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Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency Wins Four Awards from the Planning Commission

The City of Tampa's Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) took home four top honors at The Planning Commission's 43rd Annual Planning & Design Awards last week. The annual event recognizes projects that enhance quality of life, strengthen economic development, and preserve the region's natural and historic assets.

This year, the Tampa CRA was recognized for its commitment to revitalization, innovation, and community impact through the following award-winning projects:

• Kid Mason Community Center Renovations (Downtown CRA)

Planning & Design Award of Excellence - Entertainment Category

The Kid Mason Community Center revitalization project celebrates the rich history of Tampa's Central Park community by creating a welcoming, inclusive space that supports youth programs, recreation, and neighborhood gatherings.

• The Skills Center (East Tampa CRA)

Planning & Design Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Community - Investment Category

The Skills Center provides youth and families with a dynamic environment for learning, leadership development, and community engagement, representing a significant investment in the future of East Tampa.

• Historic 7th Avenue Bricking Project (Ybor City CRA)

Planning & Design Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Community
Jan Abell Award - Historic Preservation Category

This project meticulously restored the historic brick streets of Ybor City's iconic 7^th Avenue, preserving the neighborhood's unique character while improving accessibility and infrastructure for residents and visitors alike.

• Union Station Improvements (Downtown CRA)

Planning & Design Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Community - Historic Preservation Category

In conjunction with Friends of Tampa Union Station, the Downtown Tampa CRA was recognized for its contributions to the Tampa Union Station Improvements. This project included internal façade improvements to the station's main lobby area.

"The CRA's mission is to create thriving, equitable, and vibrant communities across Tampa," said CRA Director Cedric McCray. "These awards are a reflection of our continued commitment to preserving our city's history, investing in our neighborhoods, and building spaces that bring people together."

The Planning Commission's Planning & Design Awards recognize projects that serve as models for thoughtful, sustainable, and impactful development throughout Hillsborough County.