Massive 31-story, twin-tower development approved for downtown St. Pete

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Massive 31-story, twin-tower development approved for downtown St. Pete

The City of St. Petersburg has officially approved plans for one of downtown’s largest-ever residential projects, a transformative $225 million development featuring two 31-story towers at the former headquarters of UPC Insurance.

First reported by St. Pete Rising earlier this year, the project at 800 2nd Avenue South is being led by local developer Echelon, LLC and Tampa-based investment advisory firm Third Lake Partners.

Now greenlit by the City, the development will move forward with site plan approvals, setting the stage for construction to begin as early as the first quarter of 2026.

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Fitness retailer Fit2Run to launch new lifestyle concept 6Laps, debut new Central Avenue stores in May

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Fitness retailer Fit2Run to launch new lifestyle concept 6Laps, debut new Central Avenue stores in May

Fit2Run, the beloved Florida-based running retailer, is taking a major step forward in downtown St. Pete. This May, the brand will open two side-by-side retail stores at 801 Central Avenue—an upgraded Fit2Run store and the launch of a brand-new lifestyle concept, 6Laps.

The dual-storefront, spanning a combined 6,643 square feet, represents a new era for the company, which has been serving runners since 2006. Fit2Run will occupy the majority of the space with a 5,143-square-foot location, while 6Laps will take over a smaller, 1,500-square-foot footprint next door.

Though connected by a revolving door, the two stores will operate independently with distinct identities, aesthetics, and product lines.

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Inside Elliott Aster, The Vinoy’s new signature restaurant opening mid-May

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Inside Elliott Aster, The Vinoy’s new signature restaurant opening mid-May

The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, a landmark on downtown St. Petersburg’s waterfront, is set to unveil its new signature restaurant, Elliott Aster, in mid-May. This opening marks the completion of the first phase of an extensive renovation of the historic hotel.

Located at 501 5th Avenue Northeast, The Vinoy has been a defining feature of downtown St. Petersburg since its construction in 1925. Owned by Bryan and Shanna Glazer—who also own the Tampa Bay Buccaneers—the hotel has undergone a comprehensive renovation aimed at modernizing its amenities while preserving its historic charm.

The Glazers purchased the property for $188.5 million in 2018 and embarked on a transformation that included updates to the hotel’s veranda, porte-cochère, lobby, guest rooms, spa, and restaurants. Additionally, The Vinoy was rebranded as part of the Marriott Autograph Collection.

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Habitat for Humanity moves forward on two affordable housing projects in Pinellas County

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Habitat for Humanity moves forward on two affordable housing projects in Pinellas County

The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners has approved $3 million in funding to support two significant affordable housing projects by Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside.

These developments—located in Clearwater and Lealman—will provide more than 80 new homes for families in need, advancing the county's commitment to affordable housing solutions.

In Lealman, a 5.94-acre parcel of underused land will be developed into a vibrant residential community. Habitat has secured approval to acquire the land from the Housing Finance Authority of Pinellas County (HFA). The plans include 57 new affordable housing units, featuring a mix of 31 single-family homes and 26 townhomes. The county will contribute $2.29 million in funding, supporting the $10.13 million project.

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Home of the Week: A 1925-built bungalow in Campbell Park near downtown

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Home of the Week: A 1925-built bungalow in Campbell Park near downtown

This week’s featured Home of the Week is a three-bedroom, two-bathroom bungalow at 951 9th Avenue South in Campbell Park.

Built in 1925, the 1,486-square-foot home retains much of its historic character while incorporating modern updates.

The home features original hardwood floors, vintage pushbutton light switches, and period-style fixtures. The kitchen has been updated with shaker-style cabinetry, granite countertops, subway tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances, including a flat-top stove with a pot filler.

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