Seaport Channelside

meh...

that should be real alluring to live in a place where you look out the window at the side of an expressway. I'm astonished that the project wasn't designed to be a tower above a pedestal with parking, retail and amenities.

I wonder how they are going to rent the units by the Crosstown. I would think that those are going to be a hard sell, but then again, they might not have a building butted up against the Crosstown.

Of course there will be projects along the crosstown. Developers want to sqeeze every penny out of their projects, and that means squishing a building into every square inch of their land. The Suburbs are the only place where green space is financially feasable.

Unless they plan to build a park of course ^^

Well, we still don't know what the whole project will look like, so we can't really guess what they will do. Maybe a park or a garage for parking or they'll just have apartment there, but all of this is a guess at the moment, so don't let your hopes up yet. Maybe it is time to email someone again! :banana:

P.S.: My email for the TeleConference project has not been returned, so they must have not read it yet or they are not willing to give out a render yet. I can wait another month for a render though.

Guys, there was a rendering in either the Times or Tribune the day after the meeting.
I no longer have the papers but maybe someone has access to the pics?

Btw, both buildings had a similiar design to the Signature project in St Pete.

I'll see if I can find out something.

Hey Jasonhouse, if I start a new Channelside thread will that be okay?

This is a pretty good aerial shot of North Channelside recently posted on the Grand Central developer website (www.notthesuburbs.com) . It shows the topped out west building, the almost-completed east building, Ventana, and the site for Seaport Channelside.

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t129/tampaguy75/develop_0107_1.jpg

^^^ Somebody refresh my memory...what are they clearing for just North on that picture. Is that Seaboard Square?

Seaport Channelside http://seaportchannelside.com/

Outstanding! The density on those three blocks is incredible. I know part of it is parking, but it's actually starting to look like a real city over there. Those scruffy looking lots to the south really contrast. Are there any projects planned or proposed for those blocks?

Yes. Those "scruffy looking lots to the south" is where the 'heart' of Channelside begins.

Right to the south of the West Building (the one not yet painted) is a proposed condo project called The Slade.

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t129/tampaguy75/slade2.jpg


Right to the south of the East Building (the red, white, and yellow building) a project called Finergy has been proposed.

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t129/tampaguy75/channrend.jpg

This is a pretty good aerial shot of North Channelside recently posted on the Grand Central developer website (www.notthesuburbs.com) . It shows the topped out west building, the almost-completed east building, Ventana, and the site for Seaport Channelside.

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t129/tampaguy75/develop_0107_1.jpg


I believe that the Tampa International Technology Center Site is also shown in this picture, just northeast of Ventana where the shipyard is.

I really like this shot, too....

http://www.grandcentralatkennedy.com/project_status/images/develop_0107_4.JPG

The overview...

From that vantage point Skypoint really adds some good height to the right side of the DT core..
Can't wait for Trump -Venu-12 Arts Hotel-Element to grace that picture..

Pulled this off Flickr -- taken last week. Towers at Channelside with grand central looming in the background. Picture was taken (evidently) from Harbor Island

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/165/369471374_8a6c3b6dc8_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/125/362100210_6d468b33b0_b.jpg

Another picture shamelessly hogged from flickr.

Ok, so looking at this, can someone use paint to mark all sites with proposed construction? This is a great overview that could be posted in the front of the thread. It's not all of Channelside, but it's a look nonetheless.

^^^ Both pics are really nice. The first pic has me scratching my head though, in regards to Blu....has anybody heard about Blu lately? I haven't been down there in awhile. Have they done any clearing or anything for it? I think Blu will be a major compliment to the Towers of Channelside.

Last thing I heard Dave was that Blu was not going to happen in it's previous incarnation (the dual towers) because of traffic concerns for residents on Harbour Island. The location and the size of the project kept it from getting approved.

I don't know what's the deal now but I've written the project off for a while. And with the real estate market cool in Florida, the developer is probably in no rush to get the project up and running again.

I rember reading that they canned the grocery store part of it, but I haven't heard anything since. I'm with you though, it probably won't happen.

That entire intersection was going to be mamoth from 2004/05 proposals. Pinnacle Place/O2, Downtown Channelside (aka Blu) and Towers of Channelside. I was dubbing the district Twin Towerside (because these projects went with Grand Central at Kennedy -- twin buildings, The Ventana -- twin wings, etc.

Something will likely go on the site, so I'm not oozing with doubt like Trump Tower Tampa (I'll let that sleeping dog lie) but I think they will sit on the property until the time is right...

Byrd Corp, the guys behind Blu, addressed the issue of the Harbour Island traffic and also dropped the grocery store. But I agree with you guys; ^^ I don't think anything is going to happen there for a while.

Seems like there are a lot of other developers in the area (Sembler, Novare, Mercury, etc.) that are a lot more motivated and/or have the means to move forward with their projects.

With Grand Central, Ventana, and the Place all in different phases of nearing completion, the area is really going to undergo a mini population explosion this summer. Wonder how long it's going to take to see it 'jump' across Meridian.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/125/362100210_6d468b33b0_b.jpg

Another picture shamelessly hogged from flickr.

Ok, so looking at this, can someone use paint to mark all sites with proposed construction? This is a great overview that could be posted in the front of the thread. It's not all of Channelside, but it's a look nonetheless.

Was that taken from the new Embassy Suites downtown?

Anyway - that part of downtown, from that vantage point, looks like an absolute wasteland. It's like a desert of parking lots and weeds. There should be a lot more development proposed in this area... or at least build a park or something there. It's looks horrible, shameful, and detracts from what would be a good shot of the upcoming developments in Channelside.

Well, most of Channelside I believe have been proposed of a project, so it shouldn't been long until we more cranes, but will have to wait for the market for awhile. I do wish we see a leap over the Expressway with proposals. The only thing I think that is proposed was the Tampa Towers, but that was a pitch that couldn't get a home wrong at this moment.

There will likely be a smattering of cranes - nothing too crazy for a while

BTW - they a driving many piles as Seaport

As for Blu - if I had that lot, I would be in no hurry at all. That lot will always be able to sell condos

^I still think that lot should be used to expand the Shops in time, and have a landmark tower on it that combines office and hotel space in a single tower.

I think that that would be a great idea.

^^ There should definately be a major retail component at that site. I thought the anchor of a grocery store would have been perfect.

Honestly, I am begining to hate HI residents. First they killed off the expansion of the trolley system. Then Blu.

Next they will try to kill off the Channelside complex completely (not really...j/k).

^I still think that lot should be used to expand the Shops in time, and have a landmark tower on it that combines office and hotel space in a single tower.

If by landmark, you mean something taller that may be difficult. Remember, at 42 stories O2 was already killed at that sight by our FAA friends. It's a large area, so maybe something along the lines of the Fairmont condo-hotel project would be more possible at that site, especially if you add some more components, such as retail.

Deal is set to sell shipyard
A Clearwater developer plans a residential-commercial project in the north Channel District.
By STEVE HUETTEL
Published February 16, 2007


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TAMPA - A deal is in the works to build high-end condos on the gritty waterfront of the port's second-largest shipyard.

The owner of International Ship Repair and Marine Services confirmed Thursday he has a contract to sell 22.5 acres at the north end of Ybor Channel to Gibraltar Development of Clearwater. No purchase price was released, but it is believed to be in the neighborhood of $100-million.

Gibraltar wants to build a residential and commercial project that fits in with the north Channel District's transition away from industrial port business, said International owner George Lorton in a prepared statement. Gibraltar president Michael Scarfia said details would be released soon.

The future of the 42-year-old shipyard, where between 350 and 500 employees and contractors work on a typical day, also is unclear. If the land sale goes through, International can keep sand-blasting ship hulls and cutting steel there at least three years, said Lorton.

Tampa Port Authority executives and the company are working to find a new home at the port for the shipyard "to preserve this valuable dry dock facility and workforce," he said.

But port officials say they don't know any locations that would work. Port director Richard Wainio sent Lorton an eight-year-old report that listed 16 potential shipyard sites in the area, privately and publicly owned. Most have been snapped up since then - including some Lorton bought and resold - or would cost the public agency $50-million or more to develop.

The rent would cost more than Lorton is willing pay, Wainio wrote in a letter last fall.

"We're not implying that we don't want International Ship here," he said Thursday. "We're telling him we'll try, but we're not able to identify any suitable parcel of land that we control."

Late last year, Lorton bought a small shipyard in Galveston, Texas, and renamed it Malin International Ship Repair & Dry Dock Co.

The yard is limited to performing "topside" repairs because it lacks dry docks. International has five floating dry docks that lift vessels out of the water for more extensive work on hulls.

Port officials came under attack in recent years from maritime businesses for leasing industrial land for nonshipping uses.

The biggest battle focused on a proposed luxury hotel, high-tech conference center and condo project led by Longboat Key resort owner Murray Klauber.

He holds a lease option on Metroport, a slip used by International Ship. Among the loudest critics: Lorton and executives at International Ship who charged the agency was endangering its core industrial business.

Last summer, Lorton asked Wainio for possible sites to relocate International because of the pending sale. Scarfia showed the port director project plans last month that included high-end condos, stores and shops. The developer on Thursday told Wainio the plans were being revised.

The timing seems off, considering the overbuilt condo market. But Gibraltar plans to build the project over 10 years, said Wainio.

Klauber met with Scarfia three weeks ago and came away impressed with the project, which would sit just north of his development, dubbed the Tampa International Technology Center.

"It's big, big," said Klauber, founder of the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort. "He's got imagination. It raises the whole area's value."

Steve Huettel can be reached at huettel@sptimes.com or (813) 226-3384.

Fast Facts:



Gibraltar Development

President: Michael J. Scarfia Sr.

Offices: Clearwater; San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Local project: Venu, a 50-story condo tower planned for downtown Tampa at Kennedy Boulevard and Ashley Drive.

Retail in Puerto Rico: Western Center in Mayaguez, Ponce Town Center, Rexville Town Center in Bayamon, Airport Plaza in Carolina.

Source: Gibraltar Web site

[Last modified February 15, 2007, 23:08:52]
http://www.sptimes.com/2007/02/16/Business/Deal_is_set_to_sell_s.shtml

awesome news. this area is still blistering hot.

