January 31, 2024

It’s official: Whole Foods announces opening date for St. Pete store

January 31, 2024/ Brian Hartz

The highly anticipated opening date of St. Petersburg’s first Whole Foods Market has been announced.

The Austin, Texas-based specialty grocery store chain has planned a grand opening of its St. Pete store for February 28th at 201 38th Avenue North.

“The store’s design draws inspiration from St. Petersburg, nicknamed the ‘Sunshine City’ for its association with sundials,” Whole Foods Market said in a press release. “A prominent glowing sun greets customers while decor elements throughout the store incorporate sun rays and a palette of warm colors.”

Opening morning, shoppers will be able to enjoy complimentary coffee and breakfast bites. The first 300 customers in line will receive a limited-edition tote bag and a Secret Saver coupon featuring offers up to $100 off.

January 30, 2024

State of the City: Mayor Welch promises equitable development through Rays deal, more housing, and business opportunities

January 30, 2024/ Veronica Brezina

Residents, leaders from nonprofits, and the descendants of the Historic Gas Plant District filled the seats in The Palladium, applauding Mayor Ken Welch on the city's achievements over 2023 and what's in the cards for this year.

Once again, the redevelopment of the 86-acre former Gas Plant District took center stage at the State of the City address, held Tuesday, January 30th.

St. Pete’s partnership with the Hines and Tampa Bay Rays joint venture was first announced at last year's State of the City address.

"We've met every project milestone working diligently with partners and finalizing an agreement to bring the 40-year saga to a positive conclusion," Welch said.

January 30, 2024

Jeremiah's Italian Ice to take over former Kahwa Coffee in west St. Pete

January 30, 2024/ Brian Zucker

Orlando-based Jeremiah’s Italian Ice will soon be scooping up its iconic frozen treats in St. Petersburg.

Jeremiah’s will be located at 4850 Park Street North, formerly home to Kahwa Coffee, in west St. Pete, according to the company’s website. The new shop will be situated just north of Tyrone Boulevard in a shopping center anchored by Kohl’s, Ross, and Total Wine.

The 1,800-square-foot St. Pete outpost will be owned by local franchisee Shawn Shbib, who opened his first Jeremiah’s three years ago at 13100 Seminole Boulevard Suite 103 in Largo. In addition to St. Pete, Shbib is also planning a Clearwater location at 541 S Ft. Harrison Avenue.

"The best franchise to own is one that you're passionate about. What drew me to Jeremiah's was the culture and business model,” said Schbib in a Facebook post in 2020. “Enjoy what you do and take advantage of the opportunities that come your way. Live life to the coolest!”

January 29, 2024

Former Lealman mobile home park to become 17-unit affordable housing development

January 29, 2024/ Veronica Brezina

A local nonprofit plans to convert the Wood Acres mobile home park in Pinellas’ Lealman community into an affordable housing complex.

Pinelllas Affordable Living Inc. (PAL), a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) established by the Boley Centers that has developed multiple housing communities for low-income residents and those suffering from mental illnesses, is expected to enter a ground lease deal for the property at 3901 46th Avenue North.

The group intends to build 17 apartments for households at or below 60% of the area median income (AMI) with four units set aside for households earning below 33% of the AMI.

January 26, 2024

Done Deals: New retail on Central, revitalizing Williams Park, affordable housing tops out

January 26, 2024/ Veronica Brezina

Done Deals is a new weekly column by St. Pete Rising spotlighting recent real estate market insight and significant deals happening in the Sunshine City and beyond. The following information is sourced from public records and trusted intel.

Have real estate news to share? Send us an email at hello@stpeterising.com.