In Treasure Island, Florida, city commissioners and residents are actively discussing a proposed Planned Development ordinance that could significantly impact future redevelopment projects. The ordinance, which is under review again this Tuesday, aims to introduce a process allowing property owners or developers to propose custom development plans for specific sites.
Community Concerns Over Development
While supporters believe the ordinance would provide the city with greater flexibility in reviewing redevelopment projects, some residents and commissioners express concerns about potential changes to the island’s character. Many fear that the ordinance could lead to higher-density developments, transforming Treasure Island into a high-rise beach community akin to Clearwater Beach.
The debate is particularly fueled by plans to rebuild the historic Thunderbird Beach Resort, which suffered hurricane damage. The proposal includes replacing the current two and three-story hotel buildings with a new four-story resort, increasing the number of rooms from 106 to 184. Supporters argue that rebuilding the hotel is crucial for the island’s recovery and economic growth.
Proposed Changes to Development Rules
To accommodate the larger hotel, the resort’s owner has requested amendments to height regulations for hotels and motels in certain resort districts. The proposed changes would increase the maximum hotel height from 60 feet to 80 feet and allow larger redevelopment projects in designated resort areas. Importantly, these changes would not apply to single-family homes, condominiums, or vacation rentals.
Property owners emphasize that redevelopment efforts aim to maintain Treasure Island’s core values and charm. “We’re not looking to propose a high-rise, we’re not looking to become Clearwater Beach, we are not looking to become Miami Beach. We want to remain Treasure Island, coastal, charming, and in harmony with the landscape that already exists,” stated Donna Jolimore from Thunderbird.
Future Discussions and Decisions
Despite some residents supporting the Thunderbird’s rebuilding, there is opposition to broader rule changes that could affect future projects across the island. Critics argue that increasing height limits and creating more flexible development rules could permanently alter Treasure Island’s character, leading to a skyline similar to Clearwater Beach or St. Pete Beach.
City commissioners have not yet reached a final decision on the proposed ordinance, and discussions are expected to continue. The meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m. on Tuesday at the city hall chambers on Gulf Blvd, will address the Planned Development ordinance as one of the primary topics.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