. . . "The timing seems off, considering the overbuilt condo market. But Gibraltar plans to build the project over 10 years, said Wainio." . . .

seems that nothing will be breaking ground from this proposed site anytime soon. I hope we get a chance to at least see a revised rendering of the project.

Klauber said he was impressed and was not threatened by this development so close to his? If that is the case, the northern part of Channelside would be a very exclusive and rich area. Sounds good to me.

Also, if his tower looks as good as Venu, and Klauber developes a great tower, how much would that transform the Tampa skyline!!

Klauber said he was impressed and was not threatened by this development so close to his?



He shouldn't feel threatened. Klaubler's project, atleast the hotel portion, may break ground this year while it appears the new project would be 3 years atleast. They're really in different time periods. :)



seems that nothing will be breaking ground from this proposed site anytime soon.

I honestly wouldn't expect this project to break ground anythime soon because I would think Gibraltar would finish Venu first, before starting on this. :) Plus the article says the current shipping company can stay up to 3 more years.

^Development similar to this is in the works for the entire northern rim of Ybor channel.

I was wondering when this deal was finally going to be reported on.




One thing I don't understand though... Why is the ship repair company pissed off?

One thing I don't understand though... Why is the ship repair company pissed off?

It appears that the repair comopany is being kicked off, one of, if not the only, suitable parcels of land/water for it, in favor of non-maritime businesses supported by the port.

Sounds interesting, VENU certainly looks good so im only hoping that they also do a good job with whatever future plans they have for the place.

It appears that the repair comopany is being kicked off, one of, if not the only, suitable parcels of land/water for it, in favor of non-maritime businesses supported by the port.
Obviously... But who is getting the $100 million?

I hope the loss of the shipyard does not hurt the overall business and status of the port of Tampa. I am guessing this is the shipyard at the end of the ybor channel.

Obviously... But who is getting the $100 million?

I'm not sure. If it is a lease that the shipyard is in it would probably be the port, especially since the shipyard is given 3 years to go. Or it could be split as a buyout deal or something. Unfortunatley, we just don't know the details of the deal.

It doesn't makes sense. The article says that this land is selling for like $100 million... And it also says that replacement of land/facilities for this chunk of the port would cost about $50 million. It seems to me that there is plenty of money to develop a replacement facility and make a huge profit.

If they want, they will find some space

For all you red meat lovers, Gallagher's Steak House is scheduled to open next week - February 26 - down at the Channelside shops. It's going in where the defunct Signature Room was, on top of Hooters.

If you've ever been to their New York location, you know that they know how to do great steaks. Hope it does well.

I hope this hasn't been posted already. I don't recognize it.

259-Unit Condo Tower Proposed For Channel District
Skip directly to the full story.
Published: Feb 20, 2007


TAMPA - Another condo tower has been proposed for the Channel District.

Key Developers filed papers in city hall on Monday, asking the council to rezone property to allow for a 259-unit condo tower at 211 and 227 N. Meridian Ave.

The tower would be no taller than 425 feet and would include more than 10,000 square feet of retail space, according to city documents.

A public hearing is tentatively scheduled for May 24.

The developer, Fida Sirdar, did not return calls Monday.

Ellen Gedalius

http://www.tbo.com/news/metro/MGB53HBRDYE.html

I believe that's about one of the last parcels of land that didn't have a proposed project announced. It's the corner of Meridian and Kennedy, taking up the remainder of the block where The Slade will be.

As you guys know, Fida and Key Developers are the same people behind The Place (phases I and II), so it should be a nice project when officially proposed.

If it is around 400 feet tall, that is atleast about where proposals should be in Channelside from now on to get the apropiate density. Should be a solid project. :)

This versus the mid-rise Slade? Could make for a drastic comparison in height....

I don't find buildings like The Slade, Victory Lofts, or The Place (phase 1) to be attractive, nor very useful when it comes to making the neighborhood a vibrant one. The density simply isn't there.

I'm not saying that such buildings don't have their place in the urban landscape, I'm just thankful that development trends seem to have largely passed that phase now.

I think that this one might be what Meridian DR. will need to complete its full residential feel, but for some reason I do not see Meridian having a lot of retail on it. Does anyone have any graphics that could help me?

Meridian?

Yes, Meridian. I have seen all of these projects that were approved and nothing shows any real retail on Meridian. I know they are trying to build up 11th and 12th as the main shopping areas and centers of convience and all, but does Meridian have any significant retail?

Yes, Meridian. I have seen all of these projects that were approved and nothing shows any real retail on Meridian. I know they are trying to build up 11th and 12th as the main shopping areas and centers of convience and all, but does Meridian have any significant retail?

No, Tampa Council did not want Retail along Meridian as it is going to be a very busy North/South through the district and traffic would be an issue.

Really I would think that they would retail in as many places as possible.

No, Tampa Council did not want Retail along Meridian as it is going to be a very busy North/South through the district and traffic would be an issue.

IF that is actually the case it is the best example of why the city is not really a city. How moronic - we have a main thoroughfare that we spent all this money landscaping - so we will make sure that people have no reason whatsoever to walk down it. . . .So yu put retail on the street where no one will see it . . . um check a real city and see how they do it, please. . .

What I think the Council wanted to do was have most of the retail mostly centralized in one area, or in this case, street. They wanted most of the retail to be along Channelside Drive and keep the rest of CHannelside for residential portion. They didn't want everything spread out for the visitors. You'll have coffee shops and all still at every street corner in CS, but you won't have a well known restuarant in the middle of everything, although they are paid a lot.

But Channelside Drive is an even worse road to put street front retail along, since it is even more of an arterial for DT, and is much more 'one sided' than Meridian when it comes to future development opportunities.

IF that is actually the case it is the best example of why the city is not really a city. How moronic - we have a main thoroughfare that we spent all this money landscaping - so we will make sure that people have no reason whatsoever to walk down it. . . .So yu put retail on the street where no one will see it . . . um check a real city and see how they do it, please. . .

I agree. Plus you want the traffic on Meridian because it has more lanes to handle it. If some retal isn't put on Meridian, that means the smaller roads of 11th and 12th street are going to be near impossible to maneuver, because they'll have all of the retail. :nuts:

Look - no matter what they wanted to do, they were stupid to limit retail on Meridian (if they did do that) - period.

Look - no matter what they wanted to do, they were stupid to limit retail on Meridian (if they did do that) - period.

Currently there are about 600 Residents in Downtown Tampa and the Channel District. Imagine at the end of 2008 when that swells to nearly 5,000 residents. . . Meridian is a MAJOR artery through the district and it would be terrible to have retail along that corridor. Council has done what many cities have learned the hard way from and moved the retail onto the streets that can handle the stop/go characteristics of retail frontage and keep Meridian from turning into a log jam.:soapbox:

But, of course, you move the retail away from where the traffic is so no one knows it is there and then you provide no parking in either case. . . that makes sense.

Oh, and to create a walkable downtown, designate "arterial" roads where everyone is flying and spend a lot of money streetscaping with wide, unused sidewalks. Then you hide the retail and make people park on roads that are 12 feet wide with 2 foot sidewalks . . . I think Michigan avenue follows that models. I can't wait for the 6 foot height limit to make sure drivers have sunlight by which to see.

I think the ample retail in the downtown core is irrefutable proof of the wisdom of Tampa urban planning.

Just got the call today ... walk-thru on 2/28 and closing on 3/6 ... its FINALLY done!

I'm on the sixth floor, so the lower floors are probably moving in even faster ... anyone else get notice?

^ Congrats! In related news, I saw an ad today for the retail spots at Grand Central. Said they were closing Q1 2008. I thought that was a bit odd. It was in the TBT.

I got the letter in the mail, today -- walk through on 2/27 and close on 3/2! Wow, a whole week to be ready to close.

Congrats!!! I bet the views are nice! I can't wait to check them out in person!:banana:

That is what the council wanted to do. They had stated this when they approved Navio, Novare Channelside, and Finergy.

http://i10.tinypic.com/2cwobnl.jpg
http://i16.tinypic.com/2w5vv9y.jpg
http://i17.tinypic.com/44zzgk4.jpg
http://i6.tinypic.com/35071xy.jpg
http://i1.tinypic.com/40n94ip.jpg
http://i12.tinypic.com/40djfrp.jpg
http://i16.tinypic.com/44byhs1.jpg
http://i11.tinypic.com/2a6380g.jpg
http://i15.tinypic.com/4gt8t42.jpg
http://i11.tinypic.com/2dma4ps.jpg
http://i2.tinypic.com/4idcq3a.jpg
http://i12.tinypic.com/2llm0s4.jpg

great pics man...

still shocked that they didn't design a shroud to hide the A/C components on the roof... that really looks like shit.

great pics man...

still shocked that they didn't design a shroud to hide the A/C components on the roof... that really looks like shit.

some sort of cover is coming. they are working with the city to be sure the city is happy with the design.

I officially want one. I wasn't sure, but now I am.

I officially want one. I wasn't sure, but now I am.

A quick search on the MLS reveals that there are plenty of units currently on the market

What are the prices for the condos in channelside (1 bedroom)?
I'm looking for a place to live because I'm attending U.T in fall, and I might not be staying there ie; I might end up at HCC full time because I want to do architecture and just knock out my core classes at U.T etc. But anyways, I was curious because I really want to live downtown.

Nice pics.:) I like Grand Central's street interaction. Also the glass corners, both curved and squared add a nice touch. That pool deck and its view (for now) is just awesome though, very livable. I would love to have that as my home.:cool:

Great pics. I like the kitchen and the 8th(?) floor pool deck.

The pool deck is located on the 9th floor. In the East building there is a pool, grassy knoll, state of the art dog walking area (located behind the cabanas where they can do there thing and it just disappears), spa, clubhouse and they will be adding poolside furniture as well. The West building will be the same except for instead of a clubhouse it will have a fitness center.

Prices start around 200k for a Studio (620 sf) and go up to the 700's for the largest units with expansive glass walls and views of downtown.

Is that just for Grand Central, or is it like basic for all the channelside condos?
I really love these buildings.
I really want The Place at Channelside to get approved, anyone know when city council is doing that?

