Tampa Bay Construction and Development News

Jury Selects Winner In St Pete Pier Design Competition

2012-01-21T11:44:00.002-05:00

The jury has picked Los Angeles architect Michael Maltzan as the winner of the design competition for the new Pier. A jury of three architects and two elected officials unanimously selected the design called Lens, which featres looping bridges, a reef, a dock and tiara-styled canopy. St. Petersburg City Council will discuss meet on January 26th to discuss the project and then vote to either approve or reject the project during its meeting on February 2nd.

Baystar Plans Clearwater Beach Marina Restaurant.

2012-01-18T15:20:00.002-05:00

Baystar Restaurant Group, made up of the popular Salt Rock Grill, Island Way Grill, and Rumba Island Bar & Grill has plans to open a restaurant at the Clearwater municipal marina in Clearwater Beach, called Marina Cantina. The restaurant would be located on the upper level overlooking the marina. Salt Rock Grill will also be converting it's Salty Seas Bar into a craft beer room, and may possilbe brew it's own beer.

Biltmore Owners Apply For Demolition Permit

2012-01-13T10:18:00.002-05:00

On Jan. 6, the owners of the Belleview Biltmore filed papers with town of Belleair to demolish the ailing hotel cottages. The original entrance to the hotel would be spared, and turned into a museum with a replica of the beloved ice cream parlor. The application must be reviewed by the town, the preservation board, and town commission and a ruling isn't expected for months. After which further reviews will be required regarding the proposed developement of the site. The current plan to build at least 80 townhouses on the site and perhaps some condos. The estimated cost of the demolition is $15 million and is not expected to begin for at least a year. The Save the Biltmore Preservationists group is opposed to the demolition and has launched campaign to get those opposed to attend the January 17th commission meeting.

Tierra Verde Hotel May Be On The Horizon

2011-03-12T10:51:00.005-05:00

After purchasing the Tierra Verde Marina Resort, the investment group said that they would be expanding the marina and storage facilities and building a restaurant. Now there are plans for 100 room hotel as well. Developers attended a community association meeting last week with residents who mostly seemed pleased with their plans for the 10 acre property, which consists of a marina, high and dry racks, restaurant, and timeshare hotel.

The investment group plans to upgrade the existing storage facility, increasing the capacity from 250 to 450 racks. It will also build and lease a 10,000-square foot restaurant and build a 100 room hotel. Plans will have to be approved by Pinellas County because the property is part of the 18 acres annexed by St Petersburg and must conform to county development rules.

Belleview Biltmore Future Still Uncertain

2011-03-12T09:16:00.004-05:00

The Belleview Biltmore was purchased months ago, but there's still no indication of what will become of the property. The new owners aren't rushing to sell or develop the property, and anything is possible - including saving the historic hotel. They are currently analyzing the costs of maintaining the hotel long term while looking for a development partner or buyer. Current plans involve marketing all of the hotel's properties as a package to potential buyers or developers, including the golf club and the Cabana Club on Sand Key.

Questions arose though, after internet real estate listings were found that listed the hotel, golf club and Cabana Club separately. This listings were posted on commercial real estate webiste Loopnet, by Florida Growth Realty. They listed Betsey Lurie as the contact person, and the listings said they were verified on January 11th 2011. The current owner says they know nothing about the listings and do not have immediate plans to sell the properties. The listings have since been changed, removing Florida Growth Realty as broker, and list Betsey Lurie as the broker. As of March 12, her real estate license in inactive.

After some digging, it appears this is not the first time Florida Growth Realty has been involved in questionable property ads. The St Pete Times ran a story last year about the Seminole Mall that referenced a false property advertisement. According to Robert Lurie, broker for Florida Growth Realty, his secretary accidentally posted the property listing on the internet. Other internet complaints were found as well.

Meanwhile, residents are breathing easier for the time being. Some Sand Key residents opposed the previous owner's plan for a beachfront hotel on the Biltmore's Cabana Club property. The current owners do not have any plans to develop the property for now. And there is a glimmer of hope for Belleair residents who fought for preservation of the Belleview Biltmore. The new owners have met with a historic property developer.

Ocean Glen Project Demolished

2011-03-12T08:12:00.000-05:00

Indian Rocks Beach "Stonehenge", as it is called by locals, has fallen. The concrete structure on Gulf Blvd in Indian Rocks Beach was bulldozed by the city after years of abandonment. Ocean Glen at Waterside was scheduled to be a high rise condo, but construction stopped during the economic downturn. The developer still owns the property and a new project is possible, but unlikely. The current agreement with the city expires in October. Now that the structure is gone, the lot will be reseeded and the fencing will be repaired.

Tierra Verde Resort & Marina Purchased By Investors

2011-01-23T11:32:00.001-05:00

An investment group has purchased the Tierra Verde Resort. The 50-year-old property features boat slips, a restaurant, and the former Tierra Verde Yacht & Tennis Resort timeshare and hotel buildings.

The marina portion features 114 wet slips and 151 high-and-dry slips. The new marina business model will focus exclusively on rentals. The group rebranded the facility as the Tierra Verde Marina Resort.

The investors plan to demolish the existing structures, except for the high-and-dry building. It then plans to develop a second 151-slip high-and-dry building and a 10,000-square-foot restaurant building.

The investor group already owns four marinas on the Gulf Coast and hopes to acquire several more in the region in the near future.

Sea Captain Resort Gets OK To Rebuild

2011-01-22T13:47:00.004-05:00

Say goodbye to another 50's era beach side landmark. The owner of the Sea Captain motel on Devon Drive is tearing down the outdated hotel to replace it with a bigger modern one. The site is next door to the former Port Vue hotel, which is being replaced with a Holiday Inn.

The new hotel will have 85 rooms, fitness center, conference and banquet rooms, rooftop sundeck, and 93 space parking garage.

Indian Rocks Beach Will Remove Abandoned Condo Project

2011-01-22T12:16:00.001-05:00

The city of Indian Rocks Beach will raze the abandoned Ocean Glen at Waterside condo project located at 601 Gulf Blvd. Removal of the partially completed construction will begin this month, and the lot will be reseeded in the spring.

The city reached an agreement with the owner for the demolition. The city holds $24k in escrowed funds from the owner and will reimburse itself $2,700 for mowing fees and upkeep. The estimated cost of the entire project is $24,150. The owner remains responsible for any additional cost. Construction may begin again under the original PUD agreement, however the agreement expires this October.

Last year, the Indian Rocks Beach city manager issued a demand letter to the project manager of Ocean Glen asking that, “The structure’s verticals and slab be torn down and that the property be returned to a neutral state.” The condo project has been stalled for years and has been called “Stonehenge" by residents.

Hooter's At John's Pass Village Nearing Completion

2011-01-07T13:46:00.002-05:00

A new Hooter's restaurant will be opening at John's Pass Village. The new location will occupy 6k square feet on the 3rd level of the popular boardwalk attraction, between the Friendly Fisherman and Bubba Gump Shrimp Company restaurants. Indoor and outdoor seating will be available. A February opening is planned.

Belleview Biltmore Sold To KAWA Development

2011-01-07T11:35:00.003-05:00

After months of rumors, it's official- the Belleview Biltmore is now owned by KAWA Development. The investment group consists of brothers Raphael and Daniel Ades, and another partner. The group purchased the mortgage on the property for $8 million, and now control the hotel, as well as the golf course and Cabana Club in Sand Key.

According to Raphael Ades, they will focus first on paying bills and keeping the golf course in operation and later decide what to do with the hotel. Legg Mason (now Latitude Management Real Estate Investors) mortgaged the property for $26.8 million with intentions to restore the hotel.

The future of the property is still unclear. In October, Ades said his group was primarily interested in the golf course and had plans to upgrade the 136-acre golf course. In November, Senior Care Group said it was negotiating with the investors to possibly restore the Biltmore and convert it into an assisted living facility. Ades has recently said they may separate the properties or find another party interested the properties as a whole.

Clearwater Beach Sea Captain Motel May Be Replaced

2011-01-07T10:43:00.000-05:00

The Sea Captain motel on Devon may be replaced if the city approves. The owner would like to replace the 27 room motel with an 85 room hotel. The proposal will be reviewed on January 13th. The site is just a few feet away from the site where the former Port Vue hotel is being replaced by a Holiday Inn.

Ocean Properties LTD Buys Sandpearl Interest

2011-01-07T10:13:00.006-05:00

Ocean Properties LTD, owner of the former Adam's Mark hotel site on Clearwater Beach, has purchased a controlling interest in The Sandpearl Resort, a luxury hotel and condo residence. While Ocean Properties LTD will be the managing partner, the Sandpearl name and day to day operations will not change.

