Treasure Island’s iconic Thunderbird Beach Resort could be rebuilt bigger than before
/After suffering major hurricane damage last year, Treasure Island’s iconic Thunderbird Beach Resort will be completely demolished and rebuilt, potentially larger than before, while preserving its nostalgic charm.
The city’s Planning and Zoning Board unanimously approved a site plan last Thursday for a new four-story resort that will replace the 68-year-old property at 10700 Gulf Boulevard.
As first reported by St. Pete Rising, the rebuild calls for one single U-shaped building to house all 106 hotel rooms—the same number as before—on three levels above a 124-space surface parking lot beneath the structure, along with a 1,750-square-foot lobby and office space.
The resort’s appearance is expected to change significantly, but the Thunderbird name and its historic neon sign will remain.
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An updated plan for a proposed 13-story, 120-unit residential project in the Grand Central District would reserve 48 apartments for affordable housing.
Tampa-based BendinRoad Development is seeking $4.8 million in federal disaster-recovery funding through the City of St. Petersburg for Residences at 1663, planned at 1663 1st Avenue South.
City staff has recommended the request for approval, and City Council will vote on it October 1st.
The site is currently home to a vacant commercial building that was previously occupied by Sunshine Kitty Catfe, which closed three years ago, and the Dolman Law Group.
Plans, which were approved in 2025, call for a 13-story building with 60 apartments and 60 short-term rental units that could be rented nightly, weekly, or monthly.
While the building’s design and layout remain unchanged, the developer delayed its original construction timeline to pursue the affordable housing funding.
A groundbreaking is now planned for early 2027.