^ what project is that again? got a render?

when do they start having closings/ move ins on GCK?

Same with Ventana?

^ what project is that again? got a render?

It's the already approved 32 story tower by Key developers, no? Phase 1 is topped out phase 2 is the tower.

This is The Place at Channelside
http://www.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/02/436655.jpg
http://www.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/08/480813.jpg
http://www.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/08/480814.jpg
The renderings are gorgeous and I'm inlove with the design of this building.
And as an aspiring architect, who loves old architecture that is saying a lot.
Here is the link at emporis.
And the 1st stage has been aprooved.
The building is to be 365 ft with 32 floors.

when do they start having closings/ move ins on GCK?

Same with Ventana?

Closings started at the end of last week for the 3rd - 7th Floors on the South side of the building. The rest of the building will close at the end of this month and into April. Move ins are as soon as people close. I have a friend moving in this weekend.:banana:

The West building won't be until mid summer/early fall.

This is The Place at Channelside
http://www.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/02/436655.jpg
http://www.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/08/480813.jpg
http://www.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/08/480814.jpg
The renderings are gorgeous and I'm inlove with the design of this building.
And as an aspiring architect, who loves old architecture that is saying a lot.
Here is the link at emporis.
And the 1st stage has been aprooved.
The building is to be 365 ft with 32 floors.
The Place Phase I is almost complete... So far as I know, the city approved the schematic plan for the Place Phase II months ago. It is now in some phase of development, though I don't know its status. I would call the developer, as I'm sure they'll have some kind of answer.

Place Phase 2 is still on for sure, I know atleast that because recently (about 2 weeks ago) the developer announced another project for Channelside.

They wouldn't propose another tower if their current project still wasn't on.

That view from the Jacuzzi deck, overlooking the city at night has to be breath taking..

Place Phase 2 is still on for sure, I know atleast that because recently (about 2 weeks ago) the developer announced another project for Channelside.

They wouldn't propose another tower if their current project still wasn't on.

You're correct, future. The tower portion of The Place (Phase II) will be well underway by early summer. :)

You're correct, future. The tower portion of The Place (Phase II) will be well underway by early summer. :)

If this is true then Quegiebo we for sure should have
Element 34 U/C
Phase 2 32 strories
Finergy 24-28 stories
Martin 22

all by summertime..

Closings started at the end of last week for the 3rd - 7th Floors on the South side of the building. The rest of the building will close at the end of this month and into April. Move ins are as soon as people close. I have a friend moving in this weekend.:banana:

The West building won't be until mid summer/early fall.

Thanks for the info. Now, as long as most of those units weren't bought by snowbirds or condo flippers, it should start adding an interesting dynamic to the area imminently.

Does anyone have info (or even recent pictures) of Towers at Channelside and their progress?

Does anyone have info (or even recent pictures) of Towers at Channelside and their progress?

I have been meaning to take some shots lately, just haven't gotten around to it. The towers are both topped out and you can see the curved roof pieces are in place. Last I saw (a few days ago) they were painting, probably just the primer coat. I'll probably be near by in the next day or two and will snag some photos. There is still a lot of work to do on the entertainment/pool area between the buildings. At least it looks that way from the ground.

I have access to the patio on Channelside Drive leased by the theatre and from that view, you can see LOTS of work needs to be done to the pool area, as jonkee said. I'm also assuming we're seeing a primer coat... aren't the buildings supposed to be multi-colored and bright?

Anyway, they're a solid addition to the skyscape. Is that law firm that is (sort of) attached at the base going to share the same color scheme?

Is that law firm that is (sort of) attached at the base going to share the same color scheme?

The rendering I saw of it a while back was just a plain, ugly, boring white building. Possibly it has been changed. The only place I've seen its rendering was an on-site "Coming Soon" sign.

I have been meaning to take some shots lately, just haven't gotten around to it. The towers are both topped out and you can see the curved roof pieces are in place. Last I saw (a few days ago) they were painting, probably just the primer coat. I'll probably be near by in the next day or two and will snag some photos. There is still a lot of work to do on the entertainment/pool area between the buildings. At least it looks that way from the ground.

I used the WFTS webcam and looked at the buildings this afternoon. The Easternmost tower has had it's crane removed while the western most tower looks like the crane could be coming down soon.

I think that the law firm is going to be white and boring.

According to the Towers At Channelside website (http://www.towersatchannelside.com/YourCondo/Progress.aspx), completeion of Tower 1 is set for August and Tower 2 for November.

Speaking of the law firm, their building looks ahead of the towers. I walked by about a month or so ago and it looked nearly complete.

Maxim98, do you have any photos from that vantage point? It's probably not surprising there is still a lot of work on the deck. It's very extensive, a lot of pool space. It looks more like a Vegas hotel.

T@C is going to be an awesome place.

If this is true then Quegiebo we for sure should have
Element 34 U/C
Phase 2 32 strories
Finergy 24-28 stories
Martin 22

all by summertime..

Well I'm not exactly sure about Finergy or Martin, but Element and Phase 2 are movin' on up and I'm bettin' that TTT will be joining them this year as well . :)

Martin will happen.

My most recent photo from the patio is from late November, so it doesn't offer much insight. I just need to remember my camera next time I sneak over. Perhaps this weekend when I see 300...

It's a shame the law firm can't coordinate colors with T@C, since they are practically attached at the hip.

Well I'm not exactly sure about Finergy or Martin, but Element and Phase 2 are movin' on up and I'm bettin' that TTT will be joining them this year as well

What is your basis for saying this? We know Element is under construction. As far as I know, there is no reason to think the Place Phase 2 will do anything. IF you have a real source, let us know

^^ My source is developer Fida Sirdar, president of Key Developers Group, LLC, and the guy who happens to be behind the project. ;)
For me, personally, it is my favorite tower of all offered in the channelside district. I can't wait to see it take shape.

The reason I ask is that they do not seem to be selling anything and there is little indication that they will start anytime soon. Did he give a time frame and say anything about sales?

I have long been under the impression that they wouldn't start sales until the Place I is open... But I have no direct info...

My understanding is that they are currently polling their buyers on who is going to close and move-in, versus those who are going to try to flip.

I've been to two of their parties, and from talking to some of their buyers, I wouldn't be suprised if 60-70% of the buyers are not planning to move-in. Don't get me wrong, The Place is so nice, but I think like Grand Central, it will take awhile for permanent and second residents to asorb the upcoming supply (which I think would be a major concern for starting phase II so soon).



I have long been under the impression that they would start sales when the Place I is open... But I have no direct info...

The reason I ask is that they do not seem to be selling anything and there is little indication that they will start anytime soon. Did he give a time frame and say anything about sales?

Actually, he made no mention about sales at all. In his remarks (last November), he stated that he was very pleased that the tower portion of the project had been approved, but he had hoped that it could have been approved earlier in the process.

Initially, he wanted to break ground on Phase II before the end of the year but stated that it just wasn't possible. He said (and I'm paraphrasing here) that he fully expected the tower portion of the project to be well on its way by early summer and then commented about Tampa's enormous potential. He also mentioned that he and his team would possibly be involved in other projects locally.

I guess nothing is etched in stone, but I do remember him being adamant about moving on to the next phase. Based on how I read his remarks, I'm betting that Phase II will start sometime early this summer. I've gotta tell ya, I'll be extremely disappointed if this turns out not to be the case. :(

Actually, he made no mention about sales at all. In his remarks (last November), he stated that he was very pleased that the tower portion of the project had been approved, but he had hoped that it could have been approved earlier in the process.

Initially, he wanted to break ground on Phase II before the end of the year but stated that it just wasn't possible. He said (and I'm paraphrasing here) that he fully expected the tower portion of the project to be well on its way by early summer and then commented about Tampa's enormous potential. He also mentioned that he and his team would possibly be involved in other projects locally.


Well the haven't begun sales yet and they wouldn't have much time if they plan to start in summer so all I could think of is they'll try to do what Novare Group does. Make affordable units in a nice tower and begin ground construction then some sales then going vertical.

And we've already seen them propose another tower in Channelside, so it looks like the part about being involved in other projects has already come true.

Well, they may get it moving but is sounds like just another sales pitch to me.

double

delete

Check out what I found... Very unique idea that this realtor was able to get into all three buildings for tours (and post them on youtube).

www.YouTube.com/DtownerTampa (http://www.YouTube.com/DtownerTampa)

After watching that chick for about 10 seconds I wanted to hang myself. Seriously, Lulu the dog? It reminds me why I don't use my license.


Anyways, The Towers at Channelside are turning out fairly nice. My first impression of them is that they seemed a bit uninspired and sort of reminded me of something that you would see on International Drive in Orlando. Its amazing what a couple of arched architectural features on the top will do for a building. You guys are lucky to have Channelside in such close proximity to your downtown. I think that whole area is poised for some great things.

That chick is (unintentionally) hilarious. :-X haha

That's my first look into The Place, so it's still worthwhile. I'm envious of the person that gets to enjoy the 1000 sq ft terrace on the Penthouse of Ventana. Thanks for the video link.

The pictures are nice, too. For some reason, I never noticed the curved glass wall on Grand Central. It's a good touch.

Her living room has such great views.. Man I could throw a killer party in there..

Oh my goodness, she's a caricature of herself. If I ever met a realtor and they had a dog with them I would walk away right there. No offense LuLu!

Hey, o-native, I was watching the caisson work at Element this week and wondering why the trend is Caisson rather than just making a solid foundation. I also was wondering why there seemed to be no deiscernable pattern to which caisson they were doing. Insights are welcome.

Man that video is tortorous. It reminds me of people that hold their dogs in purses and carry them around, because their dog's feet might get dirty. I hope that video is not trying to advertise or I think she just turned away a lot of people.:ohno:

Anyway, the views are excellent from those units.

Also, nice pictures Cwat212. I think the Towers will look much more attracrive once painted.

While I was talking with a commercial broker this afternoon about Channelside, he mentioned to me that the Finergy project is currently listed on the market for an undisclosed price. I was really hoping (and still am) that this project would start soon, since it would be nice to see a hotel go in the Channel District.

