Strategic Property Partners plans to develop a new entertainment district in downtown Tampa centered around a 3,500-seat live music and performance venue across from Benchmark International Arena.
The privately financed project is proposed for a vacant parcel on Channelside Drive between Morgan Street and Jefferson Street.
The site sits directly across from the arena and near the Riverwalk, the Tampa Convention Center and several downtown hotels.
Developers said the district is designed to expand the reach of Water Street Tampa and strengthen the area’s role as a central hub for concerts, sports and dining.
Why a mid-sized venue matters in Downtown Tampa
At the center of the project is a 3,500-seat venue aimed at filling a gap in Tampa’s live entertainment market.
The space is intended to host rising and mid-tier touring artists who often skip the region due to limited options between small clubs and large arenas.
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“The new venue will fill a void in downtown by offering a right-sized performance space that Tampa does not currently have,” Strategic Property Partners said in the announcement.
Developers said the venue would give artists an opportunity to build a local fan base before moving to larger venues such as the Yuengling Center, Benchmark International Arena or Raymond James Stadium.
Vinik Sports Group to manage venue
Strategic Property Partners plans to partner with Vinik Sports Group to manage the entertainment venue and integrate it into the broader Water Street Tampa ecosystem.
“Water Street Tampa was designed to evolve, and this entertainment district is the next step in completing the larger vision,” said Josh Taube, CEO of Strategic Property Partners. “This project activates the western edge of the neighborhood by adding entertainment energy through live music and cultural experiences.”
Vinik Sports Group manages the Tampa Bay Lightning and Benchmark International Arena and also oversees the Yuengling Center at the University of South Florida.
“Fans will see more shows, more often, and with greater variety,” said Steve Griggs, CEO of Vinik Sports Group. “A venue of this size provides much-needed flexibility for booking more artists and world-class shows to our region.”
Hotel, retail and parking planned
The proposed district also includes:
- a 250-room hotel
- about 100,000 sq ft of retail, dining and entertainment space
- more than 1,000 parking spaces
Developers said the project is intended to function as an all-day destination and extend activity beyond event nights at the arena.
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The plan would also extend Ford Thunder Alley across Channelside Drive, creating a more connected entertainment corridor.
City leaders support expansion
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said the project supports the city’s continued growth as an entertainment destination.
“This Water Street expansion moves Tampa forward as a top entertainment destination,” Castor said. “It strengthens tourism and creates new experiences for residents and visitors, all within steps of the Riverwalk and Convention Center.”
Timeline and next steps
Strategic Property Partners said it plans to break ground on the project in 2027.
Additional details on design, construction and tenants are expected as the project moves through planning and approvals.
