Preserving Progress Village: A collaborative effort between the Planning Commission and USF

The Planning Commission recently teamed up with the University of South Florida’s (USF) Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) Fall Studio class for a groundbreaking project aimed at preserving the rich history of Progress Village. This collaborative effort focuses on cataloging and showcasing the community’s historically and culturally significant places.

Throughout the Fall semester, the students diligently worked to identify and document sites that contribute to Progress Village’s unique identity. Their research culminated in the creation of an interactive online Story Map that highlights these significant locations, providing a virtual journey through the area’s past and present. This initiative directly supports the Palm River-Progress Village Community Plan, which emphasizes the importance of preserving the historic identity of this vibrant community. By combining academic research with community planning goals, the project exemplifies how collaboration can bring meaningful preservation efforts to life.

Currently in its final stages of development, the Story Map is expected to be available to the public in 2025 through the USF Libraries Digital Collections. Once accessible, it will serve as a valuable resource for residents, researchers and anyone interested in exploring the legacy of Progress Village.

Stay tuned for updates as this project moves closer to its debut, offering a lasting tribute to the heritage of one of Hillsborough County’s most historic neighborhoods.