St. Pete faith leaders make their voices heard on Tropicana Field redevelopment project
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In St. Petersburg, nearly a dozen African American faith leaders are actively advocating for the Sugar Hill development proposal as part of the Tropicana Field redevelopment project. Their primary goal is to ensure that the redevelopment honors the historical significance of the site, which was once the thriving Gas Plant district. The proposal seeks to create between 2,500 and over 3,000 affordable and workforce housing units, contingent on whether a baseball stadium is included. Additionally, the plan features a pedestrian bridge aimed at connecting communities divided by the interstate and a history walk that will celebrate the contributions of African American artists.
Dr. Wayne Thompson, one of the leaders, reflects on the vibrant past of the Gas Plant area and emphasizes the need for the city to fulfill its earlier promises to the community. Manuel Sykes, another faith leader, warns that failing to take action could lead to the complete erasure of African American history in the area. The leaders firmly believe that choosing the right developer is crucial for promoting black businesses and creating a thriving community. Their endorsement of JMA Ventures' Sugar Hill proposal highlights their commitment to a redevelopment that serves the community's needs.