Hillsborough County has committed $24 million to enhance infrastructure and safety for the University of South Florida’s burgeoning Fletcher District. This significant investment is set to bolster transportation improvements along Fletcher Avenue, paving the way for a mixed-use development on the former USF golf course. Concurrently, plans are advancing for the repurposing of the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) land, signaling a major transformation for this part of Tampa.
Key Takeaways
- Hillsborough County allocates $24 million for infrastructure and safety in USF’s Fletcher District.
- The Fletcher District, a mixed-use development on the former USF golf course, is slated for a phased opening starting in summer 2028.
- The MOSI site is undergoing a land-use change to facilitate mixed-use redevelopment, including potential 10-story buildings.
- Combined public and private investments are expected to create a new economic hub around USF.
Fletcher District Development
The $24 million from Hillsborough County will fund crucial infrastructure along Fletcher Avenue, including roadway upgrades, new turn lanes, traffic enhancements, and a pedestrian bridge connecting the main campus to the new district. This funding complements $31 million previously allocated by the state for broader development around USF’s east campus, including $8 million for the USF Health Translational Research Institute.
The Fletcher District itself, spanning 138 acres, will see its first phase on 27 acres. Construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2026, with the district opening in summer 2028. Plans include:
- Student housing with 696 beds
- 150 multifamily apartments
- A 150-room hotel and conference center
- Approximately 60,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space
Private developers are expected to invest around $269 million in the first phase. This development is projected to generate about $500 million in construction spending and create approximately 250 permanent jobs, contributing an estimated $15 million in annual recurring economic activity.
MOSI Land Repurposing
Meanwhile, the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) site is also poised for significant redevelopment. A proposed land-use change aims to consolidate the property’s designations to Public and Semi-Public, aligning with its long-standing institutional function. This change is a precursor to a rezoning process that could allow for denser residential and commercial development.
Concept plans for the MOSI site include:
- Mixed-use buildings, some reaching 10 stories
- A hotel
- Structured parking and public green spaces
- A walkable retail corridor
This redevelopment is part of a larger vision to transform the area around USF into a vibrant destination, integrating education, research, events, and tourism. The combined efforts, including the new USF stadium and Moffitt Cancer Center’s expansion, are expected to create a dynamic economic corridor for Tampa Bay.
Sources
- Hillsborough commits $24M for roads, safety at USF Fletcher District, Tampa Bay Business & Wealth.
- Tampa board weighs MOSI land use change, Tampa Bay Business & Wealth.
- MOSI redevelopment plan shows mixed-use district, hotel, Tampa Bay Business & Wealth.