Tampa City Council embraces Future Land Use Assessment recommendations

In the recent workshop held on September 28, 2023, the City of Tampa City Council came together to discuss the Future Land Use Assessment (FLU) and the recommendations provided by Plan Hillsborough consultant Pritchett Steinbeck Group (PSG) for the City’s development. The meeting, filled with lively discussions and public input, showcased a resounding sense of support for the proposed changes.

One of the most prominent takeaways from the workshop was the overall support from council members regarding the FLU recommendations. They acknowledged the potential for these recommendations to shape the future of Tampa in a positive way. Council expressed their collective intention to embrace and incorporate these recommendations into the City’s future planning. To address Council’s comments, it was clarified that the recommendations would be implemented through a two-pronged approach. Some changes, particularly those concerning parking requirements, would be integrated into the Land Development Code. The Comprehensive Plan would incorporate other recommendations simultaneously, ensuring a comprehensive and holistic approach to urban development.

Members of the public also had the opportunity to speak during the workshop and lent their support to the FLU recommendations. Their sentiments echoed Council’s enthusiasm for making Tampa a better place to live, work, and play.

Beyond the recommendations themselves, there was a shared desire for further exploration of place-based criteria and corridor planning opportunities. This reflects the City’s commitment to creating unique, vibrant neighborhoods and enhancing mobility and access within Tampa. Council members emphasized the need to design for people and create complete communities, agreeing the City’s future should not only be about regulation but also about improving the quality of life for its residents.

The workshop also saw council members express interest in several specific aspects, including considerations for Coastal High Hazard Areas (CHHA), the Residential-10 change (which clarifies where single-family attached units are allowed without increasing densities), and the need to clarify “Planning Districts.”

The City of Tampa City Council’s excitement about the FLU Assessment and its recommendations showcases a commitment to progressive, community-driven development. As we move forward, we will continue to engage with stakeholders and the public to ensure that the future of Tampa is bright and inclusive. Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting developments that will shape the city’s landscape for years to come.