and BayCare Ballpark, is critical. They not only serve as homes for professional sports teams, but also host various community and entertainment events that enrich the lives of Tampa Bay residents. These facilities attract visitors to our communities and provide an economic boost to the entire region.

Apart from the significant economic impact, our professional sports teams hold intangible value for Tampa Bay. The recent successes of the Lightning, Bucs and Rays have garnered national attention and united our diverse communities in shared experiences. Being part of the select group of metro regions with Major League Baseball franchises is essential for tourism and economic development in Tampa Bay.

The Historic Gas Plant District Development plan offers much more than just a ballpark. It is a public-private partnership with the Rays and Hines, both of whom are committed community partners. With over $6 billion in private investment, this development will have a lasting economic impact for future generations. The plan envisions green spaces, a rejuvenated Booker Creek, a concert venue, a new Woodson African American Museum and much-needed office/medical space. It also includes a $500 million commitment to support small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering their growth and scalability. The development aims to maintain the distinctive identities of our communities, further strengthening the mix that makes Tampa Bay unique.

The proposal also emphasizes the importance of workforce development. It invests in education and job training programs, internship opportunities, mentoring and apprenticeship programs, and training for small businesses and minority-owned and women-owned businesses. The construction of the ballpark and the Historic Gas Plant District Development is expected to create thousands of jobs over the next 20 years, benefiting communities across the region.

We are enthusiastic about the Rays-Hines Historic Gas Plant District Development proposal, as it aligns with our shared goals. It will ensure that Tampa Bay retains its MLB franchise and presence in major media markets. The development will boost our regional economy, attract new employers and provide opportunities for locally owned businesses. It will also create a premium large-seating capacity venue for national and international events, concerts and conventions. Most importantly, it will generate thousands of quality jobs that are essential for the well-being of our families and communities. This proposal is significant for the overall improvement of the quality of life across all of Tampa Bay, and we wholeheartedly support it.

Kenneth T. Welch is mayor of St. Petersburg, Jane Castor is mayor of Tampa, and Bruce Rector is mayor of Clearwater.