Hillsborough County is actively exploring significant investments in recreational facilities and community projects. Plans are underway to potentially develop a large indoor sports complex on the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) property, alongside discussions about outdoor recreation areas and a controversial land use change in Dover. These initiatives aim to boost economic development and enhance community amenities.
Key Takeaways
- A substantial indoor sports complex is being considered for the MOSI property, featuring numerous basketball and volleyball courts.
- The county is also looking into separate outdoor recreation facilities.
- A proposed change to land use rules in Dover could allow for commercial and industrial development before alternative energy facilities are built.
- Funding for the sports complex is expected to come from BP oil spill settlement money and tourist bed taxes.
Proposed Indoor Sports Complex at MOSI
Hillsborough County is evaluating the construction of a major indoor sports complex on land it owns, currently shared with the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) in north Tampa. This proposed 175,000-square-foot facility would house 12 indoor basketball courts and 24 volleyball courts. Commissioner Ken Hagan is a strong proponent of the project, viewing it as a significant economic driver. He estimates the overall project, when combined with potential outdoor recreation areas, could represent a transformative economic development opportunity for the county, potentially valued at $2 billion. The construction is slated to be funded through settlement money from the 2010 BP oil spill and tourist bed taxes. County commissioners are scheduled to discuss the plan further in an upcoming workshop.
Exploring Additional Recreational Options
Beyond the MOSI complex, Commissioner Hagan has expressed interest in developing separate outdoor recreation areas elsewhere in the county. These facilities are also anticipated to be highly successful and contribute to the county’s recreational offerings. The county is also reportedly studying the feasibility of incorporating an ice rink into the MOSI sports complex plans, indicating a broad vision for diverse athletic and recreational opportunities.
Dover Land Rule Change Sparks Community Concern
In Dover, landowners are working to clarify a proposed change to land use rules for a parcel designated as an "Energy Industrial Park" (EIP) since 2010. The original rules required the construction of alternative energy facilities before any commercial, retail, or industrial spaces could be developed. A group of landowners has requested a modification to allow for the development of these other spaces first. This potential rule change has raised concerns among local residents about increased construction, its impact on the aquifer, and traffic on surrounding roads. Landowners argue the change would attract developers and could include mandates for solar panels on any warehouse structures. The application is set to be reviewed by the Hillsborough County Planning Commission in June, followed by a final decision from the county commission.
Pickleball Court Moratorium Considered
In related news concerning recreational facilities, Hillsborough County is also considering a pause on permits for new pickleball courts, particularly those located near residential areas. This move comes amid discussions about the impact of such facilities on neighborhoods.
Sources
- Hillsborough County ponders an indoor sports complex on MOSI property, WUSF.
- Hillsborough County explores ice rink at MOSI sports complex, The Business Journals.
- Indoor sports complex could soon be coming to MOSI property, Tampa Bay Times.
- Hillsborough County may pause pickleball court permits near homes, The Business Journals.
- Landowners work to clear up confusion about Dover land rule change, Tampa Bay 28.