Eighty-One Miles and a Promise

It got me thinking about St. Pete. 

On Sunday, I rode my bike 81 miles. I road 80 last year so you can probably guess why 81. I like the challenge.  I needed to know I could still do it. And, like always, rides are a great time to think.

Riding that far takes preparation. I trained. I checked the weather. I tuned my bike. I packed water, snacks, and tools. I planned when to push and when to rest. It wasn’t just about distance—it was about doing it right.

During that time, as I rode, the future of St. Petersburg and the Gas Plant site popped up.  

What the Gas Plant Site Really Needs

The city has a rare chance to reshape the Gas Plant area after the Rays leave in 2028 (and maybe before). But first, it must be done with purpose.  

This is land with deep roots. Families were displaced years ago with promises that were never kept. Now, there’s a chance to do better.  .

Just like a long ride, this project needs planning. The city must ask:

• • What do the people of St. Pete truly need?

• • What kind of city are we building?

• • How do we include everyone?

Affordable housing matters. At the same time, so do jobs, local business growth, and community space. In short, it all starts with vision—and clear priorities.

Losing Focus on What Matters

Somewhere along the way, the city got focused on keeping the Rays and building a new stadium. That became the main goal. As a result, the bigger picture began to fade.  And as Mayor Welch said the Rays’ deal came with an “unprecedented amount of public funding.”

This isn’t just about baseball or big deals. Instead, it’s about people. It’s about righting past wrongs and building a future that works for everyone.

Therefore, we can’t lose sight of that.

Don’t Rush the Solution

One big question is how the site gets developed. Right now, it seems the plan might be to hand the project to one outside developer.  (As reported by the Tampa Bays Times, at least one former suitor wants back in.  

But is that the best path?

Maybe not.

Instead, the city could take a new approach. One that gives local voices more power. One that keeps control close to home. One that builds trust, not just towers.  Let’s do it right.

The Road Ahead

My 81-mile ride was tough, but it had a clear goal. I prepared. I stayed focused. I finished strong.

Likewise, the city has a chance to do the same. This project is a journey. It will take time, care, and listening. But with the right plan, it can become something great.

Stay tuned for more thoughts on how St. Pete can move forward—and why it’s time to think differently about who leads this once-in-a-generation project.

Let’s build something that works—for everyone.