Pinellas County is moving forward with plans to redevelop 17 county-owned properties spanning more than 30 parcels in downtown Clearwater, and local business owners are watching closely to see what the transformation will mean for them.
The county has opened the door to developers, giving them 90 days to submit redevelopment proposals. Officials plan to narrow those submissions to a single finalist before hosting public discussions on the chosen plan. The properties slated for redevelopment include the current courthouse and multiple county buildings along Court Street.
Blaine Williams, assistant county administrator for Pinellas County, said the goal is a mixed-use project that activates the downtown corridor for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
For some longtime merchants, the prospect is both exciting and uncertain. Ariane Barrera, an employee at Loreama’s Boutique — which has operated in Clearwater for more than two decades — said she hopes redevelopment brings a wider variety of businesses and attractions to the area, while ensuring that existing shops aren’t left behind.
“If we see more businesses and places that are diverse, I think that draws more people in,” Barrera said, adding that adequate parking and accessible spaces will be essential to keeping current businesses viable during and after the transition.
The redevelopment is expected to be carried out in phases. County officials say they are seeking community input as the process moves forward.
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