October 17, 2024

Crane collapse causes uncertain future for Karma Juice Bar and Eatery in downtown St. Pete

October 17, 2024/ Veronica Brezina

Karma Juice Bar and Eatery owner Josie Barber didn't realize it at the time, but her last-minute decision to not hunker down inside her downtown restaurant during Hurricane Milton potentially saved her life.

As Milton swept through Florida last week as a Category 3 storm, its high winds caused a tower crane at 400 Central, a 46-story luxury condo tower currently under construction in downtown St. Pete, to topple onto an office building that houses Karma Juice Bar and Eatery.

While no injuries were reported in the eight-story building, located at 490 1st Avenue South, the 500-foot-tall crane allowed rainwater to pour into the floors and set off the emergency sprinklers, causing additional damage.

October 10, 2024

Hurricane Milton plows through St. Pete, city commences recovery efforts

October 10, 2024/ Veronica Brezina

Making landfall Wednesday evening near Siesta Key as a Category 3 storm, Milton unleashed its wrath throughout Florida with its outer bands also causing immense storm surge and property damage.

"It’s been a tough few weeks, but we’re still with you - we’re ready to recover and rebuild," the City of St. Petersburg team wrote on Facebook.

"City crews began accessing damage at daybreak and we’re encouraging all residents to stay off the roads until public safety officials deem it safe."

September 16, 2024

46-story 400 Central tower nears vertical completion in downtown St. Pete

September 16, 2024/ Veronica Brezina

Vertical construction is nearly complete for Red Apple’s 46-story condominium tower, The Residences at 400 Central, as crews have reached the 43rd floor with a new floor being added every six days.

New York billionaire John Catsimatidis Sr., founder of Red Apple Group, and select media members gathered at the tower site on Monday morning for a ceremonial topping out celebration.

“I wanted to build something in honor of Margo’s parents who’ve been coming to St. Pete for 40 years,” said Catsimatidis Sr. “My only regret is that I did not invest sooner.”