Ocean Properties owns and manages over 100 hotels, many in South Florida and the Keys. The own 2 local properties including the Treasure Island Residence Inn. The purchase will likely be reassuring to local officials, indicating that Ocean Properties has continued interest in Clearwater Beach, and the developement of the vacant beachfront lot is on the horizon. Ocean Properties purchased the Adam's Mark site in 2007 with plans for a 230 room hotel before the market tanked.

Photo Credit:PropCo Real Estate

Hi Speed Rail Line Work Begins

2010-09-26T10:50:00.004-04:00

Engineers have begun testing the soil along I-4 between Tampa and Orlando to prepare the ground for the high speed tracks in 2012. Workers are also surveying, doing real estate estimates, appraisals and property searches. The state owns 93% of the land needed, the other 7% will need to be acquired through willing sellers or eminent domain. Most of the land is located along the I-4 corridor.

Florida is slated to receive $1.25 billion in stimulus funds for the project and additional federal funds were promised in the future. Construction of the project will add 5,000 jobs each year, with 11,000 jobs at the height of construction. A future link between Orlando and Miami is in the planning stages.

When complete in 2015, it will become the first true high speed rail line in the country that runs on its own dedicated tracks. It will take less than 1 hour to ride between Tampa and Orlando. An estimated 2 million passengers will ride each year. There are 5 planned stops: Downtown at the Old Morgan St. jail, Polk County, Walt Disney World (Disney donated the land for the stop), the Orlando Convention Center and the Orlando International airport. There are no plans for a stop at Tampa International Airport, because it is already part of the proposed light rail plan.

Clearwater Beach Knights Inn To Become Boutique Hotel

2010-09-26T10:05:00.002-04:00

The vacant Knight’s Inn on South Gulfview Blvd in Clearwater Beach will be replaced with an all suite hotel in 2011. The name of the hotel has not yet been determined. Construction is expected to begin in early 2011 and completed by year end. There will be 45 units approximately 600 square foot each.

The property was purchased in 2009 for $3.8 million, and renovations are estimated at $2 million. A construction loan has been secured by Southwind Hospitality, owner of the Quality Inn Beach Resort located across the street. Guests of the new hotel will have access to the Quality Inn pool and beach access, and guest of the Quality Inn will have access to the new hotel's fitness center.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony For New Boat Slips

2010-08-26T11:28:00.000-04:00

The City of Clearwater will hold a Grand Opening Celebration for the new Downtown Boat Slips 9 A.M. September 2nd, at 210 Drew St. The event will include speeches by city officials and representatives from the agencies that have worked to ensure the success of the project. Refreshments will be served.

Clearwater voters signed off on the project in a 2007 city referendum. The completed facility includes 126 boat slips, 1,700 feet of overnight space for visitors, 700 feet of space for daytime visits and special events that are happening in the downtown area. The daytime space is free. The boat slip lengths range in size from 30 to 55 feet. Slips are available to anyone that is interested. There are slips currently available and boats must fit within the area of the slip.

Slip Rates:
Resident: $9 per foot length of the slip
Non-resident: $10.50 per foot length of the slip

The boat slips facility will include 24-hour security, restrooms and showers, convenient parking, laundry facilities, electricity and a pump-out service.

For more information or if you are interested in renting a slip, call the Clearwater Municipal Marina at 462-6954.

Indian Rocks Beach Wants Ocean Glen Project Removed

2010-08-26T09:49:00.001-04:00

The Indian Rocks Beach city manager has issued a demand letter to the project manager of the Ocean Glen at Waterside condominium construction project asking that, “The structure’s verticals and slab be torn down and that the property be returned to a neutral state.” The residential condo project is located at 7th Ave and Gulf Boulevard on the site of a former RV park. The project has been stalled for years and has been called the beach “Stonehenge" by residents.

Water’s Edge Luxury Condos Grand Re-Opening

2010-08-18T08:27:00.000-04:00

Despite concerns of a still-weak real estate market, the grand re-opening of Water’s Edge on Thursday, July 29th marked history in the Tampa Bay and Gulf Coast area. The offering of luxury condominium homes at up-to-50-percent-off original listing prices was a success. The pricing structure was intended to sell units quickly and is working. Water’s Edge has already sold enough condominiums to pay off its acquisition loan and eliminate the financial risk to their investors. There are still residences available such as no. 901 that originally went for $634,800 now sells for $304,900.

The momentum generated by the grand re-opening is being looked at by City Fathers as the residential jump-start for Downtown Clearwater’s revival. Maxwell Drever, chairman of Concierge Asset Management, who is known for his long career of gentrifying and rejuvenating communities through smart buying, hopes to have Water’s Edge lit up like a Christmas tree with residents come December instead of its former ghost-tower past.

Concierge remains committed to Drever’s original purpose of buying at fair market value and passing the savings along to future buyers, allowing Water’s Edge purchasers to take advantage of “landmark living” despite the country’s recent economic hardship.

“The market determines the price, which is something we understand,” said Grant Wood of Stingray Asset Management, the company managing the sale of the Offered Units.

Water’s Edge offers a stunning view of the Intercoastal waterway and the Gulf of Mexico. In fact, 85% of the units in Water’s Edge have water vistas. The building’s easy access to Clearwater Beach, adjacent municipal marina, first-class luxury amenities and a City committed to growth made this property a prime location for Drever and his team.

Mayor Hibbard who spoke at the event said, “What [does] Apple, Microsoft and Water’s Edge all have in common? Answer: They are all opportunities that you would have wanted in on, on the ground floor.”

Water’s Edge, the tallest building in Downtown Clearwater, will no longer stand as a giant reminder of economic hard times, but strong and mighty as a symbol of rebirth. The luxury way of life was simulated by Robb & Stucky Interiors, Neiman Marcus, Galati Yachts, Dew Automotives, June’s Orchid Estate and Menaul Fine Art who all participated in the classic event.

About Concierge Asset Management:
Concierge Asset Management, headquartered in Houston, TX, is a value-added, vertically integrated real estate investment company. Together with its institutional partners, Concierge acquires, repositions and manages large luxury condominium communities and apartment communities. Concierge is often “buyer of choice” for lenders/ sellers of challenged non-performing loans (NPLs) or foreclosed properties due to its expertise in providing both post and pre-closing cost-effective solutions for problems in their portfolios of multi-family and other types of investment properties. Concierge’s founder-chairman, Maxwell Drever, president and chief executive officer Ted Kerr and their teammates, many with decades of service with Concierge, are also recognized for their social and environmentally conscious property and community transformations. Currently, Concierge is investing nationwide in properties and/or their NPLs.

Clearwater Beach Hyatt Regency Lawsuits

2010-08-08T08:42:00.000-04:00

The long awaited Hyatt resort opened earlier this year with better than expected occupancy. According to Hyatt, it was one of their strongest openings ever. They are sold out on most weekends and have sold out the entire months of March and April 2011.

Not everyone is happy though. The Aqualea resort is a mixed use property with 250 condo hotel units and 18 residences for sale. At least 7 lawsuits have been filed against Crystal Beach Capital, the resorts owner, seeking to void sales contacts and requesting the return of deposits ranging from $115,000 to $1.2 million. One of the 7 lawsuits involves a contract for one of the larger residences, priced near $3 million. Most of the suits claim contracts were breached because the developer took to long to complete the project - 2 years too long.

To date, 5 sales have closed and 55 of the condo-hotel units are under contract.
The developer has cited the economy as one of the reasons for the delay and is trying to work with some of the disgruntled buyers to obtain financing. When the economy recovers and more financing is available, sales are expected to accelerate dramatically.

The condos were supposed to be complete by Dec. 31, 2007, but were not ready until about two years later. In a case involving a $900k deposit, Crystal Beach replied that the "outside date" in the contract is "only an estimate" and the seller is not obligated to finish by then. In another case, "there was no obligation" to complete the condominium "by any date."

Even some buyers of the units that have closed are angry. Closings on the condo-hotel units didn't begin until 4 months after the resort opened. At least one buyer claims it was delayed so the hotel could rent their unit during peak season to make money. The developer contends that a large amount of documentation had to be submitted after the construction was completed.

Tampa Bay Selected To Host 2012 GOP Convention

2010-05-30T09:46:00.003-04:00

Members of the Republican National Committee unanimously selected Tampa Bay to host the 2012 Republican Convention, a week-long event expected to attract over 50,000 party delegates, politicians, protesters and news media to the Bay area.

The convention will take place the week of Aug. 27, 2012, at multiple venues including the St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa Convention Center and Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg.

The city lost its 2004 bid to New York, and in 2008 lost its bid to Minneapolis.
Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan, a member of the host committee who was also involved in the unsuccessful bids, called the convention a "historic day for Tampa Bay" and "the single largest non-sporting event we have ever hosted". The last time the event was held in Florida was 1972, when both Republican and Democratic conventions were held in Miami.

The event will be a big boost to the local economy, providing jobs and filling hotel rooms and restaurants.

