News Summary
A new 13-story mixed-use hotel and apartment building has been approved for the Grand Central District in St. Petersburg, with plans for 60 hotel rooms and 60 apartments. Set to be located at 1663 1st Avenue South, the $22 million project aims to foster community living with a focus on affordable housing. Parking for hotel guests and bike spots for residents enhance the convenience, while shared amenities promise a vibrant lifestyle for future occupants. Construction is expected to begin by the end of 2025.
Exciting New Development on the Horizon for St. Pete!
Residents of St. Petersburg, get ready for some exciting news! The Grand Central District is about to get a gorgeous new addition, as plans for a stunning 13-story mixed-use hotel and apartment building have just been approved. That’s right! A combined total of 60 apartments and 60 hotel rooms is on the way, thanks to a unanimous nod from the St. Petersburg Development Review Commission.
A Glimpse at the Future
The new building is set to be erected at 1663 1st Avenue South, which is currently occupied by a commercial building that once housed the Sunshine Kitty Catfe and Dolman Law Group. The project is a collaborative effort by Tampa-based BendinRoad Development and Landings Real Estate Group, and it comes with a hefty price tag of $22 million. Talk about a significant investment in local real estate!
A Shift in Vision
This new design represents a major transformation from an earlier proposal that aimed for an 8-story building with 97 apartment units, which was given the green light back in 2023. Now, developers have shifted gears to create a structure that promises a bustling mix of daily living and hospitality. Rather than catering to short-term stays, developers have decided on a one-year minimum lease term for the apartments, responding directly to community concerns about the impact of vacation rentals.
Parking & Amenities Galore!
Now, let’s talk about parking. No vehicular parking is needed for the 60 apartments since city regulations let residential units under 750 square feet slide on parking requirements. However, there will be 12 parking spots for hotel guests, plus ample bike parking available for residents and hotel employees. It looks like future residents and visitors are going to enjoy some serious conveniences.
Features to Help You Live Well
The ground floor isn’t just a pretty face; it will be packed with shared amenities to enhance the living experience. Expect a stylish lobby, a cozy club room, and necessary back-of-house facilities. As you ascend through floors two to five, you’ll find the majority of the hotel rooms—54 in total. The sixth floor is where you’ll find a mix of six hotel rooms and six apartments. Finally, floors seven through twelve are reserved for a grand total of 54 apartments, bringing life to this multifaceted project.
On Top of the World
But wait, there’s more! The 13th floor is set to be a cherry on top, featuring both indoor and outdoor amenities, including co-working spaces, a fitness area, and even a sparkling pool. Just imagine unwinding after a long day or catching up on work with gorgeous views of St. Pete!
Working Towards Affordable Housing
This ambitious project is taking place in the Downtown Center-2 (DC-2) zoning district, allowing for high-density multi-family and hotel development, with a maximum height of 150 feet. Developers are also on board with supporting the community, contributing 1% of total construction costs—approximately $220,000—to the Housing Capital Improvements Project fund, all aimed at helping with affordable housing initiatives. What a win-win!
Coming Soon!
The groundbreaking for this exciting new venture is expected to take place by the end of 2025. So, whether you’re a resident hoping for new neighbors, a visitor eager to explore St. Pete, or simply someone who enjoys keeping up with local developments, this new project is sure to spark some interest. Stay tuned for what is sure to be a fabulous addition to downtown St. Petersburg!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Community Tensions Rise Over Euclid Methodist Church in St. Pete
St. Petersburg City Council’s Big Decision: Historic Church’s Future Uncertain
New Office Opens and Homebuyer Assistance Program in Palm Beach Gardens
New Residential Developments Planned for South Miami-Dade
St. Petersburg’s Cycling Community: A Growing Movement
Major Developments Transforming Princeton in South Miami-Dade
Tehran Reveals New Ballistic Missile ‘Etemad’
University of South Florida St. Petersburg to Address Human Trafficking
University Student Launches Ridely, New Ride-Sharing App
St. Petersburg Community Workshops and Leadership Appointments
Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: Rethinking Urban Development
- I Love the Burg: St. Pete Waterfront Master Plan
- St. Pete Catalyst: Planning for Innovation Districts
- St. Peterising: Warehouse Arts District Upzoning Approved
- Google Search: St. Petersburg development news
