TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Tampa City leaders unanimously approved a multi-million dollar investment Thursday to improve the Franklin Street corridor in downtown.
The project's goal is to revitalize that part of town, which was once a destination where many gathered to shop or see shows.
"Really to bring back the corridor to what it used to be, its former glory," said Karen Kress, senior director of transportation and planning for the Tampa Downtown Partnership. "Anyone who grew up in Tampa probably has a memory of coming to Tampa, coming to Franklin Street, and shopping and strolling and browsing and just kind of being seen. We think there is some good bones, but it’s really kind of just sat for decades."
The Franklin Street Action Plan aims to beautify the many blocks of Franklin Street from Jackson Street through Scott Street.
The Community Redevelopment Agency presented the $6 million dollar plan to city council Thursday.
The plan includes incentives for preserving historic buildings, updating some of the infrastructure, restoring brick streets, adding green spaces, café lights, artistic crosswalks and new landscaping.
"You see how crowded and busy the Riverwalk is. There really is a pent up demand for that safe, kind of hang-out, outdoor space," Kress said.