What’s next for Tampa’s Water Street? A lively entertainment district

Tampa’s Water Street development took a sleepy area dominated by parking lots and turned it into a bustling downtown with high-rise apartments and high-end restaurants. That transformation is most palpable during hockey season, when thousands of fans flood the streets on their way to see the Tampa Bay Lightning play. Now, the developer behind Water Street wants to capitalize on that game-day energy by adding a full-fledged entertainment district across from Benchmark International Arena.“The vision is to create a destination that broadens what Water Street Tampa offers—one that delivers a diverse range of experiences and remains active whether driven by major events or everyday downtown life," said Josh Taube, CEO of Strategic Property Partners.On Friday, the company will submit plans to the city calling for:- A 3,500‑capacity live music venue - A 250‑key hotel with a 12,000-square-foot amenity level and pool deck. - 80,000 square feet of entertainment-focused retail and dining space - A central plaza facing Channelside Drive and Benchmark International Arena - Approximately 1,000 new parking spacesThis next phase will built on a vacant four-acre lot on Channelside Drive between Morgan and Jefferson streets. Walkable, public gathering spaces will seamlessly connect the entertainment district to the existing neighborhood.The music venue will be managed in partnership with Vinik Sports Group. It will be an “open room” venue, meaning it can host tours from any promoter instead of being tied exclusively to one company, for instance, LiveNation.The main floor will be general admission, with space for 2,800 people. There will also be a 700-person mezzanine level and a 6,000-square-foot VIP lounge.Outside, an 8,000-square-foot terrace will overlook Channelside Drive.Moss Construction and Barton Malow have been selected as the general contractors and Gensler will serve as architect. The plans don’t require a vote from City Council, just staff approval. That decision is expected to take several months. Groundbreaking is anticipated for early 2027.

What’s next for Tampa’s Water Street? A lively entertainment district

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What’s next for Tampa’s Water Street? A lively entertainment district

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