Hillsborough County Plans Transformative Indoor Sports Complex at MOSI Site

TAMPA, FL – A new chapter in Hillsborough County’s recreational landscape is set to unfold as county planners have pinpointed the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) site as the prime location for a 175,000-square-foot indoor sports complex**.

MOSI Site: A Winning Choice

Out of several evaluated options, the MOSI property emerged as the standout location:

• Strategic Location: Centrally located with easy access to Interstates 275 and 75 and public transit options, making it convenient for visitors.
• Cost-Effective Land Use: The county already owns the 74-acre MOSI property, eliminating acquisition costs and legal complexities.
• Future Development: A firm has been selected to revitalize the site by developing a center for science, technology, and innovation alongside residential, retail, and hospitality spaces.

Economic Impact

Commissioner Ken Hagan refers to this initiative as a "transformative opportunity." He noted:

"By building the indoor facility on the MOSI property… this will be the catalyst for the most transformative economic development project Hillsborough County has ever been associated with.”

The project is estimated to generate a whopping $2 billion in economic activity, with benefits such as:

• 44,000 hotel room nights annually.
• $24.5 million in direct spending by event attendees.
• $790,000 in annual revenue for the county’s Tourism Development Council.

Development Synergy

The integration of an indoor sports facility into the broader MOSI redevelopment plan not only optimizes land use but also accelerates revitalization efforts in the Uptown Corridor. This area holds potential for substantial growth, especially with the upcoming University of South Florida football stadium.

Commissioner Chris Boles emphasized the potential for synergy in the area:

"This would continue to get that synergy to keep it going."

Reduced Land Requirements

The initial plan required 15 acres, but by integrating with the MOSI redevelopment, only 6 acres will be needed for the sports complex. This shared parking and operational strategy further enhances the project’s feasibility.

Community Benefits

The installation of an indoor sports complex will serve the needs of local families:

“These complexes are big business,” stated Hagan, reflecting on his personal experiences with youth sports expenses.

Funding and Future Directions

Initial design work for this ambitious project will utilize $2 million in BP oil spill settlement proceeds. Other funding sources may include the Community Investment Tax and Tourist Development Tax reserves.

Conclusion

Hillsborough County is poised to make a significant leap in its sports and recreation offerings by placing the indoor sports complex at the MOSI site. This move not only promises enhanced local facilities for athletics but also catalyzes long-term economic growth for the region.

For more in-depth coverage of local development and initiatives, stay tuned to the latest updates from Hillsborough County.

By tapping into these opportunities, Hillsborough County sets a precedent for future sports and recreational facilities, ensuring a thriving community for all residents.