Clearwater Beach Parking Garage Deal Approved

2010-02-26T11:40:00.003-05:00

February 18th- Clearwater City Council unanimously approved a development agreement with L.O.M. Inc. to build a parking garage. It will be located on Coronado Drive, next to the newly opened Hyatt Regency Resort. The 300 spaces will replace the ones that were lost to the BeachWalk project. The site is currently occupied by Britt’s Laguna Grill and Surf Style, who will occupy the ground level of the new facility. Construction is expected to start by the end of September.

Patel Property Up For Sale In Clearwater Beach

2010-02-24T08:59:00.007-05:00

The vacant 2.9 acre lot at Coronado and S. Gulfview, next to the new Hyatt is up for sale. The property is owned by Tampa businessman and philanthropist Kiran Patel. Patel paid $40 million for the prime land 6 years ago, one of Pinellas County's most expensive land sale price. Todays asking price - $30 million.

Patel and partner Miami based Related Group originally planned to build a 15-story two tower megaresort of 450 condos and hotel suites overlooking BeachWalk and Clearwater Beach. A number of hotels were razed to make way for the project. The implosion of the Spyglass Resort was aired on live national TV when illusionist Chris Angel performed an escape just before it crumbled.

In 2008 Patel was granted an extension by the city to delay construction until 2011. Another extension for the property could be denied, meaning the new buyer might need to start building right away unless another deal is struck with the city. The site is currently used by the city for beach parking. As part of the extension agreement, 200 parking spaces were built with $150,000 from Patel.

Fenway Hotel Developer May Face Foreclosure

2010-02-14T09:33:00.002-05:00

RBC Bank filed a lawsuit Friday against George Rahdert and two of his companies who have yet to repay over $8 million in loans and interest. Rahdert was renovating the Fenway Hotel in Dunedin, planning on re-opening the historic waterfront hotel as a high end Jazz age retreat. Rahdert purchased the 6.4 acre property on Edgewater Drive in 2006. Last year a deal to sell it to Robert Masson fell through and Rahdert has filed a lawsuit against him. Rahdert may be hoping news of the foreclosure suit will lead to a new investor. Several local businessmen have expressed interest in the property.

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

2010-02-01T13:54:00.000-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa Opens
CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa opened, bringing a new level of luxury and service to Florida’s West coast. Now through April 30, travelers who reserve a stay with offer code CBINTR will be some of the first guests to experience the resort at a special grand opening rate of 15 percent off the Hyatt Daily Rate plus a $50 daily resort credit per stay.

“Best City Beach on the Gulf of Mexico”

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa is the centerpiece of Beach Walk - a $30 million revitalization project along a half-mile active pathway with shopping, dining and entertainment. Inspired by a classic yet contemporary West Indies style, accommodations consist of 250 deluxe, one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, giving guests the flexibility to prepare their own meals in a spacious atmosphere. All suites feature private balconies overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

Amenities include the full-service, eco-friendly Sandava Spa, the 24-hour StayFit@Hyatt gym, a Camp Hyatt kids program, an activity-filled promenade, 32,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor function space, an eighth floor pool deck with 20 air-conditioned poolside cabanas and a children’s pool, and a relaxing pool and hot tub on the 16th floor Sky Terrace. Three dining options are available including, SHOR, an American seafood grill featuring a dramatic show kitchen; Swim, offering Pan-Latin fusion dishes poolside along with a selection of frozen tropical cocktails; and Skimmers lobby bar.

“Clearwater Beach is the quintessential Florida beach town, and we are ready to add luxury to the landscape just in time for high season,” said Brian Kramer, general manager. “The area has so much to offer, and Hyatt is proud to be an integral part of its transformation into one of Florida’s top vacation destinations.”

For more information, reservations, and full terms and conditions, please visit http://clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com or call 1-800-233-1234. For the latest news and information, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hyattclearwater or follow on Twitter @HyattClearwater.

About Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa features 250 guest suites that blend tropical elegance with a luxurious carefree experience on Florida’s West coast. Breathtaking Gulf views provide the backdrop for expansive floor plans ranging from deluxe to one- and two-bedroom beach suites. Each suite features a full kitchen and balconies or rooftop terraces. Guests can enjoy a variety of upscale amenities such as a resort swimming pool deck with 20 air-conditioned poolside cabanas and a children’s pool area, a spa pool area on the 16th floor and multiple dining options, including the resort’s signature seafood grill, SHOR. Other amenities include the eco-friendly Sandava Spa and Camp Hyatt kids club, along with 12,000 square feet of indoor and 20,000 square feet of outdoor function space for premier beachside events. http://clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com

About Clearwater Beach

Located less than 25 miles from Tampa International Airport on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Clearwater Beach is a family-friendly destination with boundless recreational and outdoor activities including fishing, golfing, hiking and more. In 2009, Clearwater Beach was named one of the top beaches for families on the East Coast. Consistently recognized for its beauty, Clearwater Beach has been named “Best City Beach on the Gulf of Mexico” by well-known travel publications. Clearwater Beach is conveniently located within driving distance of notable museums and cultural activities in St. Petersburg as well as the renowned theme parks and attractions in nearby Orlando. For more information, visit www.FloridasBeach.com.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company with a proud heritage of making guests feel more than welcome. Thousands of members of the Hyatt family in 45 countries strive to make a difference in the lives of the guests they encounter every day by providing authentic hospitality. The company’s subsidiaries manage, franchise, own and develop hotels and resorts under the Hyatt®, Park Hyatt®, Andaz®, Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt Place® and Hyatt Summerfield Suites™ brand names and have locations under development on five continents. Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Inc., a Hyatt Hotels Corporation subsidiary, develops and operates vacation ownership properties under the Hyatt Vacation Club® brand. As of December 31, 2009, the company’s worldwide portfolio consisted of 424 properties. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.

Clearwater Beach Hyatt Opens Monday

2010-01-30T10:13:00.005-05:00

After years of construction, the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa opens Monday February 1st. The upscale hotel and spa has 250 suites have kitchens and private balconies overlooking the Gulf on Beach Walk.

Resort amenities include the eco-friendly spa, a 24-hour StayFit@Hyatt gym, the Camp Hyatt kids program, indoor and outdoor function space, an 8th floor pool deck with air conditioned poolside cabanas and a children’s pool, as well as a pool and hot tub on the 16th floor Sky Terrace, WiFi, and of course a Starbucks Coffee.

The resort features a private beach club open to locals, residents and guests alike (memberships from daily to year-long are available), and the Shore Restaurant seafood grill will feature an open kitchen and 220 seats. In addition to a dynamic pool surrounded by two-room suite-style cabanas (perfect for day-long parties), there will also be a private hot tub on the 16th floor available for private parties.

Also located at the Hyatt are the Aqualea Residences private luxury condos.

Tampa - Orlando High Speed Rail Project Gets $1.25 Billion

2010-01-28T09:29:00.001-05:00

Florida is getting $1.25 billion for a high-speed rail line that would connect Tampa and Orlando. President Obama will announcement at a town hall meeting at the University of Tampa today that Florida will receive $1.25 billion for the high speed rail project that would connect Tampa and Orlando.

From the White House Office of the Press Secretary:

President Obama and Vice President Biden will announce $8 billion in Recovery Act grants to develop America's first nationwide program of high-speed intercity passenger rail service. At an event in Florida, they will announce the awards which will go toward developing or laying the groundwork for 13 new, large-scale high-speed rail corridors across the country. The major corridors are part of a total of 31 states receiving investments, including smaller projects and planning work that will help lay the groundwork for future high-speed intercity rail service.

Transportation planners voted last year to approve a plan that would build a light rail and express bus service around Tampa Bay. The plan includes more than 100 miles of light rail lines and more than 400 miles of bus service by 2035. It would continue to grow by the year 2050, ultimately connecting seven counties and 43 cities.

Upcoming Pinellas County Beach Projects

2010-01-12T09:44:00.000-05:00

Pinellas County Commissioners unanimously approved on Jan. 5 amendments to two beach renourishment contracts.

Amendment No. 1 to the Treasure Island beach renourishment grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection increases the state share of the project from $400,000 to $700,000. The project is scheduled to begin in late spring 2010.

Amendment No. 2 to the FDEP contract for the Sand Key renourishment project increases the state share of costs from $333,320 to $3.9 million. Construction is set to begin between November 2010 and February 2011.

The Treasure Island project will be constructed in conjunction with the Upham Beach renourishment project and will be administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The estimated cost of $3.5 million for the project will be cost-shared, 60 percent federal government, 20 percent state and 20 percent county. The $20 million estimated cost for the Sand Key project will be paid for with the same cost-sharing formula.

History of the Treasure Island project shows that the beach has “two erosional hot spots:” One on the north end and along the southern two-thirds of the island.

Treasure Island was the first federal project to be constructed on the west coast of Florida in 1969. The beaches have been restored 14 times. Treasure Island was last restored in 2006.

