For the first time in over two decades, the City of St. Petersburg is developing a new master plan to revitalize the underutilized Port of St. Pete.

Unveiled at a public open house on June 25, three early concept plans outline potential improvements to the aging facility and 4.4 acres of nearby land just south of downtown. However, city officials emphasized these ideas are only preliminary and do not represent finalized plans.

The proposed concepts include expansions into Bayboro Harbor, featuring a mix of infrastructure upgrades, green space, and new facilities. However, before any shovels hit the ground, the city will need to navigate a complex web of federal permitting, which could slow or even block certain elements.

“Some concepts might be relatively easy,” said David Wirth, Enterprise Facilities Manager. “Others — especially those extending into the federal channel — could literally require an act of Congress.”

St. Petersburg hired maritime consulting firm Moffatt & Nichol in January 2023 to lead the planning effort. A final master plan and reinvestment strategy is expected in December.

The port, located in the city’s Innovation District, currently includes a 1,200-foot wharf, two buildings, and a surface parking lot. It’s surrounded by key institutions, including the U.S. Coast Guard, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, USF’s College of Marine Science, and Albert Whitted Airport. USF’s College of Nursing also leases one of the port buildings, which is undergoing roof repairs after storm damage.

Wirth said it’s time to reimagine the port’s role in the city’s future: “We definitely need something new. But we’re not investing heavily right now unless it’s absolutely necessary.”

The port occasionally hosts large yachts and a seasonal cruise line. It also briefly served as a terminal for the Cross Bay Ferry, though future ferry services will likely operate from the St. Pete Pier.

The draft mission for the master plan is to transform Port St. Pete into a “dynamic, resilient and multi-use waterfront district,” leveraging its maritime potential to fuel sustainable growth in research, recreation, innovation, and tourism.

The three concepts include:

• Concept 1: A focus on recreational boating, tourism, shopping, and dining.
• Concept 2: Emphasis on marine industry and ship maintenance with a second innovation hub. It’s the most expensive but also offers the highest potential return.
• Concept 3: An expansion of research and innovation facilities, increased green space, and improved cruise amenities. It’s the most affordable and considered the most iconic.

Stakeholder input remains central to the planning process. A final public workshop and a new community poll are scheduled for October.

“We want the port to be a year-round asset for the community,” Wirth said.

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(Image credit: St. Pete Catalyst)

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