Let’s take a look at everything that’s happening in the Tampa Bay area, what’s coming up in the next few weeks and months, and how Ready Stays is here for your month-to-month rental needs in Tampa.
Tampa Bay Construction and Projects
The Tampa Bay Rays have indicated they’ll fund at least 50% of the costs of a new ballpark, and mixed-use redevelopment in the heart of Tampa, due to open in 2029. Newly-appointed Rays CEO, Ken Babby, has spoken openly about plans to open the ballpark, while discussing how leadership is approaching the future of the team. Describing the strain the Rays are under, Babby said: “In North America, at least in my eyes, there’s not a professional sports team that is in more crisis and has more headwinds than the Tampa Bay Rays.” The new development will hopefully prove to be the jolt of energy needed by the Rays, with Babby pointing out the tax base growth and sustained economic activity tied to the project: “we need the community to come together.”
The University of Tampa is set to begin construction on a new Science Center this spring. The Center, which will be located along the Hillsborough River, will expand on the current science teaching and research offerings at the University’s downtown riverfront campus. According to the University’s website, the Center “will feature state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories that foster collaboration, interdisciplinary learning and discovery.” The project represents the “most significant” academic investment in the institution’s 94-year history. Opening is scheduled for Spring 2029.
Delta Air Lines has announced plans to relocate and expand its Sky Club at Tampa Airport in 2028. The move is linked with the airport’s newly-expanded Airside D, Tampa’s first new airside terminal in almost 20 years. Delta continues to invest heavily in its Sky Club locations following its centennial year in 2025. The airline plans to open new locations across several U.S markets, and upgrade existing Clubs.
Community and Innovation in Tampa
Staying put at the airport for a moment more, TPA has announced it will invest almost $6 million in new public art, and has issued a Call for Artists to produce work for the expansion of the Airside D terminal. Chief Commercial Officer Chris Minner said: “Tampa International Airport is growing its award-winning art collection by seeking the participation of local, state, national and international artists. The new works of art will be original, creative and help us welcome the tens of millions of travelers TPA hosts each year.”
Pinellas County Commissioner Brian Scott gave Tampa Bay Business & Wealth an insight into how tourism tax dollars are spent. According to state law, the money can only be used to fund tourism. Explaining that Pinellas collects a 6% bed tax on hotel rooms and short-term rental stays, Scott said: “The real and leading indicator of all that is heads in beds.” Scott also spoke about the huge project in 2025 to replenish sand on Pinellas beaches, an effort which cost $127 million. So, when you’re enjoying your time here, you can rest assured that the money you spend will be making Tampa even more wonderful, in time for your next trip.
The economic impact of the University of South Florida has reached almost $10 billion a year, including around $7 billion specifically in Tampa Bay. A new report contained analysis that highlighted the returns USF delivers for students, taxpayers, employers and communities across several areas, including research innovation, healthcare, workforce development, and alumni productivity. USF Board of Trustees Chairman Will Weatherford focused on praise for the USF team: “Our students, faculty, staff, alumni, community partners and friends have long known what the rest of the country is quickly learning, there is no stopping Bulls Nation when we work together, and the Tampa Bay region, the state of Florida, and our nation are better for it.”
Popular restaurant chain Wing It On! is set to open its first Tampa location this year. The four-time National Buffalo Wing Festival champion will bring all the wing goodness you could ask for to 6602 E. MLK Jr. Blvd. Diners can look forward to such delicious sauces as hickory BBQ, lemon pepper, honey heat, Nashville BBQ, and of course the classic Buffalo, as well as chicken tenders, crispy chicken sandwiches, loaded fries, and more. Napkins at the ready!
New York City FC has named Visit Tampa Bay as one of its official tourism partners. Launching this week as NYCFC starts training in Tampa’s SportsPlex, training ground of the Tampa Bay Rowdies, fans will be given a look at the collaboration ahead of the season. Visit Tampa Bay’s presence will be felt across NYCFC’s digital platforms and in-stadium activations. President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay, Santiago C. Corrada said: “As the premier soccer club in our top domestic market, we look forward to sharing the story of Tampa Bay with fans in New York City and beyond.”
Ready Stays is Here to Help!
Whether you plan on visiting beautiful Tampa Bay to start a new job, to work on one of the many construction projects, or simply to take advantage of all the exciting developments, Ready Stays can provide you with your home away from home. Located throughout Tampa, our apartments come fully furnished with everything you’ll need for a safe, comfortable stay.
And what’s more, our contract-free stays means you won’t be tied in for longer than you need to be. You’re in complete control of how long you spend in our beautiful city.
Our friendly, knowledgeable team is on hand to answer any questions you might have, so get in touch today on 813-358-1538. We look forward to welcoming you to Tampa