Project plans call for sediment to be dredged from John’s Pass and pumped onto the beaches. The project will renourish a total of 1.4 miles of shoreline encompassing two areas: One in north Treasure Island and the other further south along Sunset Beach.

Officials estimate that construction of both areas will take less than four months.

The Sand Key project is 9 miles long and extends from the Sand Key portion of Clearwater south to North Redington Beach, according to staff notes.

The project history shows the area was first renourished as a single unit in 1998. Prior to that time, individual communities, such as Indian Rocks Beach, Redington Shores and others, were nourished separately.

The 2005-06 Sand Key project was the most expensive beach renourishment project in the history of the Jacksonville District U.S. Army Corp of Engineers at $45 million. The high cost was mainly attributed to fuel costs from barging sand from the Egmont Key Channel borrow area to the beach.

Officials are trying to reduce the cost of the 2010-11 project by contracting Coastal Planning Engineering Inc. to do a sand search for new borrow areas several miles offshore Sand Key.

New Clearwater Marina Gets Approval

2009-11-25T10:43:00.001-05:00

The current owner of the former Clearwater Bay Marina at 900 N Osceola Ave, just north of the Seminole boat ramp, has received approval from the Community Development Board to build new marina. The Clearwater Basin Marina will have 87 recreational slips, there will be no commercial boats or personal watercraft slips available.

The site currently has about 100 concrete pilings that are the remnants of a luxury condo building that was scrapped. Local residents call it "Stonehenge". The owner isn't planning to build any condos right now, but could in the future. The pilings cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to construct and will not be removed. Instead, they will be hidden with landscaping and fencing, possibly to use for future development.

New Hotels Approved For Clearwater Beach

2009-11-20T10:44:00.000-05:00

The Clearwater Community Development Board has approved new hotel projects on Clearwater Beach. They will also require the City Council's approval as well because they're seeking more than their allotted number of rooms.

Tropicana Resort Motels, headed by developer Gus DiGiovanni, received approval to build 2 hotels between Hamden and Coronado south of Third Street. The properties are currently occupied by a number of buildings including the Sandman Resort, Sea Cove Motel and Alex Family Restaurant. One hotel will hae 142 rooms, the other will have 118 rooms.

Shephard's Beach Resort was given approval for a major expansion. The hotel and entertainment complex will add nearly 100 rooms. One of the existing buildings will be torn down to construct a new one.

Madeira Beach May Allow Higher Density

2009-11-03T20:03:00.000-05:00

The proposal is an effort to boost tourism which creates jobs, supports businesses and generates sales tax and other revenue for local governments. Many Madeira Beach businesses, like those at John’s Pass Village, depend greatly on tourism.

City officials have come up with a plan to increase densities in area zoned for tourist accommodations to 100 units per acre for parcels up to 3 acres and 125 units for larger parcels. The proposal is similar to the "Beach by Design Plan" in Clearwater Beach, which has brought new major hotel developments to Clearwater Beach.

Higher densities may also allow hotels and motels to have restaurants on their properties, which are few and far between on the beach side of Gulf Blvd.

Failed Redington Shores Condo Becomes Hotel

2009-10-25T12:10:00.000-04:00

A hotel, a condo, a hotel again. Benjamin Mallah purchased the Hotel Isis in June and has returned the property back to its original status as a hotel. The previous owners intended to sell the former Marlin Hotel as condo resort, but the project failed.

40 non smoking rooms feature granite countertops, flat-screen TVs, and WiFi.
Room prices currently range from $89 to $199 per night. For more information, call 397-4747 or go to www.isisbeachhotel.com.

Music Producer Buys Treasure Island Tennis & Yacht Club

2009-10-23T11:59:00.000-04:00

Treasure Island resident and music producer Bill Edwards has purchased the Treasure Island Tennis & Yacht Club, which has about 700 members. In 2008, the yacht club completed a $7.1 million expansion that adding 30,000 square feet to hold social events and accommodate its growing membership.Seven months later, the club filed for bankruptcy. Edwards bought the bankrupt club for cash. At the time, there was an outstanding mortgage of $8.6M.

After an interior and exterior makeover, Edwards plans to offer Las Vegas-style entertainment, top chefs and amenities at the newly renamed "The Club at Treasure Island". Initial club memberships sell for $250 (seniors), $900 (single or couple), $1,250 (family of four) or $2,250 (corporate) initially and between $100 and $250 a month thereafter. Members will have use of the clubhouse, fitness center, game room, tennis facilities, pool pavilion, and receive special concierge services, including anytime medical services and special pricing for fitness and beauty services and cruises.

Edwards will use his entertainment business connections to draw big name acts to The Club. Edwards operates Big3 Entertainment and Bill Edwards Presents — recording, touring and promotional companies that represent such stars as Jon Secada, Josh Groban, Toby Keith, Alicia Keys, John Mayer, Cheap Trick, Stryper and Carnie Wilson.

Clearwater Beach Best Western Files Chapter 11

2009-10-12T13:01:00.000-04:00

The Best Western Sea Wake Beach Resort on Clearwater Beach is seeking bankruptcy protection while it's owner restructures.

Enchantment LLC filed a Chapter 11 petition last Friday. Bank of America brought a lawsuit to foreclose on the property in July.

The hotel was purchased for $25 million in 2005 with plans to build a $180 million condo tower.

Coral Reef Developer Outlines Plans

2009-09-30T15:49:00.000-04:00

More than 100 people attended a meeting to hear developer Robert Fleeting describe the proposed $60 million, 248-unit, 12-story twin-tower hotel. Many questions were raised including positioning of the new buildings, public beach access, and when construction would start. Another question was will it be a hotel, condotel, or timeshare? That will depend on the the hotelier chosen for the project.

City approval, hotelier agreement, and financing could take up to 10 months Once that is accomplished construction would start within weeks. Fleeting must wait 30 days from last week's meeting to seek formal site plan approval, but he has already submitted a preliminary site plan.

The old Coral Reef Hotel has been closed since 2004. Two timeshare buildings are open and will be included in a revised site plan to be submitted to the city. Timeshare owners have agreed to be included in the revised site plan.

Coral Reef Resort Could Be Redeveloped

2009-09-30T15:23:00.000-04:00

There will be a public meeting at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Warren Webster Community Center, 1500 Pass-a-Grille Way.

The developer, Coral Reef Partners LLC wants to demolish the 45 year old hotel and replace it with a $60 million timeshare or hotel. Plans include a new 12 story building - 10 floors of condos over 2 floors of parking garage. 248 2 bedroom 2 bath units will be approximately 1,000 sf each. Ammenities will include, restaurant, bar, workout center, and meeting space. The 4.28-acre complex, including the existing Coral Reef Resort timeshare buildings, will have three pools and four spas.

The hotel was purchased in 2004 and subsequently condemned for safety reasons. The timeshare buildings on the property are separately owned and remain open, and are considered part of the hotel site plan for zoning and building regulation purposes.

Several development contracts with a major hoteliers have been signed over the years, but never came to pass because of the city's changing development rules. New regulations were approved last year and officially went into effect this month.

Ovation Receives Certificate of Occupancy

2009-09-12T10:50:00.000-04:00

On September 9th, Ovation in Downtown St. Petersburg received it's Certificate of Occupancy, which declares the 27-story safe to occupy. Finishing touches are still being completed.

Ovation, a luxury waterfront condominium tower, broke ground in February 2007. The 45 estate size residences range from 2374 to 5329 square feet and feature views of downtown St Pete and Tampa Bay. Prices start at $1.2 million and 60% have been sold. In addition to residences Ovation features 17,800 square feet of retail space.

St Pete based developer, JMC Communities has built 12 condo buildings in Pinellas County, including Mandalay Beach Club, Belle Harbor, Meridian on Sand Key, and the Sandpearl Resort and Residences.

Clearwater Beach Holiday Inn Express Approved

2009-08-21T10:39:00.000-04:00

Last night the Clearwater City Council unanimously approved a development allowing construction of a Holiday Inn Express at Coronado and Devon Drive.

The new hotel will replace the now closed Port Vue hotel next to the marina, and will have 8 stories with 108 hotel rooms. The developer, Decade Properties, also owns the Holiday Inn on Gulfview Blvd.

Frenchy's Owner Opening Clearwater Beach Hotel

2009-08-20T12:06:00.001-04:00

Mike "Frenchy" Preston, owner of popular Frenchy's restaurants has purchased 2 Clearwater Beach hotels with plants to open a hotel with a retro "classy early 1960's theme".

The $1.6 million dollar purchase includes Ann's Edgewater and the Olympia Motel. The Olympia will be renovated and should be complete in a few months. There are no plans yet for changes to Ann's Edgewater.

The 2 properties located on East Shore Drive next to Frenchy's Seafood Co., which supplies the Frenchy's Restaruants with fresh seafood.

Harborage Marina Expansion Planned

2009-08-05T12:51:00.000-04:00

The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners has given approval for the expansion of the Harborage Marina in St Pete, which is located on Bayboro Harbor accross from USF.

