Downtown Developer Calls it Quits: What’s Next?

Temple Terrace’s vision to have a redeveloped and revitalized downtown area may remain just a dream for some time to come.

The developer of the project, meant to give the city a true downtown area, has said it wants to call it quits, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

The Times article points to a letter filed with the city from Vlass Temple Terrace that cites a desire to terminate its part in the project.

“Clearly it is time for Vlass and the city to arrive at a fair and reasonable parting of the ways that addresses the developer's damages and leaves the redevelopment in the hands of the city staff or a new developer to complete,” the Times quoted the letter from Vlass attorney David Smith as saying.

The city and Vlass have been going back and forth on plans ever since the firm signed on to help with redevelopment in 2009. Vlass had agreed to build a $160 million complex that would include a residential area, retail, a cultural component and office space. The development is intended for the east side of 56th Street near Bullard Parkway.

Vlass and the city, however, couldn’t come to terms on details related to the project, most especially the residential portion.

In December, Temple Terrace Mayor Frank Chillura reported that a meeting between City Manager Kim Leinbach, himself and Vlass had been “productive.” A month later, city officials and Vlass vowed to make the project a win-win for both parties.

The Times says the city is now preparing a response to Vlass’ letter. It is unclear at this point if the relationship between the city and Vlass will come to an end.

Read the Times’ full story here.

Read more news about the downtown redevelopment project here.

What do you think the city should do? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

Stay with Temple Terrace Patch for updates as they become available.