Attachment_J-Excerpts-from-Mayors-Institute-2022.pdf

The document is an excerpt from the 75th National Session of the Mayors' Institute on City Design, held in Charleston, SC from May 18-20, 2022, focusing on urban design strategies for Tampa, Florida. The session specifically examines the transformation of an interstate on-ramp and surrounding city-owned sites near downtown Tampa, exploring ways to better connect the northern end of the city to the downtown and waterfront areas. The city aims to reimagine approximately 4 acres along Ashley Drive, including converting long, above-grade ramps into surface streets and creating a more desirable residential development area.

The document highlights key design considerations, including expanding the project's conceptual boundaries, thinking beyond housing to include complementary uses, concentrating ground floor retail, and creating meaningful connections to the neighborhood's rich history. The recommendations emphasize creating safe and joyous connections for residents, developing a compelling narrative for the area, and addressing design challenges such as traffic flow, pedestrian accessibility, and urban fabric integration. The resource team suggests strategies like breaking up city-owned blocks, activating ground floor spaces, and ensuring the development aligns with the city's vision for improved walkability and urban connectivity.