Has anyone else heard this? He said it has been on the market quietly in the commerical realty circle. This is the same guy that told me that the Kress/Jason Doran project is/was on the market for a starting bid of $32,000,000 (land and development rights only). Turned out he was in-fact correct.

Hey, o-native, I was watching the caisson work at Element this week and wondering why the trend is Caisson rather than just making a solid foundation. I also was wondering why there seemed to be no deiscernable pattern to which caisson they were doing. Insights are welcome.

Most of it has to do with soil conditions in the area and preference of the Structural Engineer. For example, here in Orlando we use very few caisson packages, we use a lot of augercast piles on our projects combined with solid mat foundations in the elevator pits. Every now and then in Orlando you will see a mat pour which is the solid slab that floats. This is extremely difficult to pull off and a lot of GC's and structural engineers don't feel comfortable with it. Anytime that I have ever done work in Tampa or St. Pete I have always used Caissons (e.g. All Childrens (talk about a bitch), Progress Energy). However I don't know of a single building in Tampa to be built on a mat.

The patterns for drilling are determined by the location of maximum load. Typically columns, shear walls, and elevator cores are loaded up pretty good. Perimeter walls always receive their fair share. And the location of the tower cranes nowadays receive them as well, which hasn't always been the case.

Hey all, I'm don't normally post this much, but I found what might be a sneak peek of the next major proposed project for Channelside!

From the same architect of The Place I & II, check out the link below to see what could be the next BIG proposal (IMO)... The client is billed as Great Gulf Homes, which from the research I have done, is related to Ashton Woods Homes (already here in Tampa, and known for their suburban offerings)...

My only question is... Where in Channelside could this project go? It looks like it would take up an entire city block. Perhaps this is something planned for the City of Tampa owned land on the east side of Channelside Drive? Especially since the description highlights it will have sweeping views of Ybor Channel...

http://www.hariripontarini.com then click on "projects", then "by name", then "Great Gulf, Tampa"

Great Gulf, Tampa

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e260/lennier07/Picture11.png

This mixed-use development is composed of a low-rise plinth, supporting two residential towers. Addressing the scale of the street, the sleek, horizontal mass houses live-work studios, retail, and commercial units, as well as rooftop residential units. An interior, landscaped courtyard with a central swimming pool ensures green views within the core of the project, while the towers are positioned to maximize sweeping views of the city and Ybor Channel

Very interesting find. Hmm...

I was thinking at first that this might be an old concept, but it appears to have all the elements of the only recently embraced "point tower" design style.

Plus, I'm 99% sure that had this architect been involved in another project while the Place was going through their approvals, presales, and re-approvals, we would have heard about this...

I just can't, for life of me, think of where they could squeeze this project in. Even the city-owned land seems like a longshot.

The Place, Phase II

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e260/lennier07/Picture12.png

I'm not sure I've seen this particular set of elevations before, so I thought I'd post it here for our viewing pleasure. :-P If these have been posted before and I'm somehow forgetting, we can at least salivate over the project. The other renderings on the architect's page for The Place have been posted before....

The scale of the Phase II tower compared to the dense Phase I mid-rises is stunning, considering the area. The first phase looks fantastic.... imagine this completing the block....

Speaking of Phase II, if it fails to sell, what will become of the empty plot of land? The Place design sort of relies on the completion of the tower...

Most of it has to do with soil conditions in the area and preference of the Structural Engineer. For example, here in Orlando we use very few caisson packages, we use a lot of augercast piles on our projects combined with solid mat foundations in the elevator pits. Every now and then in Orlando you will see a mat pour which is the solid slab that floats. This is extremely difficult to pull off and a lot of GC's and structural engineers don't feel comfortable with it. Anytime that I have ever done work in Tampa or St. Pete I have always used Caissons (e.g. All Childrens (talk about a bitch), Progress Energy). However I don't know of a single building in Tampa to be built on a mat.

The patterns for drilling are determined by the location of maximum load. Typically columns, shear walls, and elevator cores are loaded up pretty good. Perimeter walls always receive their fair share. And the location of the tower cranes nowadays receive them as well, which hasn't always been the case.

Excellent info. The Federal Courthouse was a slab, I believe - though they may have done something I did not notice at the time (they definitely dug the big pit, etc.). My question about the caisson spread was more to the point they seem to do them in a random order all over the lot rather than row after row - almost to the point of not knowing what was done (cause they usually cover it) - it seem odd.

Interesting renderings Maxim. Place Phase 2 just totally dominates the Phase 1 to the point in which Phase 1 seems like a underutizlation of the of land. And it is, it was U/C before the heights were increased in Channelside. What I really love is the base on Phase 2. It Should be the city's best parking garage when/if built.

The Great Gulf project looks nice, but the towers are very spread out, almost not dense enough for Channelside depending on the exact location.

Nah, I think the garage at the project a block south will be cooler if it gets built... Del Villar, is that the one?

Nah, I think the garage at the project a block south will be cooler if it gets built... Del Villar, is that the one?

Cooler than The Place II? I'll take the Place pedestal (with the colorful covering) over Del Villar.

That said, I like Del Villar. I'm just enamored with the structured and clean appearance of The Place.

I must say, the paint they've selected for The Place I is sort of cold. I suppose it's better than the cream color they selected for the renderings, though.

I agree Maxim. There is a great close up rendering of the garage if you go back to that website and click on the middle tab under the Place's picture. I'd post it but it is in Adobe, which I can't figure out.

Another garage worth mentioning is the Royal's garage, and Venu.

You said garage, not the entire pedestal. The Del Villar garage will kick ass...

But if we're talking the entire pedestal, we definitely have to go with the way that the Place Phase II meets the street, which from what I have seen promises to be one of the best looking ones in downtown.

Some big news: Slade and surprisingly Seaboard Square may be next to go up.

Channel Area Momentum Continues

By JANIS D. FROELICH The Tampa Tribune

Published: Mar 10, 2007


CHANNEL DISTRICT - Miami developer Juan Porro has had a fairly easy time developing a 280-unit residential and retail project at 202 N. 11th St.

In fall 2005, residents overwhelmingly supported the eight-story structure, since named The Slade. After getting zoning approval from the city council, Porro and his staff began selling space in the project, which calls for 14,250 square feet of retail and will wrap around Meridian Avenue near Kennedy Boulevard and Washington Street.

Porro used a $50,000 model to help prospective buyers visualize the one- to three-bedroom units, ranging from $250,000 to $500,000. So far, he said, 140 units have been sold, plus almost all of the retail space.

At the end of March, The Slade's sales center will move across the street to the third floor of City Blue Print Co., 119 N. 11th St. Then, three connected former warehouses on 2 ½ acres will be razed to make way for the project.

Porro said he doesn't expect the demolition to cause traffic problems on Meridian, which serves as a connector road for the elevated lanes of the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway.

Another developer also plans to raze Channel District buildings soon. Darian Johnson, president of Sembler Investments of St. Petersburg, said three large warehouses and three sheds near or along Meridian should be bulldozed by summer.

Construction will then begin on a 110-room hotel and a 125-unit residential tower, the first phase of a 725-residence project. The Seaboard Square complex will occupy almost 6 acres. As part of the Sembler project, the zigzag in 11th Street where it meets Whiting Street will be straightened.

"This is big news that Slade is about ready to build," Johnson said. "Combined with the projects about to open, it will be nice to finally see people in the Channel District."

Porro said Tampa is a reflection of where Miami was five to 10 years ago.

"Florida is a young state," he said. "The urban resurgence has begun, and now it's Tampa's turn."

Another project accepting preconstruction contracts is The Martin, a 22-story condominium tower being developed by Mercury Advisors. It is next door to another Mercury project, Grand Central at Kennedy, which is expected to open soon.

The Martin, at Twiggs Street and Meridian, has its sales office at 1115 E. Twiggs St., and Mercury developers Ken Stoltenberg and Frank Bombeeck plan to begin building the 392-unit project in September. Their third area project, Del Villar, on Channelside Drive, had its zoning hearing delayed until April 12.

Reporter Janis D. Froelich can be reached at jfroelich@tampatrib.com or (813) 835-2104.

http://southtampa.tbo.com/southtampa/MGBGFSDY2ZE.html

This could be the next wave of construction in Channelside. I know I'd be surprised about Seaboard starting in the summer, so I'll believe it when I see it. I really didn't think it had a chance to start this year but they are building the hotel portion and only some residences first which is smart. Seaboard is huge for the district because it connects the Entertainment complex and Towers @ Channelside with the rest of the district pedestrian wise. Martin in September doesn't surprise me that much, also Slade in the summer is about where I was hoping for it.

I can't wait for Slade, its a beautiful building.

^I wouldn't go that far... Ultimately, it is just another one of the massive concrete slabs sprouting in the northern part of the district... With any good fortune, the projects already taking this form will be the last of them. A district full of these slabs would have been very, very unfortunate.... With that said, this is surely competing with the Place Phase I and Grand Central for 'best slab in Channelside'... :)


This could be the next wave of construction in Channelside. I know I'd be surprised about Seaboard starting in the summer, so I'll believe it when I see it. I really didn't think it had a chance to start this year but they are building the hotel portion and only some residences first which is smart. Seaboard is huge for the district because it connects the Entertainment complex and Towers @ Channelside with the rest of the district pedestrian wise. Martin in September doesn't surprise me that much, also Slade in the summer is about where I was hoping for it.
Pretty much exactly my thoughts...

I guess with the Finergy project apprarently for sale, and Klauber's continued inability to get his TTC project moving has left the door open for Sembler to step up and build the first hotel in the Channel district. Bully for them.

Well, I finally moved into Grand Central today ... and, apparently, I'm only the *third* to move in here ... it's dead! Can't even receive mail, the hallways aren't finished, pretty much nothing is finished. Construction right outside my door.

I'm sure I'll be happy 6-9 months down the road, but I wouldn't buy from Mercury Advisors again. Closing was rushed, closing costs were astronomical, lenders couldn't get appraisals because of nothing being finished, lots in my own condo that wasn't included (and still hasn't been completed even after a few weeks after walkthrough) ... lots of problems.

If you're driving/walking by, wave hi ... I'm the only one with patio chairs out so far ;)

What's with the spam links, NPR?

