Opinion: It’s time to advocate for missing middle zoning
/The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, Jillian Bandes, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of St. Pete Rising.
For several years now, we have followed the implementation of NTM-1, a zoning designation that would legalize the construction of two, three, and four-family homes along certain transit corridors.
St. Pete City Staff has started the process of getting approval to apply NTM-1 to the fronts of major corridors. This would affect a small number of parcels – about 3,000.
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The Manhattan Casino, the historic 22nd Street South venue that once hosted performers including James Brown, Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Ray Charles, will reopen September 19 following a $4.8 million renovation.
The City of St. Petersburg will operate the two-story building at 642 22nd Street South as an event venue, with a ribbon-cutting and open house planned for 10 a.m. that day.
The reopening returns a major gathering place to The Deuces, the historically Black commercial and cultural district along 22nd Street South. The venue will be available for weddings, corporate events, conferences, family gatherings and live performances.
The renovations include new flooring and air conditioning, along with a new lobby, conference room, green room, catering kitchen, and stage for live bands.
The first floor will house the 2,232-square-foot Legacy Room and an entry foyer with a bar, while the second floor will feature the 4,152-square-foot Jordan Ballroom, named for Elder Jordan Sr.