The marina owner, Marinas International, wants to add 12 slips for large yachts, 4 new piers with an access ramp, 7 slips for vessels up to 200 feet long and 9 60-foot slips. Currently the Harborage has more than 300 wet slips and a floating concrete dock system, and 400 high-and-dry storage spaces.

Snell Isle Apartments May Add Boat Slips

2009-08-05T12:29:00.000-04:00

The Laramar Group will ask a St. Petersburg development review commission Aug. 5 for permission to build 50 slips along Smacks Bayou that could rent out to residents.

The Chicago property management company that bought the 272-unit Snell Isle Luxury Waterfront Apartment Homes in 2007 for nearly $30 million. The boat slips would be the last phase of a two-year restoration. The complex was deserted when it was purchased, and 18 months later is at 100% occupancy.

Tampa Port Expansion Planned

2009-08-05T12:23:00.000-04:00

A $13.3 million parking garage addition is set to begin at the Port of Tampa in Channelside, and across the channel a $75 million expansion of the container facility has started. The two projects are among many capital improvements at the port this year to accommodate future growth that is expected to follow the 2014 Panama Canal expansion.

Trump Tower Owner Seeks Quick Disposal

2009-07-26T10:52:00.000-04:00

Just days after reclaiming the former Trump Tower site in a foreclosure auction on July 15th, Colonial Bank is looking for a buyer, and may have one as soon as this week.

Trump Tower Has New Owners

2009-07-19T10:38:00.000-04:00

Colonial Bank is now the owner of the vacant 1.5 acre property in downtown Tampa that was scheduled to become Trump Tower Tampa.

On June 24th a Hillsborough County Circuit Court Judge awarded Colonial Bank more than $5 million from SimDag/RoBEL LLC and other defendants involved in the failed 52-story luxury condominium project.

SimDag/RoBEL bought the land for $16 million in 2004 and planned a $300 million luxury condo tower. In 2005 a deal was signed with Donald Trump to use the Trump name. Foundation work and groundbreaking began in 2007, but financing was never secured and SimDag/RoBel filed for Chapter 11 in June 2008, forcing Colonial Bank to foreclose.

Trump sued the developers for over $1 million claiming breach of contract and later settled with SimDag for an undisclosed sum.

Finally, A Deal For Beach Parking Garage

2009-06-20T12:21:00.001-04:00

Clearwater Beach has finally struck a deal to build a city parking garage. City council voted unanimously on a 300 space 4 level garage atop ground floor retail space. Vehicles will enter and exit the garage from Coronado Drive.

The site is currently the home of Britt's Laguna Grill, a popular restaurant on the Beachwalk promenade. A new Britt's will be located on the ground floor. Surf Style Retail Management, who owns the site will pay to build the garage itself, with no city tax dollars. It has not yet been determined what the city will charge for parking, but it will likely be similar the agreement the city has with the Hyatt, which will have 400 parking places for the public in its 750-space garage - rates must be "comparable" to the garages of other beachfront resorts.

The Beachwalk project, which was completed last year, eliminated hundreds of waterfront parking spaces on S. Gulfview Blvd, and the city has been scrambling ever since to come up with replacements. The city is currently leasing 2 vacant lots for parking.

The project is expected to to be complete by next fall.

Tampa Bay Light Rail Transit System Approved

2009-06-11T13:20:00.000-04:00

Transportation planners voted to approve a plan that would build a light rail and express bus service around Tampa Bay. The plan includes more than 100 miles of light rail lines and more than 400 miles of bus service by 2035. It would continue to grow by the year 2050, ultimately connecting seven counties and 43 cities.

Organizers anticipate that federal money will cover most of the cost, but at least a portion will be covered by a local sales tax increase, or other means. The first priority is expected to connect a light rail from the University of South Florida area to downtown Tampa.

St Pete Clearwater Airport Getting Renovations

2009-05-30T18:07:00.001-04:00

The St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport is undergoing major renovations including $12M in terminal improvements. The first phase should be finished by the winter holiday season. Over 97% of the project is grant funded, with the remainder coming from stimulus funds.

Renovations will improve the infrastructure, passenger conveniences, and cosmetics. One of the major features will be passenger loading bridges - some airlines will not fly to an airport without them.

During World War II the airport was a military training. After the war, the government gave property, then called the "Pinellas Army Airfield" to Pinellas County, and it became the Pinellas International Airport(PIE). PIE is one of the largest employers in the county and the busiest Coast Guard Air Station in the World. The 2,000 acre property has 3 runways.

Airport Traffic Snapshot: 70 tourist, 30% local comprised of:
5% passenger airlines
1% UPS cargo
10% military
84% private and corporate general aviation

Carriers include:
Allegiant Air
USA 3000
Sunwing
Transat Holidays
Sea Coast Airlines
Beau Rivage

All flights are nonstop. Canada is currently the only other country with flights available, but there is now a runway long enough for nonstop flights from Europe. The airport website is http://www.fly2pie.com/

Dunedin Gives Fenway Hotel Redevelopement Approval

2009-05-10T10:10:00.000-04:00

The developer plans to complete a period restoration on 48,694 square feet to resurrect its 1920s grandeur and two new wings featuring 1920s' design motifs. Fenway on the Bay was a popular resort from 1924 to the late 1950s. Later it was home to Trinity College and most recently Schiller International University. As part of the agreement the 5.2-acre property on Bayshore Boulevard in Dunedin will be designated a single-site historic overlay district.

When completed the renovated hotel will include: 132 rooms, restaurant, ballroom, meeting space, spa and retail shops. The development agreement calls for the construction of a 6-foot decorative masonry wall noise buffer prior to the start of the renovation work and an off site parking lot will handle employee and overflow parking.

Belleair Shore Will Limit Time For New Construction

2009-03-23T15:42:00.000-04:00

At the Belleair Shore Town Commission meeting, a draft of an ordinance limting the time allowed for new construction was presented. A 2 year limit is being proposed with a provision for an extension, if unsual circumstances arise.

Safety Harbor Townhomes Construction Schedule Set

2009-03-10T12:05:00.000-04:00

Last week, city commissioners gave devloper and former mayor Kent Runnells 21/2 years to begin construction on Harbor Key Townhomes. The 2.6 acre community will sit 50 feet above sea level at the northwest corner of Oak and Main in Safety Harbor. The 2 story homes will feature 2650 square feet, 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths and 2 car garages. The architecture will be Key West inspired with metal roofs, and open living spaces.

Runnells mus start building the first 8 units within 2.5 years. He has 3 years for an additional 10 units, and 5 years to complete the community. Runnells says he will need to sell 8 units before construction can begin. The city originally approved the development in 2006, then granted an extension in 2007. He must start building the next 10 dwellings within three years.

Penny For Pinellas Could Fund City Marina

2009-02-10T10:44:00.000-05:00

The slow economy is affecting the downtown boat slips to be built this year. Expensive hobbies like boating are among the first things people cut during tough times. Originally the city expected to allot the slips by lottery because of high demand, but only 2 people have signed up for slips.

Originally, the $128 million project was intended to be self-supporting, with monthly slip rents of approximately $15.50 per foot of boat length covering the operating costs and debt service. But boaters in today’s economy are not willing to pay such rents. City officials found that out when they recently raised the slip rent for Clearwater residents at the Clearwater Beach municipal marina from $6.94 to $9.13 per foot, with the intention of raising it to $15.50 by 2011. The marina lost several tenants, who weren't willing to pay more than $9.

Councilman Paul Gibson suggested keeping the price at $9.13 for the foreseeable future instead of raising it to $15.50. Mayor Frank Hibbard said that he doesn’t have a problem with reducing the projected slip rent, but he doesn’t know what the right price is, and that even a marina that initially runs in the red would be good for the city.

The city’s finance director projected that cancelling the marina project would cost the city more than $2.3 million in money already spent or committed. And, it would not only cause the city to lose a $1.2 million grant but might also hurt the city’s reputation for reliability, thereby hurting its chances of getting future grants.

With the marina project going forward with little imminent chance of becoming self-supporting, Gibson suggested using Penny for Pinellas sales tax revenue to build it. He said he would prioritize it and move it ahead of other projects. The city finance director said that there isn’t enough Penny money available, but the money could be borrowed from the city’s Central Insurance Fund until Penny funds become available. A public hearing will be required before Penny funds can be used for the project.

New Development For Gandy

2009-02-04T10:08:00.000-05:00

Tortuga Pointe Apartments will be a 16.4-acre, $42 million development that borders Tampa Bay wetlands on Gandy Blvd. The Pointe will include 295 luxury units featuring "old coastal Florida" architecture. Preliminary plans submitted to the city show an urban-inspired neighborhood with 3 buildings. At least 2 would be residential buildings, connected by a clubhouse and pool, with retail businesses on the ground floors. Lighted sidewalks lead out to Gandy Boulevard, with 730 parking spaces lining the grounds. Tortuga Pointe is scheduled to open in mid 2010.

