So Tampa

Plans for 33-acre Ybor Harbor receive initial approval from Tampa City Council

April 12, 2024
• By Andrew Harlan

April 12, 2024
• By Andrew Harlan

A major transformative development is in the works for Historic Ybor City. A rezoning application for Ybor Harbor, a dynamic new 33-acre mixed-use waterfront development surrounding Ybor Channel and located just south of Adamo Dr., got the initial green light from Tampa City Council on April 11. The project, at the northern terminus of Ybor Channel, is an undertaking by Darryl Shaw.

“Ybor Harbor is a transformative new addition to the fabric stitching together our urban neighborhoods from Ybor City to the Channel District, Water Street, Gas Worx, and our downtown core. Our focus is on creating a vibrant neighborhood, enhancing connectivity, and bringing the public to our city’s cherished waterfront,” said Shaw.

At build-out, Ybor Harbor could include up to 6-million square feet of residential, office, hotel and retail space. Working with Port Tampa Bay, the Ybor Harbor plans envision opening a section of waterfront to the public that is currently restricted. Activation will include a boardwalk lined with restaurant and retail uses, piers, boat slips, floating docks and green space.

Maximizing walkability in Historic Ybor City

“We have seen the immense benefits to the community by thoughtfully investing in opening up our city’s waterfront over the last decade. I am excited to see a vision for Ybor Harbor that continues that work and further activates our natural environment,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor.

Building heights within Ybor Harbor will vary with the maximum determined by the Federal Aviation Authority, as the project is located entirely outside the Ybor City Historic District.

The team working on Ybor Harbor includes the engineering firm Stantec, transportation consultant Randy Coen of Coen & Company, real estate attorney Tyler Hudson of Gardner Brewer Hudson, P.A., Arborist Ricky Peterika of Dark Moss, and development consultant Of Place.

The Ybor Harbor project is still a long way from breaking ground. More detailed site plans will go before council for approval over the next several weeks.