What's happening in the Heights?

The redevelopment of the Central City YMCA's Tampa Heights property is moving forward, after Tampa City Council gave its initial approval late last week.

Tampa-based Ellison Development will lead the 1.25 million-sqft project, right in the heart of the Tampa Heights Historic District at 110 E. Palm Ave.

Casey Ellison, Ellison Development president and CEO, added in a statement to social media that the project will allow the YMCA "to expand their reach while also creating a much-needed link between Ybor City and the Heights."

What's included?

The $600 million project will practically double the square footage of the current Central City YMCA + transform the 6.2 acres into a bustling core of activity with:

A 200-room hotel
400 multi-family housing units (10% will be classified as affordable)
Retail space
20,000 sqft of green space
184,000 sqft of office space
Preservation of the Standard Oil Building located at 110 E. Oak Ave.

The plans for the new YMCA

Rooftop pool
Pickleball courts
Pre-school + before and after school care
Teen programs
Skybridge over Florida Avenue connecting to parking and offices
Summer day camps
Wellness resources

Check out more details on the plans.

What's the timeline?

The project still needs final approval from Tampa City Council. A second hearing is booked for Thursday, April 18.

Construction is expected to start this summer, with work on the new Center City YMCA. Don't worry, the current YMCA will not close its doors until the new facility is open. Ellison forecasts the new YMCA will be finished in early 2026.