Torguga Pointe joins other new gated developments including Brighton Bay, Grande Verandah, Mangrove Cay and Vantage Point. New shopping complexes are completed or under way and neighboring Derby Lane recently added a casino and concerts to its offerings.

Tampa Hard Rock Plans Major Expansion

2009-02-04T10:01:00.000-05:00

In this tough economy, gambling seems to be doing well. The Seminole Tribe of Florida, owner of the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tampa, plans to spend $600- to $800-million on the expansion. Plans include a new 22 story hotel tower with up to 1,000 rooms, 3 times the current capacity. Plans also call for 50,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, 6 restaurants, new parking garage, more gambling space, 3 new pools and a 1,500 to 2,000 seat music venue. Work is scheduled to begin at the end of the year.

Bay Pines Mobile Home Park Up For Sale Again

2009-02-03T10:00:00.000-05:00

The former Bay Pines Mobile Home Park, across from the VA hospital is for sale again. In May 2006 John Loder bought the 59 acre park in a controversial sale that displaced hundreds of elderly residents who thought that was where they would live the rest of their days.
By the end of 2006 all the residents were gone and it was razed. Today, there is still nothing but dirt and trees. The promise of luxury condos disappeared in the housing bubble, and the property is for sale again.

Loder paid $38.5 million for the property. Today it's listed for $19 million. The residential zoning allows for 15 units per acre. Possible rezoning of part of it could allow for a hotel, medical office and retail.

BayWalk Goes On The Auction Block

2009-01-31T09:52:00.000-05:00

BayWalk, a 130,000-square-foot retail and entertainment complex in downtown St Pete is set to be sold at a foreclosure auction on February 13th. BayWalk includes a variety of shops and restaurants along with a 20-screen Muvico theater. It opened in November 2000 and is popular with nearby Tropicana Field visitors.

Judge Oks Trump Tower Foreclosure

2009-01-28T08:59:00.000-05:00

A Tampa bankruptcy judge has ruled that Colonial Bank can proceed with its foreclosure against the riverfront project in Tampa. Trump Tower was going to be the areas tallest skyscraper with million dollar plus condos, but couldn't get fianancing. The bank is owed $3.5-million by developer SimDag LLC, who filed for bankruptcy in 2008, halting the foreclosure action. The 1.5-acre property, which SimDag said is worth at least $15-million, could be seized or auctioned by the bank as part of the foreclosure.

Westin Hotel Will Open For Super Bowl

2009-01-15T12:05:00.001-05:00

The Westin Tampa Bay Airport Hotel will open Jan. 22 in time for Super Bowl XLIII and two months ahead of schedule. The 16 story hotel will have 255 rooms and a 5 level parking garage. Impact Properties, owner of the hotel, expects to host a grand opening in April. The Westin Tampa Bay Airport Hotel is located at Rocky Point on the Courtney Campbell Causeway. It will feature the Aquaknox restaurant, the rooftop bar Blu Vu and a Starbucks.

Patel Project Given An Extension

2008-12-19T13:49:00.000-05:00

On December 18th the Clearwater City Council granted Kirin Patel and his development group a 3 year extension to begin construction on a 450 room hotel on Clearwater Beach. It was originally approved in 2004. The property will be used for city parking during the extension.

Tierra Verde Annexation Approved

2008-11-30T11:41:00.001-05:00

St. Petersburg City Council voted Friday to annex 18 acres in Tierra Verde, allowing a former resort and marina to be torn down and replaced by a high-rise condo complex.

Many residents from Tierra Verde showed up to protest, saying the high-rises would ruin the gateway to their community, blocking views and causing traffic problems.

Owners of the former Tierra Verde Resort Marina want to redevelop the property, although no plans have been submitted. Under agreements with the city, nothing taller than 8 stories would be built as long as the annexation isn't challenged in court. If challenged, the height could increase to 15 stories because St. Petersburg ordinances could be applied. The legal limit under St. Pete law is about 15 stories, which is triple the height of Tierra Verde's 50-foot limit.

Critics have said St. Petersburg's Mayor and other city leaders want the tax revenue the development of the annexed land would generate - up to $1 million annually. Baker on Friday defended the annexation, saying the increased revenue would help spread the tax burden among the residents of St. Pete.Baker also said he thinks the annexation is legally sound and will withstand any challenge in court.

An attorney for one of the potential developers, said property owners such as his client have the right by law to ask to be annexed.

Tierra Verde is an unincorporated area of Pinellas County and home to about 4,500 people and several businesses. The annexed land is on the north tip of the island, just south of a bridge to the Pinellas Bayway, and it includes, in addition to the now-vacant resort, a strip shopping center of small businesses and two boat-storage facilities.

Beach Hotel Decision Delayed

2008-11-30T10:28:00.000-05:00

The Clearwater Community Development Board approved a development agreement with Dr. Kirin Patel and his development company for a new hotel on Clearwater Beach 4 years ago. That was during the building boom. Now, building is at a standstill and financing difficult to find.

Patel has asked the city to approve an amended agreement. Among other things, it would give him 3 years from its approval to start the project. At the November 18th meeting Councilman Paul Gibson said that without a qualified partner, the project was “destined to fail” and may never get built.

Plans call for a 450 room hotel to be built on the 2.75-acre parcel directly south of Pier 60, between Coronado Drive and S. Gulfview Boulevard. 200 rooms will be timeshares and the rest will be available to the public.

The property is currently vacant and used for temporary public parking by the city. If the amended agreement is approved, the city wants to add $240k worth of improvements that would add 101 spaces to the 103 spaces and add curbing and landscaping. The city would eventually get 8 public parking spaces in the hotel’s parking garage to replace the curbside spaces that will be lost to the hotel project.

The City Council postponed a vote on the amended agreement until its Dec. 4 meeting so parking lot details can be tweaked.

New Pinellas County Park Underway

2008-11-12T12:03:00.000-05:00

Eagle Lake Park, a 156-acre development at Keene and Belleair roads, is about 50% complete and should be open to the public in about a year. Park construction has been paid for with $7.2 million in Penny funds and two state grants totaling $1.16 million.

The park will offer residents 2.5 miles of paved trails, 1.7 miles of shell foot paths, 293 parking spaces, a playground, a large dog park, 6 picnic shelters, 5 boardwalk viewing decks on ponds, 1,774 feet of boardwalks over wetlands, five vehicle bridges, various types of urban wildlife, such as coyotes, foxes, osprey and red-tailed squirrels. There will be a wetlands restoration area that will re-create the natural flow of water across the property.Entrances will be located on Keene, Belleair and Rosery roads.Roadways will be 22 feet wide and the trails 12 feet – the same as the Pinellas Trail.

The site also includes the Taylor Historical Addition, a 6.6-acre section the county purchased in 2006 for $2.25 million. The former Taylor family home, built in 1910, is being restored, along with a barn and other buildings nearby. They will be open for tours and geared toward school field trips. The park will be staffed with county personnel, including live-in security. The live-in site is a home formerly owned by a member of the Taylor family, which previously owned the land with the Carter family. The two families were among the original settlers in the county.

Park construction has been paid for with $7.2 million in Penny funds and two state grants totaling $1.16 million.

Madeira Beach Condo Extension Approved

2008-11-05T10:46:00.000-05:00

The developer of the Beach Club of Madeira condominium project at 14002 Gulf Blvd. was given a 1 year time extension to begin construction at the October Board of Commissioners meeting. The delay was requested due to problems with proposed fire ingress and egress.

The Beach Club of Madeira is a 7 story 13 unit project, which was originally approved as a Planned Development Project in January 2007.

Clearwater Beach Approves 2 New Projects

2008-10-22T10:13:00.000-04:00

Work on 2 Clearwater Beach construction projects has been approved by the city council.

Ocean Properties site: The 14-story Adams Mark was a landmark at 430 S Gulfview Blvd for 30 years. It was demolished 3 years ago to make way for a condo tower. That didn't work out due to the troubled housing market. It was then purchased by Ocean Properties, an international hotel developer and manager that operates more than 100 hotels. Ocean Properties planss to build a 230-room hotel on the site with a restaurant, bar, ballroom and five-story garage.

Clearwater Beach Resort & Hotel: Where the Spyglass recently stood at S Gulfview and Coronado Drive, Dr Kirin Patel is planning a 900,000 square foot project - 2 150-foot tall towers connected by a 95 foot tall building. It was originally going to be mostly condos, but then the condo market declined. The Community Development Board approved a new design on Tuesday mapping out 250 hotel rooms and suites and 200 weekly time-share rooms. Developers will now ask the city for an extension delaying a construction start until 2011 instead of 2010.