I don't know, but if that keeps up, I'm going to have to suspend his account. Maybe he has a virus or something that is replacing links?

Hey Kentski,

Welcome to the neighborhood! I live just down 12th street at 212 Channelside. And your horror stories of closing have brought back bad memories of our own closing in 2003. I ran into many of the same issues you've reported with a different developer here, so you're certainly not alone.

I think you made a good investment, as this neighborhood is really going to take off in the future. Still lots of growing pains to go through, but I think it will pay off in the end.

Enjoy!

^^^ No question about it. You're on the ground floor of a very profitable investment. These hassles, too, shall pass. It'll be well worth it in the long run.

Hang in there, kentski. ;)

Thanks FLHawk and Quegiebo ... much appreciated! Hope to see y'all around the neighborhood (I'm diggin' the outdoor bar at TinaTapa's so I'll be around there quite a bit).

Hey Maxim where did you find that rendering?

^^^ No question about it. You're on the ground floor of a very profitable investment. These hassles, too, shall pass. It'll be well worth it in the long run.

Hang in there, kentski. ;)

I agree - give it a little time and it'll be awesome. That area is exploding right now, and in about a year will be bustling with activity. You're pioneers in this area and I thank you for that. We really needed it.

After getting out of college, and getting financially secure, (which may be never :lol: ) I may move there, if costs haven't gotten too far out of hand...

Hope to see you down here in the future as well, Moxwax ...

This might be old news, so apologies if it is. Working from home today and walked around. Stopped by the Slade sales office -- according to the reps, they have 60% hard contracts and are breaking ground within six weeks. Sounds like its a done deal. They also said that they would be the only building breaking ground in 2007 ...

The apartments (Seaport?) behind Grand Central are going up FAST! Cassions are already all over the place on the Eastern half, and the Western half has two area that look like retaining ponds? Anyway, they're working hard, so I wouldn't be surprised if that project is completed in 6-9-12 months.

Well, they are probably right that they are the only condo building breaking ground - though you never know about things like Place II etc - also hoepfully some hotels will go up

Doubtful that the Place II will start construction in 07. I was at the Channelside District Council meeting last night, and Fida Sirdar made a presentation on early plans for his new project on the corner of Kennedy and Meridian. Here are some interesting points:

- The Place I will begin closings and move-ins in late April, with the 12th Street corridor opening back up mid-month.
- The Place II will be building a sales center on their site (corner of Washington and Channelside) this summer.
- New project will be 38 stories (~420 feet) tall, with 7 floors of parking, 9000 square feet of retail (mostly facing Meridian).
- Same Toronto-based architect firm that designed Phase II (although I personally like Phase II's design better).
- Still very early in the process, so no scheduled hearing before the city at this time.

It may be true that the Slade will be the only Channelside project to begin construction in 2007, but I am still hearing that the Fairmont Hotel is planning to break ground by this summer if all goes well at their City Council presentation. Guess we'll have to keep our eyes peeled.

I would like to see 12th or 11th Street become brick, I think that would add to the class of Channelside.
But then again, maybe it will go against it.
There needs to be like a Beach for Channelside cuz, it's architecture is that of what you would see in Miami! Plus I hate driving out to Clearwater. lol

Doubtful that the Place II will start construction in 07. I was at the Channelside District Council meeting last night, and Fida Sirdar made a presentation on early plans for his new project on the corner of Kennedy and Meridian. Here are some interesting points:

- The Place I will begin closings and move-ins in late April, with the 12th Street corridor opening back up mid-month.
- The Place II will be building a sales center on their site (corner of Washington and Channelside) this summer.
- New project will be 38 stories (~420 feet) tall, with 7 floors of parking, 9000 square feet of retail (mostly facing Meridian).
- Same Toronto-based architect firm that designed Phase II (although I personally like Phase II's design better).
- Still very early in the process, so no scheduled hearing before the city at this time.

It may be true that the Slade will be the only Channelside project to begin construction in 2007, but I am still hearing that the Fairmont Hotel is planning to break ground by this summer if all goes well at their City Council presentation. Guess we'll have to keep our eyes peeled.

Good information. Looks like we may get some retail proposed on Meridian after all despite the city trying to keep it away. I would love to see the Fairmont Hotel break ground this summer as would the rest of this forum. However, I think what the Slade developer is saying about Slade being the only new project to break ground in '07 is simply to hype his project and sales. Recently we heard the Martin and Seaboard Phase 1 plan to break ground this year, and although they might not it seems it would be in the Slade developers best interest to try and call a bluff on two better projects. Seaboard location wise, and Martin height/view wise.

You can make predictions about your own project (you've got the inside info), but claiming to know everyone else's plans is a bit much. I wouldn't believe it for a second, sounds like a typical salesman trying to make a sale.

There needs to be like a Beach for Channelside cuz, it's architecture is that of what you would see in Miami! Plus I hate driving out to Clearwater. lol

If you are willing to swim in Garrison Channel be my guest, I don't think you would seem me willing to get in there.

Doubtful that the Place II will start construction in 07. I was at the Channelside District Council meeting last night, and Fida Sirdar made a presentation on early plans for his new project on the corner of Kennedy and Meridian. Here are some interesting points:

- The Place I will begin closings and move-ins in late April, with the 12th Street corridor opening back up mid-month.
- The Place II will be building a sales center on their site (corner of Washington and Channelside) this summer.
- New project will be 38 stories (~420 feet) tall, with 7 floors of parking, 9000 square feet of retail (mostly facing Meridian).
- Same Toronto-based architect firm that designed Phase II (although I personally like Phase II's design better).
- Still very early in the process, so no scheduled hearing before the city at this time.

It may be true that the Slade will be the only Channelside project to begin construction in 2007, but I am still hearing that the Fairmont Hotel is planning to break ground by this summer if all goes well at their City Council presentation. Guess we'll have to keep our eyes peeled.

Good information aside from the bias previously discussed. I think a 38 story tower would fit well into the skyline at that end of Channelside, somewhat balancing the southern end with the twin towers.

If you are willing to swim in Garrison Channel be my guest, I don't think you would seem me willing to get in there.

Seriously... Does he realize that it's a manmade industrial channel previously used for docking and repairing tankers?

Sick.

They could do what they did at the Four Seasons Miami did, and create a man made beach. Not touching the water.

It would be great if Tampa had something like South Bank Parkland in Brisbane, Australia. That is a large park with many cultural institutions and a big swimming lagoon, overlooking the river and the skyline.

www.visitsouthbank.com/attractions/streets_beach

Seriously... Does he realize that it's a manmade industrial channel previously used for docking and repairing tankers?

Sick.

I'm not talking about the Garrison Channel ew. I'm talking just like anywhere in that area, perhaps if they bought up the otherside of the Ybor Channel and cleaned it up they could do something with that.
I think we need a beach in Tampa other than Davis Beach.

Welcome neighbor! I moved onto the 3rd floor about an hour after closing on 3/2/07. Unlike you, closing was painless & tidy. Getting keys, keycards, manuals, clickers was alot more haphazard. But to be fair, it would appear that I was the first person going thru the process with Bob & Lee. So we all just smiled and waded our way thru it.

Yes...it is dead. But at least you can play music at levels you would never do normaly, park in handicapped spots because they are closer, and nip into other units to get touch-up paint! Not a bad deal for the time being.

Unit was delivered as promised, very small items have been attended to.

More stories later.

I'm back in Tampa on April 12th...we should celebrate.

Bronze 3rd floor

Mick
Well, I finally moved into Grand Central today ... and, apparently, I'm only the *third* to move in here ... it's dead! Can't even receive mail, the hallways aren't finished, pretty much nothing is finished. Construction right outside my door.

I'm sure I'll be happy 6-9 months down the road, but I wouldn't buy from Mercury Advisors again. Closing was rushed, closing costs were astronomical, lenders couldn't get appraisals because of nothing being finished, lots in my own condo that wasn't included (and still hasn't been completed even after a few weeks after walkthrough) ... lots of problems.

If you're driving/walking by, wave hi ... I'm the only one with patio chairs out so far ;)

You can make predictions about your own project (you've got the inside info), but claiming to know everyone else's plans is a bit much.
Agreed...

Unless you're in a different position within the development circles, which gives you access to documents that even developers don't easily find out about each other...(in my experience, this is mainly people who work in certain govt departments dt)

Another Tower May Sprout On Meridian

By JANIS D. FROELICH The Tampa Tribune

Published: Mar 24, 2007


CHANNEL DISTRICT - If another high-rise is approved by the city council in two months, Meridian Avenue may someday resemble a mini version of Bayshore Boulevard.

Fida Sirdar, whose Key Developers is developing two other projects in this neighborhood, plans a 38-story tower at 211 and 227 N. Meridian Ave.

With Sirdar's latest proposal, the recently redesigned Meridian, used by commuters to enter and exit the elevated lanes of the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, would have nine high-rises in its immediate area.

Sirdar said his plan for a 420-foot tower is the only way to make the retail and condominium complex work on the 1.3-acre site.

"We plan a thin, graceful tower," he told Channel District Council members at a Wednesday night meeting at The Florida Aquarium.

The project would feature 259 condominiums and a seven-story parking garage. Two-story residences would surround the garage on Meridian, with parking for retail and residences accessed from Meridian and Kennedy Boulevard.

Sirdar said condos would average 1,200 square feet; prices haven't been set.

If approved by the city council on May 24, Sirdar's unnamed project would join the line of other developments planned or under construction.

Sembler Investments plans two 29-story towers as part of its 5.8-acre, 725-unit Seaboard Square project between Meridian and 12th Street.

The 21-story Navio project is planned for Whiting Street and Meridian, and The Martin will rise 22 stories at Meridian and Twiggs Street. The area also will be home to the twin 29-story Towers of Channelside, soon to open across from the Channelside retail area complex. Plus, Blu Channelside's two 30-story towers are planned across from Towers of Channelside, where Meridian becomes Beneficial Drive.

Sirdar plans to open the first phase of The Place soon, followed by phase two. Both projects are on Channelside Drive at Washington Street.

