Derby Lane sold to new owners who may redevelop the 130-acre property
/
Spanning 130 acres along Gandy Boulevard, the shuttered Derby Lane greyhound racetrack has a new owner. The St. Pete Kennel Club Inc., which owns the property, has merged with Connecticut-based Rally Acquisition Co.
“The goal is to develop the 130-acre site in a way that benefits the community, while continuing the strong performance of the club’s gaming operations,” said Scott Esterbrook, an attorney representing Rally Acquisition, in an interview with the Tampa Bay Times, which first reported the news.
While specific redevelopment plans for the site at 10490 Gandy Boulevard North have not been disclosed, the new ownership recently secured a $58.25 million loan from Broadway Agency Services LLC.
Read More
Two years after Hurricane Helene devastated Willy’s Burgers & Booze, the St. Pete Beach watering hole is preparing for a comeback.
The open-air bar and restaurant at 645 Corey Avenue announced recently that construction is beginning following a lengthy permitting process.
A reopening date has not been announced.
“The road back has been anything but easy,” the business shared on Facebook. “We have spent the past 14 months working through the permitting process, navigating delays and obstacles, and doing everything we can to make this day possible.”
“There have been times when the process felt overwhelming, but we have never lost sight of what Willy’s means to so many people,” the post continued.
Known for its burgers, affordable drinks, and laid-back, beachy atmosphere, Willy’s has been closed since the hurricanes of late 2024.