Trails Crossing, a new linear park under I-275 in downtown St. Pete, moves forward after City Council vote

A vision rendering for the Trails Crossing project | fRIENDS OF tRAILS cROSSING

Four blocks of underutilized space beneath Interstate 275 in downtown St. Pete could be transformed into a new linear park featuring public art and event spaces, creating a destination for pedestrians and cyclists.

In a 7-to-1 vote, City Council approved an agreement on Thursday to contribute $150,000 toward hiring Colorado-based LandDesign, Inc. to kick off the master planning process for Trails Crossing, a walkable, activated park under I-275 that will embrace micro-transit and connect urban neighborhoods—an idea that has been in discussion for years.

“For too long, our community has been physically, socially, and economically divided by infrastructure that was never designed with connectivity in mind,” said John Barkett, a local developer and co-founder of the nonprofit group Friends of Trails Crossing, during Thursday’s meeting.

A vision site plan for the Trails Crossing project | fRIENDS OF tRAILS cROSSING

“The space under I-275 has been an underutilized barrier, but with this plan, we have the power to redefine it as a place of connection,” Barkett continued.

The master plan will lay the groundwork for the project's infrastructure blueprint and provide a phased approach with recommended action items.

The first phase of the project will extend from 1st Avenue South to 3rd Avenue South, with plans to eventually stretch from 5th Avenue North to 5th Avenue South, reconnecting downtown St. Petersburg’s North and South districts via illuminated walkways.

The new public recreational space will complement nearby districts, including the Grand Central District, EDGE District, Warehouse Arts District, and the forthcoming Historic Gas Plant District.

The Trails Crossing project would connect urban neighborhoods | Friends of Trails cROSSING

The proposal includes amenities such as a dog park, repurposed container buildings with retail and restaurant spaces, walking and biking paths, a children’s play area, a beer garden, murals, and more.

Council member Sandra Figgs-Sanders cast the lone opposing vote, expressing concern that the project could negatively impact parking for Vertical Ventures, an indoor rock-climbing gym located at 116 18th Street South, which currently uses parking that would be converted into park space under the new plan.

“It’s hard to support something that might put another business out of business,” Figgs-Sanders said, noting that reduced parking would deter customers.

Vertical Ventures currently leases surface parking from the City of St. Pete and has less than a year remaining on its existing lease, though it can be extended.

City staff assured Figgs-Sanders and other council members that Thursday’s approval is only for the start of the master planning phase and that final plans will also require City Council approval.

“The scope of services for the consultant includes ensuring we have thorough stakeholder engagement and enough time for everyone to understand their needs and what's possible,” said Cheryl Stacks, City Transportation Manager.

Council member Mike Harting mentioned that he has had ongoing discussions with Vertical Ventures assuring them that the city is mindful of their parking needs.

“It’s not about whether it will work for Vertical Ventures, but how it will work,” said Council member Gina Driscoll. “I want to make sure they are set up for continued success.”

LandDesign, the firm selected to create the master plan, submitted a bid to the city in 2023 in response to a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for professional planning services. Other consultants, including North Carolina-based Kimley Horn and Orlando-based Chen Moore, also submitted proposals.

Working alongside Friends of Trails Crossing, LandDesign will gather data, review existing use agreements for the I-275 space, develop a project website, and conduct extensive community outreach through stakeholder interviews.

Over the past few years, Friends of Trails Crossing Inc. has held numerous meetings with community members. The group will also contribute the remainder of the $300,000 cost for the master planning services and will play a key role in managing, operating, and governing Trails Crossing in the future.

“This is more than just a park; it’s a cultural landmark in the making,” Barkett added. “With thoughtful design and strategic investment, we can transform this corridor into a vibrant, accessible, and inclusive destination for both visitors and residents.”

Once the master plan is complete, Friends of Trails Crossing will work with the city to secure funding for construction. It is estimated the construction is likely several years away and will happen in collaboration with the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District.