TAMPA – Over the past five years, Tampa Bay has seen a surge in population growth. And of course, the increase has driven a wave of new developments.
Other apartments, condominiums, retail and commercial developments are underway, from Water Street in downtown Tampa to Gas Wax in Eversity and the historic gas factory district in St. Petersburg. But with the continued impact of storms, sea level rise and other effects of climate change continuing to affect Tampa Bay and beyond, how can our communities continue to grow in ways that protect our future?
The Tampa Bay Times will collaborate with Tampa Electric to host a free community conversation on responsible sustainable development in the region at the upcoming event, Tampa Bay: Growth Sustainability. The forum will be held on May 7th at Feeding at Tampa Bay, 3624 Causeway Blvd., Tampa at 5pm.
Conan Gallaty, chairman and CEO of Times Publishing Co., said, “Tampa Bay Times is proud to connect Sound and Sealth Leaders with the community and host this conversation on sustainability and innovation.
Local experts and community leaders will be taking part in a panel discussion on the need for development and construction innovation as the Tampa Bay landscape continues to evolve.
Visitors are encouraged to come early to enjoy an interactive resource centre with displays from local organizations, including Tampa Electric’s Energy Conservation Team, Tampa Bay Times, Tampa Bay Economic Development Council, Tampa City Friends Union Station, Tampa City Green Team, USF City and Regional Planning Program, Uritampa Bay and Pran Hillsborough. Enjoy tasting from the catering team feeding Tampa Bay. Meet the business reporter behind the headline.
A panel discussion will begin at 6pm, moderated by Tampa Bay Times real estate reporter Rebecca Leepson. Panelists include Kartik Goyani, vice president of operations at Metro Development Group. Melissa Zornitta, executive director of Pranhillsboro. Taylor Ralph, president and founder of Real Building Consultants LLC. Casey Ellison, CEO of Ellison Company. Abby Feely, manager of development and economic opportunities in Tampa.
“We’re excited to be able to help you get started,” said Stephanie Smith, vice president of state and regional affairs at Tampa Electric. “Our energy solutions are crucial to the development of Tampa Bay. By partnering with the communities we serve, we are actively working together to shape it rather than simply promoting a future of sustainable growth.”
Participants must register in advance at Tampabay.com/spotlight. Admission and parking are free.
