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Tampa, FL - Plans are moving forward for a major new entertainment development in downtown Tampa that would introduce a 3,500 seat live music and performance venue designed to attract a wider range of concerts and events to the area.
Strategic Property Partners, the developer behind the Water Street Tampa project, revealed the proposal for a privately funded entertainment district located near the existing arena complex downtown.
The centerpiece of the project would be a mid sized performance venue intended to bridge the gap between small clubs and large arenas currently operating in the Tampa Bay area.
Developers say the venue would allow Tampa to host more touring artists who typically bypass markets without appropriately sized facilities.
The project aims to complement existing venues rather than compete with them, offering flexibility for concerts, comedy shows, and special events.
In addition to the performance space, the proposed district includes plans for a 250 room hotel, approximately 100,000 square feet of retail, dining, and entertainment space, and structured parking to support increased foot traffic.
The site is currently underutilized and would be transformed into a year round destination for residents and visitors.
The venue would be operated in partnership with Vinik Sports Group, which manages several major sports and entertainment properties in the region.
City leaders have expressed support, citing economic development, tourism growth, and expanded cultural offerings as key benefits.
The project is still in the planning and approval phase, with construction potentially beginning as early as 2027 pending city approvals and final design plans.