Trump Tower Tampa Suit Final - No Deal

2008-10-01T09:25:00.000-04:00

Donald Trump has settled his lawsuit with SimDag, developer of Trump Tower Tampa, officially ending the relationship between the two. The mediation gave neither side everything it wanted. Details have not been released.

Trump sued in May 2007 to recover more than $2-million in licensing fees for the right to use Trump's name on the 52-story skyscraper. SimDag launched a countersuit accusing Trump of breaching a confidentiality agreement by going public with his complaints.
The tower was planned in 2005 as the biggest skyscraper in west-central Florida, with prices ranging from $700k to $6 Million. But the developers couldn't get a $200-million loan amid Florida's condo glut. SimDag filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June.
SimDag has resisted selling the vacant 1.5-acre riverfront lot at 111 S Ashley Drive, waiting until the real estate market improves to get a better price. The settlement still needs ratification by the judge assigned to SimDag's bankruptcy case.

Spyglass Resort Makes Way For New Hotel & Timeshare

2008-07-31T14:39:00.001-04:00

The Spyglass Resort on Clearwater Beach was imploded last night on live television. The landmark was brought down with over 400 sticks of dynamite. Once the tallest building on the beach, it featured a large balloon mural on one side. It will be replaced with a hotel and timeshare, The Clearwater Beach Resort. Illusionis Criss Angel used the implosion as part of a stunt, which was telvised live on A&E.

Sand Key Residents Fight Cabana Club Development

2008-07-30T13:45:00.000-04:00

Legg Mason Real Estate Investors, the owner and redeveloper of the Belleview Biltmore and the Cabana Club, plans to replace the current club and swimming pool with a 6 story luxury 38 room boutique hotel with a large restaurant, bar and beach side cabaña amenity. Lead architect Richard Heisenbottle presented the details of the project in a public meeting last Tuesday at the Belleview Biltmore.
Many Sand Key residents say that the project is too commercial for the residential area, although the present site operates commercially. Community activists have organized opposition to the project and have fashioned an information blog and web site pointing out their objections. One is heavy beach use as a result of the hotel and cabanas in an area they consider environmentally sensitive. Ocean views coveted by residents near the project could conceivably be diminished by the height of the proposed building. It measures 67 feet above the flood zone line that is approximately 6 feet above ground level at the site. The code calls for 25 feet, but many buildings in the area surpass that and 2 properties at 1350 and 1370 Gulf Boulevard have received variances to 80 feet within the past three years.
Design and construction plans that have been revised by the developer seek various deviations to the Community Development Code including set backs, distance to neighboring properties and building height, all of which pose problems according to opponents. The issues are now under review by the Clearwater Planning Department and a report should be available in August with city staff recommendations concerning the variances. The board will study the report before taking action on the issues at their August 19th meeting at city hall.

Treasure Island Publix Near Completion

2008-07-19T14:27:00.000-04:00

Construction of a new Publix supermarket in Treasure Island is on schedule and the store will open in late August. The 2 story 28,000-square-foot store at Gulf Boulevard is unlike any other Publix. The store features parking spaces on the first level under the store. The 2 levels are connected by 4 elevators, each large enough to accommodate at least 2 customers and their carts.

Amenities include a boat dock, allowing customers to visit the store via boat, and an outdoor picnic area. Unlike many existing Publix stores, the new store will not offer a Greenwise section (organic products will be integrated with non organic products) or pharmacy. The store will have floral products, sushi and full-service meat, seafood, deli and bakery departments.

It include two retail locations for other businesses, one has been leased to a Subway and the other is still available.

Beach Walk Dedication Cermony July 19th

2008-07-15T14:13:00.000-04:00

The City of Clearwater and Sunsets at Pier 60 will Celebrate Beach Walk on Saturday, July 19th. A dedication ceremony will begin at 6 pm at the Sundial Plaza at Beach Walk, with a fireworks display at 9:30 pm. There will be musicians, street entertainers, local mascots, and performers along the Beach Walk promenade. Many beach businesses will be offering specials during the celebration. Fireworks are at 9:30 p.m.

Beach Walk was designed to revitalize the community that surrounds Clearwater’s popular south beach destination. The $30-million project has attracted new hotel development to the beach and will bring new tourism to the area. Beach Walk was opened in the spring ahead of schedule, this cermony makes it official.

Radisson Will Get $20M Makeover, Become Marriott

2008-07-06T20:39:00.000-04:00

The Radisson Hotel and Conference Center in Pinellas Park will undergo a $20 million expansion and become a Marriott. Plans are in place to bring ESPN to the facility when Super Bowl 2009 played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. A 9 story addition will be added to the present building, adding 50 suites to the property. The present rooms will undergo massive renovations. Meeting facilities will be expanded from 10,000 square feet to 25,000 square feet and a two-story tall waterfall will be the centerpiece of the new lobby area. The Bellarte restaurant will be converted into a high-end eatery with upscale food and liquors. The gym will be relocated to the 1st floor and transformed into a fitness center with the latest exercise equipment. The swimming pool will be relocated to another area of the property and the current pool area will be converted into a new outdoor restaurant. Work will be done in 3 phases.Most of the first phase of work is expected to be completed by Dec. 31st and work on the new nine-story addition is scheduled to begin in April 2009.

Hotel Planned for PIE Airport

2008-06-25T12:16:00.000-04:00

American Hotel Development Partners, LLC and the St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport announced plans to develop a $13.2 million, 106-room Staybridge Suites Hotel at the airport. Construction is set to begin in August of this year and expected to open late 2009. The airport is currently undergoing a $10 million renovation and has recently been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the FAA for safety, security, and the airport’s terminal renovation projects.

Church of Scientology Hires Staubach Co.

2008-06-20T14:22:00.000-04:00

The largest property owner in downtown Clearwater, the Church of Scientology, has hired Staubach Co. to oversee the $45 million dollar interior renovations on it's spiritual headquaters in downtown Clearwater. Staubach Co. is an international construction management firm founded by former NFL star Roger Staubach,

Trump Tower Developer Files For Chapter 11

2008-06-18T09:32:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday, SimDag filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Tampa. 3 years ago York tycoon kicked off sales for his namesake, a 52-story luxury condominium tower at 111 S Ashley Drive in Tampa.SimDag would build the 190 units by licensing Trump's name. But as SimDag failed to get a $200-million loan, the condo market took a nosedive. Buyers of units began dropping out. Last year Trump sued SimDag for unpaid licensing fees.
The bankruptcy filing lists $10- to $50-million in liabilities, many to condo buyers who gave SimDag deposits ranging up to $1.6-million. SimDag estimated its number of creditors exceeded 200. A more detailed list of creditors, including Trump, banks, and contractors, will be realeased shortly.

Clearwater Beach Condo Project On Hold

2008-05-19T08:41:00.000-04:00

The $200 million Marquesas condo project has been put on hold by developer JMC Communities as a result of the soft condo market.

The two tower project was scheduled to have 142 condos and 6 penthouses ranging in cost from about $800,000 to $3-million.

In a May 7 letter to buyers, JMC announced it was postponing Marquesas offering buyers a choice of unsold condos in its previous luxury beach front project, Sandpearl Resort which failed to sell all of it's units. Until Marquesas is built its buyers can use the beach club at Sandpearl.

New Condo Project Proposed For Johns Pass

2008-05-10T09:35:00.000-04:00

MADEIRA BEACH – Developer Joe Dagastino presented plans at ta public meeting for a $15 million, 80-room hotel at John’s Pass Village.

The hotel would be built on a 1.43-acre site on 129th Avenue currently being used as a parking lot.

The five-story, 14,244-square-foot building would face 129th Avenue with 42 parking spaces underneath at ground level. Another nine spaces would be available nearby on the property. It will have a swimming pool on the second floor and a breakfast area in the lobby. Financing has yet to be finalized. Dagostino and his partners have built other successful projects locally including La Vistana in Redington Shores, Bella Rosa on Sand Key and La Contessa in Redington Beach.

The plans must be approved by city officials, which will take at least 4 months, and construction would take between 9 and 11 months.

Tampa Tower 2 Developer Files For Bankruptcy

2008-04-12T16:54:00.000-04:00

Tampa Condo 2 LLC, the developer behind The Tampa Tower 2, is seeking Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
The would have given downtown Tampa its tallest condo tower - a proposed 51-story, 472 unit condominium tower.

Tampa Condo 2 is a subsidiary of Amon Investments LLC of Daytona Beach, which also is building Station Square in Clearwater and had plans to build The Tampa Tower 4 downtown near the proposed Tampa Tower 2. It is unclear how the bankruptcy filing would affect these projects, if at all.

This is the 3rd high-profile bankruptcy filed this year for downtown projects. The other 2 are The Towers of Channelside and Key Developers Group LLC's The Place at Channelside.