Sirdar said phase two of The Place and his latest project will seek the highest certification from the nonprofit U.S. Green Building Council. His architect, David Pontarini of Toronto, said the buildings will incorporate environmentally friendly "green" characteristics, such as efficient water and energy use.

Pontarini said the developer will pay upfront costs to follow the certification standards.

"But the advantage will be experienced by residents for years to come," he said.

Reporter Janis D. Froelich can be reached at (813) 835-2104 or jfroelich@tamptrib.com.

http://southtampa.tbo.com/southtampa/MGB33W6YMZE.html

If another high-rise is approved by the city council in two months, Meridian Avenue may someday resemble a mini version of Bayshore Boulevard.

How would Meridian resemble Bayshore? Meridian isn't walkable or on the water like Bayshore, and there will not be large single family homes on Meridian.

Anyway it sounds like a nice project. Thin and graceful is what we need since it will be near boxy and stubby Martin, Slade, and Grand Central. And the there if the project is built we may finally get some retail on Meridian.

At 420 feet the sirdar tower will be taller than skypoint. nice.

^Would be one of the 5 tallest buildings in the district for quite a long time I would imagine...

I would really love to be able to visualize all these great towers in town... *hint hint*

how is that coming anyway, jasonhouse?

If another high-rise is approved by the city council in two months, Meridian Avenue may someday resemble a mini version of Bayshore Boulevard.

How would Meridian resemble Bayshore? Meridian isn't walkable or on the water like Bayshore, and there will not be large single family homes on Meridian.


I thought the same thing, that was a really terrible analogy on Froelich's part. Bayshore is dominated by it's unbroken sidewalk, water views, classic colonial mansions, etc. Ashley or Tampa would have been better choices, both are lined by large towers and have urban settings. I guess that's what you get for the Tribune.

A thin graceful tower would be great in Channelside. Can't wait for the rendering.

At 420 feet the sirdar tower will be taller than skypoint. nice.

Yes it's very close to Skypoint though. It is the tallest proposal in Channelside right now. Well, atleast that we have height figures on. Fairmont is also 38 stories.

I thought the same thing, that was a really terrible analogy on Froelich's part. Bayshore is dominated by it's unbroken sidewalk, water views, classic colonial mansions, etc. Ashley or Tampa would have been better choices, both are lined by large towers and have urban settings. I guess that's what you get for the Tribune.



Yeah it is a pretty poor article. Also, I've been diappointed with the Tribune over the past week, for example the Trib (or any media outlet for that matter) had no article mentioning TWELVE's approval or any of the other proposals supposidly going before the council on the 22nd. (Still don't know anything about the other proposals so if anyone has any info on them it would be appreciated) Then there was the Tribune article on TTT a few days back by Daniel Ruth, and now a this analogy and outdated info. (It still has Blu as two 30 story towers planned which was already rejected,because of some HI residents.)

I would really love to be able to visualize all these great towers in town... *hint hint*

how is that coming anyway, jasonhouse?

Not very quickly... Have been sick 2x in the past 4 weeks, and have been working long hours when I'm not sick... And have been spending ALOT of time on projects for the site...


Also, I'm having a good deal of difficulty figuring out proper dimensions for some buildings... Not a lot of info on Tampa's tall buildings, like there is on the buildings in some other cities.

the Trib (or any media outlet for that matter) had no article mentioning TWELVE's approval or any of the other proposals supposidly going before the council on the 22nd. (Still don't know anything about the other proposals so if anyone has any info on them it would be appreciated)

Well the Trib is rag, especially in comparison to the Times. But I'm not sure why no one has covered TWELVE yet, SSC has an exclusive still. My crappy photos are still all we have, unfortenatly. I watched the meeting and at the start they went through a bunch of projects postponed until further meetings. I didn't have the sheet that said what was what, so I had no idea what was being requested when (it was just numbers, 1-16 I thin). All I know is the only major projects I saw were TWELVE and the MetLife Westshore project. The council gushed over TWELVE and scoffed at MetLife.

Since Jason was at the meeting he might know more, he probably had the handout for example. I didn't see anyone on any Channelside projects.

In terms of giving info on Tampa both suck - the Trib because it is inefficient and the Times because it is so biased against Tampa. . .

^^ can't argue with your point, smiley. What surprised me was the positive write-up about Novare/Skypoint last week. I actually double-checked to verify that it was a Times article.

Who knew?!?! :)

Doubtful that the Place II will start construction in 07. I was at the Channelside District Council meeting last night, and Fida Sirdar made a presentation on early plans for his new project on the corner of Kennedy and Meridian.

- The Place II will be building a sales center on their site (corner of Washington and Channelside) this summer.


Wow! I hope the sales center is not what he meant when he said that the project would be breaking ground this summer. That's very disappointing! :(

Another High-Rise Project Proposed For Channel District
Published: Mar 26, 2007

TAMPA - If another high-rise is approved by the Tampa City Council in two months, Meridian Avenue may someday resemble a mini version of Bayshore Boulevard.

Fida Sirdar, whose Key Developers is developing two other projects in the Channel District, plans a 38-story tower at 211 and 227 N. Meridian Ave.

With Sirdar's latest proposal, the recently redesigned Meridian, used by commuters to enter and exit the elevated lanes of the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, would have nine high-rises in its immediate area.

Sirdar said his plan for a 420-foot tower is the only way to make the retail and condominium complex work on the 1.3-acre site.

"We plan a thin, graceful tower," he told Channel District residents this month.

The project would feature 259 condominiums and a seven-story parking garage. Two-story residences would surround the garage on Meridian, with parking for retail and residences accessed from Meridian and Kennedy Boulevard.

Sirdar said condos would average 1,200 square feet; prices haven't been set.

http://www.tbo.com/news/metro/MGB1GYH6QZE.html

Didn't the Trib run that articles a few days ago?

Wierd...

^The Trib's a hot mess. That article did run the other day. The first article (24th) was actually more complete. Still feels like Ground Hog Day.

http://southtampa.tbo.com/southtampa/MGB33W6YMZE.html

I wonder... Out of GCK, Towers at Channelside, Skypoint in the downtown core and other projects I am skipping -- which one is going to have the most vacant units by the time the building is listed as complete? We've had two posts of people who have moved into GCK and we have had relatively no talk what soever about towers at channelside... All while Skypoint has also gotten a lot of talk (and we have at least 2 posters on the site who have purchased units).

Disappointing news... :ohno:

http://www.sptimes.com/2007/03/30/Business/Big_tech_center_proje.shtml

Big tech center project
Rising costs doom plans for a luxury hotel with a grand conference center.
By STEVE HUETTEL
Published March 30, 2007


For six years, Murray Klauber chased his improbable dream to build the area's first five-star hotel and a high-tech conference center across from a fuel depot at Tampa's port.

The colorful founder of the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort on Longboat Key gave up Thursday, saying rising construction costs and changing real estate economics doomed the $426-million project.

Klauber faced a Saturday deadline to pay the Tampa Port Authority $546,000 to lease 11 acres on Ybor Channel.

Instead of showing up for a meeting to close the deal Thursday morning, he e-mailed a letter stating that he wouldn't pursue the project, said port director Richard Wainio.

His plans were as ambitious as the name, Tampa Bay International Technology Center.

The complex was to include a conference center with two amphitheaters, an exhibition floor the size of a football field and conference rooms, all equipped to beam corporate meetings worldwide.

Klauber said he had signed a deal with luxury chain Fairmont Hotels & Resorts to manage the 349-room, five-star property. His partnership planned to sell 216 high-end condos.

Investors shied away, he said, worried the units wouldn't sell in Florida's oversaturated condo market. Escalating construction costs drove the project's price tag so high that Klauber and a handful of friends who invested with him couldn't make an acceptable return, he said.

The port authority first granted him a lease option in 2001 for the site just north of the agency's headquarters on Channelside Drive. He won repeated extensions to round up financing and solidify plans.

Critics called his idea "pie in the sky." The Tampa Bay area isn't ready for an big ultra-luxury hotel, said hospitality industry experts, much less one on the port's gritty waterfront.

Wainio, who came to the port in 2005, was disappointed, but not surprised, the project died.

"Did I give it much of a chance of happening after what I've seen the last year and a half? No," he said.

Steve Huettel can be reached at huettel@sptimes.com huettel@sptimes.com or (813) 226-3384.

^I think that many of us knew that project was dead the day the condo prices were leaked, and were averaging $600+ per sqft for a location in a brownfield.

A huge, yet atleast partially expected disappointment. I was atleast hoping for the hotel portion to be built, knowing it was unlikely the developer could get all of those high priced condos sold. The project wasn't possible finacially if the condos weren't purchased being which was probably most of the cash would of been made.

^^ can't argue with your point, smiley. What surprised me was the positive write-up about Novare/Skypoint last week. I actually double-checked to verify that it was a Times article.

Who knew?!?! :)

Read the comments on the story posted online. My GOD is this area backwoods.

These were the twin 38-story towers, correct? I had believed this to be a relatively new development, not one that has been in the works for six years. I hope this does not become a trend...

^I think that many of us knew that project was dead the day the condo prices were leaked, and were averaging $600+ per sqft for a location in a brownfield.
They would first have to get rid of the industrial crap before this could be done.
The location is definatly bad

These were the twin 38-story towers, correct? I had believed this to be a relatively new development, not one that has been in the works for six years. I hope this does not become a trend...

Yes, well the project had changed make-up several times. It started out as a 70 story proposal then went down to 55, then 45, then two 38 story towers.

As far as it becoming a trend though I wouldn't expect a whole lot of projects pulled back. This was probably the most outrageously priced condo out in Tampa.

Heh, did anyone notice the new market going into Channelside? It's a small bodega/market retail area facing Channelside Drive...

in the channelside complex?

Yup.

Fronting Channelside Drive. Pirate's Market & Bodega.

Yup.

Fronting Channelside Drive. Pirate's Market & Bodega.

I assume it is similar to a Gas Station Food Mart size-wise but nicer of course?

Either way that is totally pimp for the Towers At Channelside residences moving in this year. Being right across the street from a Market/Bodega.

By "totally pimp" I assume you mean "very good" rather than a place to purchase 18 crack addicts with you beer and wine . . though this is Tampa . . .

