An artist's rendition of the Azalea Gateway project set to enhance affordable housing in St. Petersburg.
St. Petersburg has approved $5.25 million in funding for the Azalea Gateway apartment community, aiming to add 1,000 apartment units, with 300 designated as affordable. This project, located near Azalea Park, will maintain affordable units for 50 years and is expected to bring significant benefits to the local community. The initial phase will cost approximately $110 million and includes various amenities. As a crucial step in addressing housing needs, local officials are seeking additional funding to move forward.
St. Petersburg is about to see some big changes with the recent approval of $5.25 million in funding aimed at kickstarting the Azalea Gateway apartment community. This innovative project is set to bring a whopping 1,000 apartment units to the neighborhood, making it a significant step forward in addressing the city’s housing needs.
Located at 1501 72nd Street North, just a stone’s throw away from Azalea Park, the Azalea Gateway is not just another apartment complex—it’s visionary! Out of the total units, 300 will be affordable, ensuring that everyone can find a place to call home. The first phase alone will feature 340 apartments, with a focus on helping families by offering units reserved for those earning up to 80% and 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
What makes this project even more notable is that the affordable units must remain accessible for an impressive 50 years. That’s a rare commitment in today’s real estate climate! The first phase is anticipated to cost around $110 million, a considerable investment in the community’s future.
Of course, there’s a bit more left to navigate before work begins. The county’s funding is tied to the upcoming approval from the St. Petersburg City Council, who will be voting on an additional $6 million for this project in February. Fingers crossed that everything goes smoothly, as this could mark a turning point in local housing development!
The overall development is set to unfold in three phases, each bringing its unique flair and benefits. In addition to the spacious apartments, residents can look forward to a wealth of amenities such as a clubhouse, fitness center, yoga room, and even a pet spa. It’s almost like a little community retreat right at home!
The first phase will feature some striking architecture, including two U-shaped buildings and one L-shaped building. Residents can also expect 1,800 parking spaces throughout the entire community, making it convenient for those with vehicles.
Interestingly, the land wasn’t always intended for a housing project. Previously owned by defense contractor Raytheon, the site had a less-than-ideal history marked by soil contamination from manufacturing operations that date back to the 1950s. Luckily, groundwater remediation efforts have been underway since 2014, helping to clean the area and prepare it for this exciting development.
The Azalea Gateway project also took significant reshaping over time. Initial plans for a sports complex and recreational lagoon were discarded due to community pushback and regulatory challenges. Now, it seems the focus is firmly on creating a vibrant neighborhood that meets local housing demands.
As one of the most substantial public-private housing initiatives in St. Petersburg’s history, the Azalea Gateway looks promising for those in need of affordable living spaces. The development team, which includes reputable firms like ARC3 Architecture and Stantec, is committed to seeing this project through, with the entire undertaking expected to wrap up by 2030. Each phase is projected to take about two years to complete, so there’s a lot to look forward to in the coming years!
Overall, the Azalea Gateway holds the potential to transform St. Petersburg significantly, bringing new life and opportunities to the community. As the city prepares for this change, many are hopeful that these apartments will not only provide a roof over heads but also nurture a thriving community spirit!
Florida Community Grants Enhance Livability for Residents
Discover Meaningful Volunteer Opportunities in Tampa Bay
St. Petersburg Expands Greenspace with $2.9 Million Purchase
St. Petersburg Launches Healthy Homes Initiative
New 21-Story Apartment Tower Planned for St. Petersburg
Affordable Housing Project Launched in Miami
Sky Town Development Greenlit in St. Petersburg
Sky Town Development Approved for St. Petersburg
HSBC Launches CommunityWorks Grant for Homebuyers in Miami
New Downtown Redevelopment Opportunity in St. Petersburg
News Summary Residents along the Gulf Coast, particularly in Florida and Louisiana, are bracing for…
News Summary A unique historic inn located in St. Petersburg's Old Northeast neighborhood has hit…
News Summary Two boys missing for four months in St. Petersburg, Bradley Neal, 12, and…
News Summary St. Petersburg is set for an exciting week of events from February 5th…
News Summary The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg has sold 4.5 acres of land for…
News Summary St. Petersburg's Grand Central District is set for exciting changes with the sale…