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Kriseman picks Tampa firm to operate Pier District

 
Published Feb. 12, 2016

ST. PETERSBURG — Mayor Rick Kriseman has picked the firm he wants to manage the new $66 million Pier District when it opens in 2018.

In a memo Thursday, Kriseman said Colliers International Tampa gives the city the "greatest opportunity for successful operation and management" of the district.

Colliers International, a commercial real estate services firm, already manages John's Pass Marina at Madeira Beach.

The firm will get what is expected to be a five-year contract that will have to be approved by the City Council.

The planned district will span 26 acres from the new Pier to Bayshore and Beach drives.

The firm's responsibilities will include marketing, leasing, parking and security. It also will be expected to offer activities and entertainment. A key goal is to increase revenues while reducing taxpayer subsidies.

In January, a committee of city staff and the public evaluated proposals from three companies. Their reviews were sent to Kriseman for his decision.

The other firms were Philadelphia's Spectra Venue Management and the recently formed Skyway One in St. Petersburg.

Contact Charlie Frago at cfrago@tampabay.com or (727) 893-8459. Follow@CharlieFrago.