I am new to this site but can anyone tell me about the Towers at Channelside? I bught in Towere 2 and have no idea when we close, if its all investors, how many vacancies, etc.. Any help would be appreciated!!

Hi Dhayes, welcome to the forum!

And now, I sadly have to tell you that we've largely been in the dark regarding Towers at Channelside as well (even though we live here). In fact, you're the first person to post with regards to having any type of investment within the Towers of Channelside project on this forum. I was remarking the other day that we've had people who have bought into other condo projects downtown but haven't heard from anyone who bought into Towers at Channelside.

From the exterior (and that is the only true information I have had about TofC), the buildings are both nearing completion. The cranes have been disassembled and removed from both towers.

You may wan tot try emailing them or something. Here's the link to the contact page of their web site:
http://towersatchannelside.com/Contact/

EDIT off of their web site:
Tower 1's Grand Opening is estimated in the month of November 2007

Tower 2 completion is estimated in the month of August 2007.

hCompletion but no opening data. Hmmm

I assume it is similar to a Gas Station Food Mart size-wise but nicer of course?

Either way that is totally pimp for the Towers At Channelside residences moving in this year. Being right across the street from a Market/Bodega.

It's the size of a usual retail slip. The doors were open (but it was closed) and I could see a few bar tables, a row of about a half-dozen grocery coolers, and some shelving. It looked nice.

keyboard got wrong = so is everyone there an investor or r there residents? No one will tell me.

^ I don't think that investor/homestead was released, but I'd guess that there are quite a few investors or at least people buying a unit as a vacation home. I guess we'll find out once we can see how many units have the lights on after the move-in date.

I have no idea, but would guess that there is a sizable investor presence in the project, unless the developer made a real effort to avoid selling to such interests... I wouldn't want to venture a guess with numbers though.


I wonder if the units are listed by the property appraiser's office yet?

I wonder if the units are listed by the property appraiser's office yet?

Hmm, I was under the impression that you have to close before that would happen. A few more months and we will have the names either way.

^ I believe the PA creates the parcels when the condominium papers are recorded, just like when a subdivision is recorded. Each condo owner has an interest in common property (such as the land the complex sits on or the pool), but they are legal parcels whose interest can be transferred, even if they are not developed and sold. Parcel and ownership information may not be available on the PA's internet site until the preliminary tax roll is submitted and approved by the Dept. of Revenue beginning July 1.

I was wondering if we coudl hear more about life right now ot GCK? Have there been many noticeable move ins? Any of the storefronts actually showing signs that someone bought in?

I was wondering if we coudl hear more about life right now ot GCK? Have there been many noticeable move ins? Any of the storefronts actually showing signs that someone bought in?

They have only closed on units on the lower floors along Kennedy so far other than just a few on the 12th floor (top) and are working there way down. This is estimated to take through the end of May to close the rest of the units.

The 2nd floor office space is 99% sold in the East building and about 65% sold in the West building. East building offices are closed and doing their build outs (Keller Williams Real Estate Firm, Pinnacle Financial, Doctors Office just to name a few).

Retail however will be quite some time. They signed reservations for several spaces this week, but won't be closing for 6-12 months on those and then of course they retailer must do thier build out, so I wouldn't expect retail to start opening until mid 2008.

Here are some renderings of Del Villar. From http://www.villagerealestate.blogspot.com/ I thought these would be of interest consideirng the rest of the present and possible future skyline is in there.

Also here is the blurb:
Here are some snaps of the Del Villar project Channelside and Kennedy...much better looking project than Grand Central Kennedy, also by the same developer. That detached yellow object is the mechanical garage, similar to what we heard from the guy at Four Green Fields. The developer explains that future owners of this project will be able to rent space out in this garage, any income generated would be used to lower their monthly HOA dues.

Thanks FF. The rendering of the skyline should all of these projects go vertical makes quite an impression. We'll just have to wait and see what happens.

I'm getting red X's, but the link is good, so thanks. Channelside looks pretty awesome in those future renders. Hopefully most of the projects come through...

The second picture is ridiculous. Area looks very dense!

Wow... first update from VRE in months. And a great update it is...

Thanks for linking us up.

VRE is a good source, for a blog, when it is operating. The pictures showed up at first, but then they changed to red X's.

Edit- VRE just told me that Del Villar was approved on April 12th, after I asked him about it. Check the "comments" section for the Del Villar entry.

Is Novare really going to demolish Newk's?

Is Novare really going to demolish Newk's?

Novare has, as far as I know, never had plans for the Newk's site. Related is allegedly involved to take over the project that was proposed several years ago for the Newk's site, though. That project would incorporate a new Newk's into the design and has the support of the restaurant's owners (or did back in 04/05 when this was proposed).

Novare has, as far as I know, never had plans for the Newk's site. Related is allegedly involved to take over the project that was proposed several years ago for the Newk's site, though. That project would incorporate a new Newk's into the design and has the support of the restaurant's owners (or did back in 04/05 when this was proposed).
OH my bad its SimDag!
They want to place this ontop of Newks
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/marshellbreath/City/preview_1.jpg

Hopefully Related is committed to that project... SimDag is obviously out of the question.

The design isn't very special, so it isn't exactly a loss.... but I'm interested in what becomes of it. The height is nice.

http://www.condoleaf.com/users/up/Del_Villar.jpg

To add more details from previous post, Del Villar article from Multi-Housing News.

April 16, 2007 - The Tampa City Council has granted initial approval to proceed with final design and documentation for a 33-story, mixed-use tower in the city’s Channel District. Urban Studio Architects, based in the city, will provide the design.

The project, which will be built to the standards of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program, will include 120 condos. Other firms involved in the project are Wilson Miller, a planning and engineering firm, and Mercury Advisors, both based in Tampa.

This innovative tower will overlook the Port of Tampa and the Florida Aquarium. It will include a three-story water wall, public plaza, motor court, and retail at street level. The Del Villar will have 6,000 square feet of two-story office space on its second floor, with a third-level amenities deck, including a pool, fitness center, and clubhouse.

The community will also include a 265-space robotic parking garage with an environmentally friendly green roof, the first of its kind in the Tampa area. The project will offer four two-bedroom units per floor, with a central service core, and an exterior facade design that maximizes energy-efficient building performance while providing a sleek artistic addition to the Tampa skyline.

OH my bad its SimDag!
They want to place this ontop of Newks
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/marshellbreath/City/preview_1.jpg

The Newkirks were partners in this, so SimDag isn't totally "to blame" here. So was the Newk's owners.

I really like Newk's building though!
Oh well...

The Newks project was doesn't feel right at that location anyway. The prices which are $600,000 to $4 million is way to expensive for that loaction. You can even see in the rendering it is surrounded by nothing in 3 directions. The other side is the forum, which can have rowdy and loud crowds. Other then the ugly base, it is a nice tower though.

Hopefully if/when someone else comes in control of this project they'll lower prices and increase the number of units.

Anyone know what spot this is going to occupy in the Channelside District? All I get from the release is overlooking the port and aquarium.... which could be almost anywhere over there :)

Is it a brand new project or just a redo/ renaming of an older project?

Sounds interesting.

Right next to the PA garage on Channelside Drive, irrc.

Anyone know what spot this is going to occupy in the Channelside District? All I get from the release is overlooking the port and aquarium.... which could be almost anywhere over there :)

Is it a brand new project or just a redo/ renaming of an older project?

Sounds interesting.

Welcome,

It is a new project and it is just North of the Channelside Parking Gargae. At the intersection of Channelside Dr. and East Whiting Street.

Wow. That was some quick response time. I appreciate the info.

What are some good sources (maps, websites, construction status) to keep up on this stuff besides here?

I just started digging into this forum and it's pretty extensive as a resource all it's own.

Keep up the good work!

^Honestly, this is probably the best single resource. We as a forum tend to scour local sources looking for the updates and post them here. The Tampa Government site can be a good, but often archaic resource (I would tell you more, but I honestly don't look at it very often). When it's active, Village Real Estate blog is really quite good. And Sticks of Fire, another blog, is nice for keeping up on non-development (and occasionally, some development) issues.

I'd love to give you links, but I just reset my browser and lost them. I'm sure someone else can post them, though.

Welcome, btw.

Grubbster, check out the stickied thread titled "Local Websites and online Resources" at the top of the Tampa/St. Pete forum for links to other sources. Although I agree with Maxim that this is the source that combines it all.

Wow. That was some quick response time. I appreciate the info.

What are some good sources (maps, websites, construction status) to keep up on this stuff besides here?

I just started digging into this forum and it's pretty extensive as a resource all it's own.

Keep up the good work!
This website is the largest in its category by several hundred percent over the next largest. Tampa is fortunate to have one of its co-founders live in the area.

Yes I agree, I come thru this forum daily to check out the current updates for Tampa,it's probably your best site for what youre looking for.

Before I noticed we had a forum on here I used emporis which is really inaccurate. But I got in the know here fo sho!

Found this little gem on Village Real Estate's blog - http://www.villagerealestate.blogspot.com/ - along with a couple others. Guess he's back after a break. :)

Here's a really interesting rendering of what the Channelside area could look like in a few years (view from the East, looking West) -

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l313/mbrechwald/ChannelFuture.jpg
Disregarding the CBD buildings, the new towers from left to right: the Towers of Channelside (U/C), the Seaboard Square towers (proposed), The Del Villar (in the foreground, proposed), Navio (in the background, proposed), Novare's tower (proposed), and the Place Phase II all the way on the right (proposed).

Who knows how many of these will ultimately get built, but gotta like the image nonetheless.

^Yo, I already found those and posted the link on the last page. ;)

They are very good renderings. Really gives you a feel for the area. And the fact of how Place Phase 1 will be hideously short and squat.

^yes, I don't think people understand just how badly Channelside would have flopped, had it been full of nothing but more projects like Place Phase I or the Meridian...(nothing against those projects, but a downtown full of them would have sucked)

I just hope the Place phase 2 actually gets built. With the way the condo market is going, I'd be surprised to see any big project break ground anytime soon...with the exception of Element or anything else Novare wants to do.

I just hope the Place phase 2 actually gets built. With the way the condo market is going, I'd be surprised to see any big project break ground anytime soon...with the exception of Element or anything else Novare wants to do.

