Monday Morning Memo

Monday, January 12, 2026

Tampa Theatre seeks Applications for President and Chief Executive Officer position

Tampa Theatre invites applications for the position of

President and Chief Executive Officer following the upcoming retirement of John Bell, who has led the theatre for more than 40 years.

The President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for providing overall leadership and guidance for Tampa Theatre’s continuing development as a landmark destination film and cultural center. Tampa Theatre is an important atmospheric movie palace built in 1926 by renowned architect John Eberson and is generally regarded as the best—and most intact—example of Eberson’s atmospheric style remaining in the world today.

Application Deadline: January 23, 2026

LEARN MORE

Plans Filed for 23-Story Tower on N. Jefferson St.

Plans for “The Gaspar”, a 23-story mixed-use building, have been submitted to the City of Tampa for administrative review.

Designed by MGBA Architecture, The Gaspar would sit on a 0.33-acre parcel along N. Jefferson Street and would include 188 residential units, commercial and office space, and an automated mechanical parking system.

LEARN MORE

Join us for a FREE Downtown Mural Tour!

Come aboard the STAR Trolley to explore the newest neighborhood murals throughout Tampa’s Downtown. This guided experience highlights public art that reflects the unique stories, culture, and identity of each Downtown neighborhood.

Participants will ride the STAR Trolley along a curated route and hear directly from the mural artists, who will share the inspiration behind their work and how each piece translates the narrative of its surrounding community.

Seating is limited and available on a first come, first served basis for registered guests.

REGISTER FOR FREE

New Downtown Apartment Units Utilize Technology to Make Small Units Feel Bigger

The Residences at 801 East Whiting Street are creating small spaces with big impact within their new Downtown units. Utilizing retractable beds, spaces can offer additional living space during the day.

The Residences at 801 East Whiting Street is offering an open house on January 22 at 4:30pm.

LEARN MORE

Join the Walk to End Hunger

Join Where Love Grows with a Walk to End Hunger as they kick off the New Year with their Annual Arbor Day Tour. They are excited to enjoy another memorable tour led by Joe Gross, Hillsborough County Arborist, and Clint Shockley, Environmental Scientist & Forester for Hillsborough County.

WHEN: January 16 from 12-1pm

WHERE: Poe Plaza

REGISTER HERE

Deadline for Amex Shop Small Grants Program is January 16

The Amex Shop Small Grants Program is funding five hundred $20,000 grants for small businesses. Selected grant recipients will also receive networking opportunities, e-learning courses, and more. The deadline for small businesses to apply is Friday, January 16, 2026.

LEARN MORE

Become a Jury Member for Urban Excellence Awards!

Our 19th Annual Urban Excellence Awards (UEA), celebrating the people, places, and projects that have impacted our Downtown in 2025, is slated for May 6th! Interested in joining as a jury member for this event? Click HERE!

The Jury Member Interest Form is open until Friday, January 16, 2026.

Sponsorship Opportunities Now Open for Tampa's Downtown River O’ Green, presented by Grow Financial

Sponsorship opportunities are officially open for Tampa’s Downtown River O’ Green, presented by Grow Financial, returning on Saturday, March 14, 2026! This signature, family-friendly celebration transforms the Hillsborough River into a vibrant green spectacle while activating Tampa’s riverfront with live entertainment, interactive experiences, and community fun.

Tampa’s Downtown River O’ Green, presented by Grow Financial attracts thousands of attendees and offers sponsors a unique opportunity to connect with residents and visitors in a high-visibility, festive setting. From brand exposure along the Riverwalk to on-site activations and community engagement opportunities, sponsorship packages are designed to create meaningful connections and memorable moments.

Join us in celebrating one of Downtown Tampa’s most iconic traditions and be part of the magic that kicks off St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

Interested in sponsoring? Take a look at the Sponsorship Packet or email Ivy Lupco, Manager of Public Space Placemaking & Programming, at ilupco@tampasdowntown.com.

You're Invited! Join us Wednesday at our Downtown Debriefing

Our Downtown Debriefing breakfast series will highlight the Tampa Downtown Partnership programs and initiatives. Join us as our staff shares the various services, projects, achievements, and vision for the organization and Tampa’s Downtown. A breakfast buffet will be provided.

This event is FREE for members of the

Tampa Downtown Partnership and $15 for Potential Members. Registration CLOSES at 2pm TODAY!

  • Date: Wednesday, January 14
  • Time: 8-10am
  • Location: The Portico – 1001 N. Florida Ave.

REGISTER TODAY!

HIRING: DASH Driver Ambassadors

Tampa Downtown Partnership is hiring full-time DASH Driver Ambassadors!

As a Driver Ambassador, you will play a crucial role in supporting our organization’s mission to enhance and promote a vibrant Downtown. Your primary responsibility will be to ensure efficient transportation of individuals between designated hubs in a four door EV within the Downtown region while being a friendly and inviting ambassador of Downtown.

LEARN MORE & APPLY

UPCOMING EVENTS

JANUARY

January 14 at 8am >> Downtown Debriefing Breakfast Series | The Portico
January 16 at 12pm >> Walk to End Hunger Arbor Day Tour | Poe Plaza
January 16 at 6pm >> Rhythm & Hues: An Alleyway Art Show | Rialto Theater Alleyway
January 18 at 10am >> Downtown Mural Tour | Tampa Heights — 7th Ave & Franklin St
January 22 at 5pm >> Member Mixer & Tour | The Residences at 801 East Whiting Street

FEBRUARY

February 1 at 8am >> Gasparilla Riverwalk Clean Up [Volunteer] | USF Park
February 3 at 11am >> Mayor’s Food Truck Fiesta | Lykes Gaslight Square Park
February 5 at 6:30pm >> Rock the Park (Emo Night) | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
February 7 at 10am >> Bark in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
February 9 at 4:30pm >> Blind Date with a Book | Snow Park
February 11 at 7pm >> Channel District Date Night | Washington Street Park
February 12 at 12pm >> Downtown’s Backyard Market | Poe Plaza
February 12 at 5pm >> Member Mixer | Florida School of Woodwork
February 13 at 5:30pm >> Keys in the Park: A Melodic Duel | Lykes Gaslight Park
February 26 >> Point-In-Time (PIT) Count [Volunteer]

WEEKLY EVENTS

Sundays at 6pm >> Yoga in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Mondays at 6pm >> HIIT in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Tuesdays at 6pm >> Zumba in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Thursdays at 4-8pm >> Art on the House | Tampa Museum of Art

Connect With Us!

Connect with us on social media to get the latest on downtown events!

Monday Morning Memo –Monday Morning Memo is a weekly update of “insider Downtown information” regarding developments, transportation, special opportunities and other useful information to help you make the most of Downtown. Subscribe to receive this weekly newsletter.

Sign Up Now