Clearwater City Council Suing Developer

2008-04-12T16:42:00.000-04:00

In 2002 the Community Redevelopment Agency entered into an agreement for Sarasota developer Bruce Balk to build 100 residential units called "Mediterranean Village in the Park", ranging from 1,200 to 1,600 square feet, on the 5.4 acre former Dimmitt Chevrolet property on Clevland Street in downton Clearwater.

Balk abandoned the project after only 15 units were completed. The CRA sought other developers to complete the project but Balk refused to sign a “termination certificate” allowing another developer to finish. This has resulted in a "cloud on the title" to the property, which must be cleared before it can be conveyed to another party.

The Council gave permission to file a lawsuit against Balk and his two companies, the Balk Company Inc. and Mediterranean Village, LLC. asking the court to either enforce the original contract or “quiet” the title to the land so another developer can build on it.

Dunedin "Gateway Project" OKd

2008-04-12T16:18:00.000-04:00

Dunedin City Commission unanimously approved develper Pizzuti's preliminary site plan for what is being called the Gateway project. Pizzuti plans to build retail and office space and residential units near Main St and Skinner Blvd downtown. The project will be 3 floors and 8 units per acre, less that the 4 floors and 30 units per acre allowed.

A rendering shows arches, stepbacks, and columns. Offices will front Skinner Boulevard, and residential units will be on the floors above the shops and offices. An extension of Milwaukee Avenue will be built to serve the new complex.

Approval of the preliminary site plan was the first of several needed approvals. On May 15, the City Commission is scheduled to consider the new purchase contract and the development agreement between the developer and the city.

City Councilman Irked by Messy Developer

2008-04-11T17:00:00.000-04:00

Overspray from stucco and paint being sprayed on the Water's Edge building being constructed by Opus South has landed on a car belonging to City Councilman Paul Gibson. The project is next to city hall.

The city’s construction manager, said Opus officials had promised to take preventative measures, including repairing the protective netting around the building and that Opus has made arrangements for a local carwash to wash the damaged cars and for an overspray cleaning company to come to City Hall and clean those cars that cannot conveniently be taken to the carwash.

Gibson was not safisfied and said he is looking into possible ordinance violations.

Clearwater Beach 42 Slip Dock Approved

2008-04-10T15:57:00.000-04:00

Pinellas County commissioners voted Tuesday to approve the city of Clearwater's request to create a 42-slip commercial dock in a boat basin off Mandalay Channel. The project is being constructed in a city partnership with JMC Communities of St. Pete, the developer of the Sandpearl hotel and condo project on the beach's gulf side. JMC Communities will pay for the construction of the dock. 27 slips will be leased to the Sandpearl, and 15 slips will be available to the public.

Spyglass Resort In Clearwater Beach To Be Demolished

2008-03-31T09:34:00.000-04:00

You may not know it by name, but if you've been to Clearwater Beach you've seen the hotel with with the hot-air balloon mural on the side. The 64 room hotel has fallen into disrepair over the years, but the landmark was once very popular. When it was built in 1971 it was the tallest building on the beach.

Today the building occupies a spot that developers want to turn into a 250-room resort with 200 timeshares. Developers initially wanted to start work on a resort 150 feet tall and 500 feet across with 350 condo-hotel units and 75 condominiums in 2006. Then the condo market went soft. Now they want to build hotel rooms, not condos, but they'll need more time to come up with designs and secure permits. Developers are asking for a March 2010 start date, something the council appears ready to grant — as long as the property is cleaned up within five months. That would be in time for the city's annual Ironman triathlon.

Ritz Carlton Gets 3rd Partner

2008-01-19T17:07:00.000-05:00

Hersha Development, based in Philadelphia joins Orion Communities Inc. and R.L. Pearson & Associates as a full joint venture partner for the Ritz Carlton Tampa Bay.

When completed in 2011, the Ritz-Carlton will have 269 hotel rooms and 44 residences in the hotel and 132 residences in an adjacent tower. Among the amenities are a 15,000-square-foot spa and wellness center, boutique shops, retail space and various dining options. It will also have 30,000 square feet of meeting space, including a 12,000-square-foot ballroom. A sales office in the Rocky Point area will open early this year.

Ritz Carlton Coming To Tampa

2007-12-12T17:12:00.000-05:00

Orion Communities Inc. and RL Pearson & Associates Inc. plan to build a 269-room Ritz-Carlton Tampa Bay and The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton Tampa Bay in the Rocky Point area near Tampa International Airport.

It will be the 10th Ritz-Carlton in Florida and the second one in Tampa Bay. Ritz-Carlton Sarasota opened in 2002.

Amenities will include a 15,000-square-foot spa and wellness center, boutique shops, retail space, separate hotel and residence outdoor swimming pools with whirlpools and restaurants, including a signature restaurant and a South Beach inspired beachside bar and grill.

Select guests and residents will have access to the private Club Lounge, a signature amenity that provides a catered, social environment for children and adults offering daily entertainment, light cuisine and refreshments.

The Beach Club will offer a boardwalk along the bay, cabanas and a waterfront bar and grill. The marina will provide boat slips for hotel guests and select residences. A designated dock master will service the marina.

The Residences at the Ritz-Carlton Tampa Bay, the condo component of the hotel, will offer 44 units on the top seven floors as well as 132 private condominiums in an adjacent 19-story tower. Units will have floor plans averaging 2,800 square feet.

Residents will have access to all the services and amenities offered by the hotel, including concierge service, room service, catering, housekeeping and valet parking. They will also have their own private pool, social room, theater, game room and business center.

Rogers Beach Development Shut Down

2007-11-17T12:44:00.000-05:00

The phone has been disconnected and the office is empty at Rogers Beach Development, also known as RBD Realty. The owner of the Clearwater Beach business that offered 20 different condo developments on it's website, claims they are still in business, but former employees say that's not the case.

Aqualea Construction To Begin

2007-09-12T17:20:00.000-04:00

The Aqualea Resort Condominium Hotel and Residences will now be a reality on Clearwater Beach.

Financing for the 268-unit complex on South Gulfview Boulevard has been secured. Total financing is around $105 million, or more than $391,000 per unit.

The deleloper has partnered with the Hyatt Corp. to develop the complex, which will feature a four-star resort that will be the centerpiece of Clearwater Beach's Beach Walk.

Foundation work has already begun on the 400-foot expanse of Gulfview Boulevard where the 920,000-square-foot Aqualea will be built. It's expected to be completed by the end of 2009.

The resort will include two swimming pools, a beach concession with towel and beverage service, a spa and private air-conditioned poolside cabanas.

Owners will be able to live or vacation in their units and make them available for rental through Hyatt's resort management program. Units range in price from $485,000 to $1.4 million, according to previous reports. Also included will be a $5.4 million penthouse. Sales could begin within the next 16 months.

Aqualea was one of many projects announced for Clearwater Beach since early 2005. Most have been delayed, including Clearwater Grande from Clearwater Grande Development, Entrada from Decade Properties, Kiran Grand Resort & Spa from K&P Clearwater Estate, Marbella Condominiums from Lucca Development and Sienna Sands.

Lele Development's Enchantment Beachfront Residences is still offering units in a pre-sales capacity down the street from Aqualea where units were available for between $900,000 and $2.7 million. JMC Communities has begun construction of Marquesas, where units were reportedly being offered for between $700,000 and $6 million.

Taylor Woodrow's Indigo Beach Residence & Suites, which offered 190 units between $1 million and $2.5 million, was cancelled earlier this year.

Enchantment Cutting Prices

2007-07-12T17:27:00.000-04:00

Uday Lele, devloper of Enchantment on Clearwater Beach sell the first 40 units of his project at $675 a square foot with a 20 percent deposit, after cutting the price of an average unit to just under $1 million.

When the Gulfview Boulevard project was announced last year, he was asking nearly $3.1 million a unit on average, about $990 a square foot. With a design resembling a butterfly, Enchantment Beachfront Residences initially offered more than 90 units with a 240-degree view of the shoreline from each.

The 40 sales he's after now are needed for financing for the $180 million project. After those units are sold, the remaining units will be sold for prices at least 20 percent higher. The design has been reconfigured to help deliver the same amenities at a lower cost.

Many condominium projects not already underway are being forced to rethink sales strategies or cease operations altogether. Beachfront property has taken a considerable hit from the housing declines, and some high-profile projects that neighbored Enchantment's property are history. That includes Indigo Beach Residences & Suites, a 15-story, 112-unit condo project that Taylor Woodrow cancelled in May.

Coral Reef Resort on St Pete Beach Sells For $7.3 Million

2005-01-26T14:39:00.000-05:00

The Coral Reef Hotel on St. Pete Beach has been sold for $7.3 million to Coral Reef Partners LLC. In addition to the hotel, buyers also purchased the lease on Bongo's, the hotel's beach bar/restaurant, for $1 million.
The 60-room facility will continue to operate as the Coral Reef Beach Hotel, renovations are underway to redevelop the property as a resort hotel. There are also 2 timeshare buildings on the property that were not part of the sale.