Hillsborough County officials are actively addressing complex land use and development issues, balancing public safety needs with community desires and economic opportunities. Recent discussions and decisions highlight a dynamic approach to managing county resources and shaping future growth across the region.
Key Takeaways
- A significant land swap proposal involving the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) aims to relocate operations and unlock redevelopment potential in Ybor City.
- Residents in Keystone are voicing strong opposition to new townhome developments, citing concerns over rural character and infrastructure strain.
- Exploration into developing a sports complex, potentially including an ice rink, at the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) site is underway.
Sheriff’s Office Land Swap and Ybor City Redevelopment
Hillsborough County Commissioners are considering a substantial land swap that would see the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center move from its current Ybor City location to a 140,000-square-foot facility near Brandon. This move is presented as a strategic opportunity to secure the Sheriff’s Office’s future infrastructure needs while simultaneously opening up the eight-block Ybor City campus for mixed-use redevelopment. County officials and Sheriff Chad Chronister have expressed enthusiasm for the proposal, citing the aging Ybor facility’s limitations and the potential for significant taxpayer value by utilizing an existing, high-quality facility. Developer Darryl Shaw is involved in the transaction, expressing interest in collaborating for the benefit of taxpayers and the community.
Keystone Residents Resist Townhome Development
In northwest Hillsborough County, residents of Keystone are expressing frustration and pushing back against a newly approved D.R. Horton townhome project. The plan, which includes 127 townhomes and commercial space on 13 acres at Van Dyke and Tobacco roads, has been met with strong opposition from the Keystone Civic Association. Residents argue that the development threatens the area’s rural character, strains existing infrastructure, and contradicts the local community plan. County Commissioner Chris Boles acknowledged the challenges local governments face due to recent state legislation, such as the Live Local Act, which he stated has limited counties’ ability to control development and enforce local land-use controls. Residents are calling for stronger local protections and accountability from county leaders.
Exploring Sports Facilities at MOSI
Hillsborough County is also studying the feasibility of developing a sports complex at the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) site. Discussions have included the potential for an ice hockey rink as part of this complex. This initiative represents an effort to explore new uses for county land and potentially enhance recreational opportunities within the region.
Sources
- Darryl Shaw closes on land swap with Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, The Business Journals.
- Hillsborough leaders look at land swap proposal involving Sheriff’s Office, Tampa Bay 28.
- Keystone residents push back against townhome development, Bay News 9.
- What’s next for MOSI property? Hillsborough leaders suggest ice hockey, Tampa Bay Times.
- Hillsborough County explores ice rink at MOSI sports complex, The Business Journals.