Pinellas County is advancing a mixed-use redevelopment opportunity in downtown Clearwater across 32 parcels on 17 county-owned properties, totaling approximately 24.5 acres. The site presents a rare opportunity to shape a more connected, walkable downtown district.
Pinellas County Government has issued a request for negotiations to identify a qualified master developer to lead the site’s transformation. The selected partner will be expected to deliver a financially feasible, design-sensitive development that integrates residential, commercial, hospitality, civic and public space uses.
The redevelopment effort is intended to generate revenue to offset the cost of a new county campus, support long-term downtown activation and increase both the county and city tax base. Pinellas County will establish a structured agreement with clear performance expectations to ensure accountability over time.
This effort aligns with the county’s broader modernization strategy, including the planned relocation of government functions to a new Administration and Judicial Complex by 2028. The parcels were declared surplus in March 2026, providing greater certainty on redevelopment timing.
The county is coordinating with the city of Clearwater and is seeking experienced teams capable of delivering phased, large-scale, mixed-use development. CBRE is serving as the real estate advisor.
- Create an activated, mixed-use downtown that functions both as a local hub and as a destination for vacation beach visitors on “days 3 to 5” when they are ready for a beach alternative.
- Diversify the local economy by encouraging new industries such as marine, technology and creative sectors to complement the existing tourism base.
- Support development with ownership and occupancy conditions that ensure long-term mixed-use continuity and tax base expansion.
- Strengthen connectivity between downtown, the waterfront, the beach, Cleveland Street and Osceola Avenue.
- Build on city and county capital investments to leverage existing momentum for redevelopment.
- Require deed restrictions for permitted and restricted uses and strict development and occupancy timelines with reverter clauses if timelines and occupancy standards are not met.
What Development Must Include
- Provide active frontages that incorporate shade and seating, including welcoming and transparent façades.
- Present a plan to incorporate the Historic Courthouse through preservation and/or adaptive reuse consistent with historic standards.
- Extend the development progress of recent public investments, such as Coachman Park, into adjacent blocks with cohesive streetscape and green infrastructure.
- Integrate wayfinding, public art and mid-block connections to enhance permeability and access to the waterfront.
- Meet the Downtown Design Overlay’s expectations for pedestrian safety and comfort.
- Provide contextual massing within DTC/SG height limits, including step-downs and transitions to adjacent neighborhoods.
Pinellas County, located on Florida’s west-central coast, is widely recognized for its tourism industry and award-winning beaches. With 35 miles of white sand shoreline, including Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach and Fort De Soto Park, Pinellas County attracts millions of visitors each year and generates significant economic activity. In addition to its coastal assets, the area offers a strong cultural environment, anchored by destinations such as the Salvador Dalí Museum, the Chihuly Collection and Tarpon Springs. Major events include the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival and the Valspar Championship, which further reinforce the county’s position as a year-round destination.
The county supports a diverse and stable economy with more than 48,000 businesses employing nearly 470,000 people. Key employment centers are located in downtown St. Petersburg, Clearwater and the mid-county area, with a mix of retail, office and manufacturing sectors. Regional connectivity is supported by multiple bridge crossings, including the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and three east-west connections to Hillsborough County. The Howard Frankland Bridge expansion further strengthens regional mobility.
Pinellas County is also served by strong air transportation infrastructure. St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport recorded 2.45 million passengers in 2024, marking a record year following national recognition by the Transportation Security Administration. Tampa International Airport, located nearby, offers approximately 260 daily departures and 90 nonstop destinations. Planned expansion at Tampa International Airport, including the addition of Airside D by 2028, will further increase capacity for domestic and international travel.
The city of Clearwater continues to invest in public infrastructure, cultural amenities and economic development initiatives that support long-term growth. The Clearwater 2045 Comprehensive Plan, adopted in January 2024, establishes a 20-year vision focused on quality places, mobility, parks and public spaces, conservation and coastal management, support services and implementation. Current and planned projects aligned with this vision include:
Despite being the second smallest county in Florida by land area, Pinellas County is the most densely populated, with more than 960,000 residents. This density supports active urban centers in Clearwater and St. Petersburg, contributing to a dynamic environment that combines economic opportunity, cultural amenities and coastal lifestyle.