Developer Plans 18-Acre Marina District In Downtown Clearwater, FL.

Sponsored.

Developer RSR Capital Advisors has ambitious plans to transform 18-acres of Downtown Clearwater into a vibrant and modern mixed-use district. The developer plans to kick off the development with three architecturally significant projects designed by Gensler and BC Architects. These projects will set a precedent for the remainder of the Clearwater Marina District. The project includes parcels bordered by the city-owned Seminole Boat ramp and along a segment of the Blanche B Littlejohn and Pinellas Trails.

The developer believes the Clearwater Marina District will revitalize the immediate area and positively impact existing businesses in the surrounding downtown area. The proposal envisions a walkable, sustainable community consisting of luxury condos, a boutique hotel, modern office, retail uses, and affordable housing. RSR Capital Advisors will plan for an initial investment of $350 Million which will climb upwards of $1Billion+ once complete.

The vision for the Marina District is similar to the transformation that began in the Edge District in St. Petersburg a decade ago and continues today. Back then downtown St. Pete consisted of vacant storefronts but today it is one of the most popular downtown destinations in Florida due to similar investments in that community.

The development area (the site) is primarily located in the Old Bay District just north of Downtown Clearwater and is now incorporated into the North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area (CRA). The site is bordered by Osceola Avenue to the west along the Clearwater Harbor and to the east along N. Myrtle Ave which is serviced by the Route 70 public transit route, bike trail, and by Ferry.  The site is located a few minutes North of the Clearwater Memorial Causeway (to Clearwater beach), has access to the Seminole Boat Ramp, and within proximity to sites such as Jack Russell stadium and Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The map below shows site connectivity for greater context.

Formally approved in 2023, The North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Agency was created to develop solutions to address the underlying social and physical conditions that have affected the health and economic mobility of the neighborhood for decades. A successful CRA builds upon existing community strengths. The North Greenwood CRA is recognized for its many strengths, including active civic leadership, engaged community organizations, existing institutional services, natural environment, and location.

Improvements in this area would be funded by tax increment revenue from new projects in this district that will contribute to making this a well-funded CRA. Some of the improvements the Marina District will bring includes wider sidewalks, new crosswalks, landscaped public spaces, new bike lanes, as well as retail activation throughout the pedestrian realm. Slide the image below for context.

There are currently a total of 12 parcels which range in size from 0.44 to 2.18-acres. Three of the 12 total parcels are in the design development phase with one nearing the completion of the initial permitting phase. The Clearwater Marina District will also join a list of recently completed and ongoing projects with the development boundaries. The map below provides a sample of adjacent development for context. Here’s the quick rundown:

708 Osceola is a 6-story, 64-unit luxe condo development on the Clearwater Harbor waterfront. The project is located at the gateway of the Seminole boat ramp Seminole boat ramp near the corner of N. Osceola and Seminole Street. The project is minutes from the Clearwater Causeway which gets you to the popular Clearwater Aquarium and world-renowned Clearwater Beach.

708 Osceola is the first of the 3 projects that will kick off the larger Clearwater Marina District. Designed by BC Architects, the project is characterized by its distinct curves and infinity balconies which wrap the building. The project will feature a mix of 2 and 3-bedroom condo units with views of Clearwater Harbor and the surrounding Clearwater cityscape. Amenities include a pool deck with sun shelf, BBQ areas, golf lounge, and a large clubroom.

Located on the opposite side of the Seminole boat ramp gateway is the Atelier Osceola office development. Similar to 708 Osceola, the planned Class A Trophy Office space will rise 6 stories to frame the gateway to Clearwater Harbor.  Designed by Gensler, the exterior façade features dynamic glass curtain wall creating a jewel box which takes advantage of natural light during the day. The building also commands presence at night with proposed LED lights integrated in the window frames. The proposed building is 46,500 SF with shared facilities on each floor.

Situated at the corner of Cedar Street & North Fort Harrison is the modern Cedar Street Office. Located just two streets North of the Atelier, this sleek modern office will introduce new life into this corner of the district.  Also designed by Gensler, this unique 4-story is characterized by its undulating facade, dramatic cantilevers, and careful window wall design.

Each side of the building offers a different character, complementing the character of the surrounding neighborhood. The project also features artistic iridescent glazing which serves as a screen for the parking garage. The ground floor is also activated with a proposed 12,500 SF of street level retail/restaurant space. The office space comes in at 49,000 GSF with shared facilities on each level.

To learn more about the Clearwater marina District, visit www.theclearwatermarinadistrict.com.

Be sure to subscribe for more on this and other featured developments on CityNowNext.com!