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St. Petersburg Steps Up for Affordable Housing Development

A proposed vision for affordable housing in St. Petersburg blending modern living with cultural heritage.

News Summary

St. Petersburg is undertaking an ambitious project to convert the historic Deuces landmark into affordable housing. With three proposals on the table, city officials aim to honor the rich cultural heritage while addressing the pressing need for equitable housing solutions. The proposals include a four-story building with condominiums, a plan prioritizing veterans, and an ambitious development featuring numerous units targeting low-income residents, all highlighting commitment to inclusivity and community enhancement.

St. Petersburg Takes a Bold Step Towards Affordable Housing

In the vibrant city of St. Petersburg, exciting changes are brewing at a site that holds a rich cultural past. The city has received not one, but three proposals aimed at transforming the former Deuces cultural landmark into much-needed affordable housing. This engaging project is set against a backdrop of history that many in the community hold close to their hearts.

A Look Back in Time

The property in question is located at 951 22nd St. S., and it spans a modest 0.68 acres. For many years, this site was a bustling hub for several African American-owned businesses, especially during the challenging times of the Jim Crow era. One of the standout establishments on the property was the Royal Hotel, which served as a sanctuary for Black professional baseball players and performers who were frequenters of the nearby Manhattan Casino.

Hurricane Woes and City Ownership

Fast forward to September 2017, when Hurricane Irma wreaked havoc by destroying the historical Merriwether Building, which had stood for nearly a century. Fast forward again to 2023, when the city snatched up the now-vacant property from previous owner Elihu Brayboy for the bargain price of just $100. This acquisition opens the door for a new chapter—one that city officials are passionate about driving forward in the right way.

Community Heritage Meets Modern Needs

In August, city officials put out a call for redevelopment proposals. They emphasized a desire to honor the community’s rich heritage while also fostering equitable partnerships among small, minority, and women-owned businesses. To that end, Mayor Ken Welch expressed excitement over the prospect of hearing from developers who share this vision of inclusivity.

Exciting Proposals on the Table

The first proposal on the table is from Elihu Brayboy’s very own nonprofit, Making Opportunities Materialize Inc. (MOM). Their plan involves crafting a lovely four-story building known as the Tall Cotton Initiative. This development would feature 18 condominium units and come complete with 3,000 square feet of retail space, which will house greatly-needed amenities like a laundromat and a fresh produce store. Overall, the total project cost is estimated at $6.5 million. The condos will range in size from 250 to 800 square feet, with prices between $180,000 and $320,000, thus keeping affordability front and center.

The second contender is a proposal from Alexander Goshen along with Goode Van Slyke Architecture. Their multi-faceted plan is projected to cost about $9.36 million and includes 26 residential units. This proposal seeks to prioritize veterans and ensure that at least 10 apartments are set aside for individuals earning up to 80% of the area median income, which stands at a modest $35,000—well below the city-wide average of $61,000.

Last but not least, the third proposal by Green Mills Group presents an ambitious plan named Heritage Grove. Valued at around $20 million, this development includes a whopping 54 units targeted at residents earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income. Their proposal promises to collaborate closely with the local St. Pete Greenhouse to ensure that minority business owners populate retail spaces, featuring an array of community-centered facilities such as a clubhouse and a game room.

Preserving History While Providing Homes

Furthermore, Green Mills Group is committed to incorporating cultural elements into the design by commissioning local artists to create murals that pay homage to African American heritage. They offer the city a 99-year ground lease priced at $885,000 and will return 24% of residual revenue to the city to reinvest in local initiatives.

Looking to the Future

With these proposals on the table, St. Petersburg stands on the brink of a transformation that not only promises to address the crucial need for affordable housing but also aims to preserve a cherished heritage. As the community eagerly anticipates the staff recommendations for a developer, it’s clear that the direction is all about inclusivity and honoring the past as they build for the future.