St. Petersburg’s ‘Razed’ Documentary Highlights Community Displacement

A heartfelt representation of the Gas Plant district, showcasing its strong community ties.

News Summary

The upcoming documentary ‘Razed’ delves into the heartfelt stories of the Gas Plant district, a vibrant African American community displaced by urban renewal efforts in the 1980s. Through interviews with former residents, the film explores themes of loss, resilience, and community bonds. Set to premiere on February 22, 2025, the documentary aims to ignite discussions about equitable urban development and honor the voices of those affected by development decisions.

St. Petersburg’s “Razed” Documentary Tells a Heartfelt Story of Community Displacement

St. Petersburg is gearing up for an emotional experience as a new documentary titled “Razed” prepares to hit the screens. This film dives deep into the poignant tale of the Gas Plant district, a once vibrant, predominantly African American community that faced upheaval in the 1980s.

The Lost Neighborhood

The Gas Plant district wasn’t just any neighborhood. Spanning an impressive 85 acres, it was home to families, businesses, schools, and churches. However, dreams turned sour as the area was demolished via eminent domain, sold to the public under the pretense of urban renewal that promised affordable housing and job opportunities—none of which ever came to fruition.

Fast forward to the 1980s, and St. Petersburg’s downtown was described as a ghost town. To breathe new life into the area, officials approved plans for a covered stadium with hopes of attracting visitors and a major league baseball team. Sadly, while the stadium was built, it took a staggering 13 years for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays to finally set foot in the city.

Remembering Together

“Razed” showcases heartwarming interviews with over a dozen former residents of the Gas Plant district—many who lived there during their childhoods or young adulthood. Despite acknowledging some less-than-ideal conditions, like a notable smell of gas, interviewees fondly remember a close-knit, friendly community. Their stories reveal a world of camaraderie, resilience, and love that thrived even amid challenges.

A Mission Close to the Heart

The film is spearheaded by a passionate team, featuring producer and co-director Tara Segall, who feels a deep sense of responsibility to share these stories authentically. Many former residents had never been asked about their experiences, making this documentary an important step in recognizing their voices.

Premiere Details

Mark your calendars! “Razed” is set to premiere on February 22, 2025, at the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg’s Center for Health Equity. In a short span, all 400 free tickets have already been claimed, showcasing the community’s eagerness to relive and reflect on these shared histories. Additional screenings are also in the works due to high demand.

The Spark of Inspiration

The idea for “Razed” ignited during a reunion event in December 2021 for former Gas Plant residents. Local luminary Gwendolyn Reese, president of the African American Heritage Association of St. Petersburg, was pivotal in bringing this project to life. The documentary has been self-funded by Roundhouse Creative, with backing from the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, emphasizing the community’s commitment to this project.

A Shift in Perspective

The production team invested three transformative years crafting “Razed.” Segall has noted that the process shifted their understanding of the historical narrative of St. Petersburg, stressing its importance in not just African American history but the larger context of regional history.

A Call for Conversations

The film aims to spark essential discussions about community displacement and the significant need for equitable urban development. As the future of the former Gas Plant site and Tropicana Field remains uncertain, “Razed” seeks to inspire a dialogue that respects cultural integrity and honors the voices of those affected by development decisions.

In essence, this documentary is more than just a film; it’s a heartfelt tribute to a community, a reminder of what was lost, and a call for a more just urban future. The story told in “Razed” is one of resilience, memory, and the spirit of a community that deserves to be remembered.