The first design workshop began with the InVision Tampa team reviewing five dominant wants from residents and business owners that emerged during neighborhood charettes and Knowledge Exchanges: 

1. Provide more access to the Hillsborough River’s waterfront
2. Protect and expand historic neighborhoods
3. Grow the urban core as an entertainment and residential center
4. Design streets that cater to walkers and bikers, not just cars
5. Invest in more transportation options for downtown neighborhoods

We noticed one overwhelming theme here: balance, whether it’s between pedestrians and cars, or new development and historic preservation. Many of our downtown’s problems can be addressed by striking the right balance.

Later during the workshop, attendees were divided into five smaller groups to tackle these issues. The groups echoed each other saying, if Tampa is to succeed, developments need to keep in mind future end-users and multigenerational growth—no more short-sighted solutions.

At our next workshop, we’ll be unveiling preliminary design sketches and concepts that will lead to a  blueprint for our city center.

Join us Thursday, July 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Universityof Tampa Crescent Club(9^th Floor of the Vaughn Center). Be sure to RSVP to InVisionTampa@gmail.com, and we hope to see you there!