I think you'll see The Slade, The Martin and Del Villar all this year (probably later rather than sooner). Slade has about 60% contracts so they are solid and Mercury (Martin/Del Villar) has very deep pockets and they want their money in play so they are ready when the market starts turning back in a couple 2-3 years, which is about how long it will take to build them.

Hi - any new news (real news) on when tower 2 will be closing for real and am i the only real tenant? Ha

Since they have your money, you should probably contact the developer (and report back here!). They are the only ones that know.

They've start demolition on one of the vacant warehouses that sits where the Slade will be constructed. A chain link fence has been up for about a week along their Washington Street border, and the building started coming down yesterday. Should be apparent from Meridian shortly.

It will be weird when it is all residential down there. I think by far that area has seen the biggest amount of change of any area in town over the past 10 years, especially the past 3/4 yrs. Channelside, the aquarium, new port buildings, condos, streetcar and Meridian St. It is completely different now.

Like FLHawk said, the Slade is moving forward ... looking from my window this morning, they've done quite a bit of teardown, though its still not evident from Meridian ... go down the side street (Washington?) and you'll definitely see they're tearing it down.

Walking to Channelside today, there are also public notice signs at the corner of Kennedy and Meridian (the corner that the Slade isn't using ... can't remember who bought it) stating that they're looking to change it from CD-1 to CD-3 designation for "residential condo and restaurants". The hearing is scheduled for 5/24, according to the sign.

Most interestingly today, there are people cleaning up the lot at Kennedy and 11th this morning/afternoon ... not doing much, but they removed the "Channelside Storage Coming Soon" sign, were picking up trash, and doing some other work. Maybe something happening there? I think Finergy have the rights to this parcel.

I'll keep everyone posted with Slade since its right outside my window. BTW, more and more people moving into Grand Central -- I'd say that probably 25-30 people now in and living here full time, with a few others using the place as a vacation home.

Walking to Channelside today, there are also public notice signs at the corner of Kennedy and Meridian (the corner that the Slade isn't using ... can't remember who bought it) stating that they're looking to change it from CD-1 to CD-3 designation for "residential condo and restaurants". The hearing is scheduled for 5/24, according to the sign.


Key Developers own that lot, the people behind the Place Phase 1 and 2.

BTW, more and more people moving into Grand Central -- I'd say that probably 25-30 people now in and living here full time, with a few others using the place as a vacation home.

Well that seems like better news... Can't wait for the pool party we are all invited to attend....

wishful thinking on my part!!! :cheers:

^^ :lol:

Sounds good to me, 212. ;)

Well that seems like better news... Can't wait for the pool party we are all invited to attend....

wishful thinking on my part!!! :cheers:

You're all invited ... just tell them Kentski sent you :lol:

Starting yesterday, there's been a lot of activity behind the BP station on Channelside. I stopped by today to ask what was going on. There's definitely a "Zelda's Cafe and Deli" going up in the old car wash (of all places!) and they've been working all through yesterday and today. According to the BP people, its supposed to open at the end of May. I can't tell for sure yet, but looks like they're (approximately) doubling the size of the building. Drive down Kennedy to Channelside and you'll see what I'm talking about.

Unless this place is terrible, I'll be there quite often -- have to support the first people that decided to open the first cafe/restaurant in the area.

But went to some open houses over here at Grand Central today and so did some neighbors. One of my neighbors (currently renting but looking to buy) was told by the realtors that the Disney Big Red Boats are taking over 2-3 of the terminals across the street for their cruises (we've already heard this before, but hasn't been verified) but also that they've "acquired a large parcel of land in front to open up a series of Disney-related restaurants and shops". Does anyone know anything about this? Pure speculation at this point, and this same realtor was telling my neighbor about the "five-star hotel going up" and we know that's wrong.

Anyway, an interesting new rumor/tidbit that hopefully we'll hear more about soon.

2-3 terminals? Is there enough space to allow Disney to operate on that scale while allowing the other three (prominent) lines to use Tampa?

Hmm. One of the terminals is looking a bit shabby, so maybe it'll reconstructed for Disney's use. It could only be a good news... as long as this doesn't mean other lines are abandoning Tampa.

2-3 terminals? Is there enough space to allow Disney to operate on that scale while allowing the other three (prominent) lines to use Tampa?


I've actually seen four cruise lines over here (primarily Carnival, but also Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Holland) but never more than two ships in port at one time (yesterday and today, only one Carnival ship on each day) ... so it's possible that they could "renovate" the terminal nearest Ybor and add a fourth station.

Again, however, this is all still speculation until we hear something further. Just want to see/hear what anyone else has heard.

Disney coming into Tampa wouldn't surprise me at all. They originally considered Tampa for their Wonder and Magic ships, but chose Port Canaveral for strategic reasons.

About a month ago, they announced that they have commissioned two new ships, which will be approx. 50-60% larger than the Wonder and Magic.

If the rumor is true, they're probably looking to use Tampa as the port for Western Caribbean/Mexico sailings.

I've been on one of the Disney cruises and they definitely do everything right on... Having them here in Tampa would be a big, very big plus for the Channel District (especially from the wealthy demographics of their target market, which most of the other lines in Tampa don't currently enjoy on the same scale).






I've actually seen four cruise lines over here (primarily Carnival, but also Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Holland) but never more than two ships in port at one time (yesterday and today, only one Carnival ship on each day) ... so it's possible that they could "renovate" the terminal nearest Ybor and add a fourth station.

Again, however, this is all still speculation until we hear something further. Just want to see/hear what anyone else has heard.

So the Harbour Island tower has been topped off sometime and looking pretty neat from the St. Pete Times Forum. Also the ground where the History Museum will be located is all torn up and ground work is underway. Didn't get to see the rest of Channelside though since my sister was..well... lets say that she saw her lunch for a second time today. :D

A lot has happened in the past few days:

1 - It looks like the first warehouse on the Slade lot has been completely taken down ... those driving down Meridian should now be able to see that empty space. Got an email from Slade yesterday that they're now under 55% hard contracts; if that's the case, I think its almost certain this is going up.

2 - The Ventana pool/spa deck is complete, and the pool is full with water. Looks very sharp ... in addition, two of the three sidewalks around the building are open today (the only one that's not is Channelside).

3 - The concrete pillars in front of Grand Central have been removed this afternoon and workers are prepping the road to open back up, so Kennedy should have two more lanes soon. I asked one of the guys sweeping the road when its going to open up and he said tomorrow or Friday, so this should be quick.

4 - Grand Central's first building has now closed about 70-75 of the condos (out of 180 or so total, but remember, much of the Ybor-facing side hasn't opened up yet). Of the 70-75, about 20-25 are back on the market for resell or for rental. Of the 50 or so remaining, about 25 are used for a second home or vacant for some other reason. That means about 25 have people here right now, and you can definitely tell that there is more activity now. I'd say probably 30 to 40 permanent residents so far -- not bad, considering the first people moved in in mid-March.

I've heard crap about Disney coming to Tampa for years.

I don't buy any of it, even though it sounds like a great development for DT if it actually occurred.


(btw, from what I understand, this would almost verge on being impractical for the port, because of the longstanding issue with the main channel being too narrow for other vessels to pass a cruise ship.)

Just looked out back and they've started pouring concrete at the front on Twiggs ... lots of pillars up, so this project is well on track. And, as someone mentioned earlier, the back part of the apartments are right on top of the Expressway ... hope they're soundproofed well.

The second building on the Slade property is coming down today as well ...

^Soundproofed and well damped. I would think that the vibration from traffic could be a minor issue in time.

Does anyone know the construction status of The Place and Ventana firsthand? The developer's websites are vague in details. Thanks.

Ventana looks really close - landscaping, fixtures are installed on the street level. Place isn't far behind... still some exterior painting to be done (as of yesterday).

In the very near future....

Got briefed today on the Slade project at work (which marks the 3rd DT project that I am involved with). Very nice little project...

While I can't really talk specifics about the project (certainly not 'on the public record' so to speak), I will say that in my opinion, the Slade is all but a certainty to break ground this year.

Hopefully the Martin or Place II will hit their numbers later this year, though my sentiment is the same now as it was in January... Not that many projects are breaking ground this year DT. There's simply too much discounting going on elsewhere, and not enough wiggle room in the numbers for these DT projects to drastically outperform a soft, methodical market. I think the best sales tool at this point will be in how well the existing projects nearing completion fare. If there is good word of mouth, 2nd phase projects could pop quickly. But if the reputation is bad or lukewarm, it could take forever.

Well either way I would love to see only a few projects pop up and have all of them full than having a ton of them and having them being empty to half full.

I'd like them to be half full... then I could buy a few. :)

Yeah well that too.

They've got the foundation down at the Seaport apartments for two of the buildings, and it looks like they'll be up to the second floor for the middle building very soon, probably by mid-week. They're going up pretty fast, so I could definitely see some move-ins there by the end of the year.

The first six floors of Grand Central at Kennedy West look almost complete ... I can see through the windows of some, and they're laying the hardwood and carpets today, so those should probably be open in the next month.

http://img108.imageshack.us/img108/8568/theplace3streetview2wx1.th.jpg (http://img108.imageshack.us/my.php?image=theplace3streetview2wx1.jpg)
http://img108.imageshack.us/img108/1926/theplace3gq5.th.jpg (http://img108.imageshack.us/my.php?image=theplace3gq5.jpg)

I've heard of several cases recently where speculators are not taking ownership of their units..in fact walking away from their deposits. I'm sure this isn't that abnormal for a project this size but none the less there has to be good reason to walk away from tens of thousands of dollars.

Odds are they have already speculated on ohter property and are hurting so bad that they need to cut their losses. Taking up more property is most likely beyond them now.

The real estate bubble ist kaput.

While more work for the developer, it's a profitable game. They get to keep the deposit and then sell the unit at market rate. They could even discount a bit and still make out well ahead (since they were already making money at the contract price, anything beyond that is going to be money in the bank plus the 10% deposit).

The Place Phase III? I think we're all still waiting for Phase II to break ground. :lol:

Where would Phase III be located, bueller?

Anyone want to take bets on The Place IV?