Monday Morning Memo

Monday, May 18, 2026

The Florida Aquarium, NOAA, and TFR to Take Center Stage at Hurricane Preparedness Debriefing

The Tampa Downtown Partnership has confirmed its featured speakers for the upcoming Hurricane Preparedness Debriefing, including experts from The Florida Aquarium, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and Tampa Fire Rescue. Together, these leaders will provide critical insight on hurricane preparedness, emergency response, and resources available to support Downtown residents and businesses ahead of the 2026 season. Emmy-winning meteorologist Greg Dee of Tampa Bay 28 will take center stage as emcee.

Join us on Wednesday, May 27, from 8am to 10am at the Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk. Attendees can expect timely updates, guidance, and opportunities to connect with key partners across the region. Breakfast and networking are included.

Register Here

Franklin Street Vision Moves Forward with RFQ

A major step toward the future of the Franklin Street Revitalization Project is underway today. The City of Tampa CRA is hosting a pre-submission conference on the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) today in City Council Chambers at Old City Hall. Interested firms have until June 4th to submit to the RFQ.

The project will focus on bringing life back to the historic corridor, creating a more walkable and vibrant experience for residents, workers, and visitors. Planned improvements include enhanced pedestrian infrastructure, landscaping, and placemaking.

Apply Here

Treasure Hunt Encourages Exploration Across Downtown

A new adventure is officially underway in Tampa’s Downtown. Launched earlier this month by The Tampa Heights Civic Association, the free, year-round pirate-themed scavenger hunt invites residents and visitors to explore Downtown while searching for José Gaspar’s hidden treasure.

Funded through a placemaking grant provided by the Tampa Downtown Partnership, the initiative features small pirate chests hidden throughout 12 participating local businesses and attractions, creating a fun and interactive way to discover the city’s unique destinations and support local establishments along the way.

Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting Downtown for the first time, the treasure hunt is a creative new way to discover Tampa year-round!

Find the Map Here

 

Century Club to Celebrate Tampa Bay's Oldest Landmarks

Some of Tampa Bay’s oldest residents are getting the birthday celebration they deserve. The inaugural Century Club Birthday Party & Awards will honor the historic homes and buildings that have stood the test of time while continuing to shape the character and identity of the community. Attendees will be able to learn more about historic structures and their lasting impact on Tampa Bay’s cultural landscape.

The event will take place tomorrow, May 19, at El Reloj, J.C. Newman Cigar Factory in Ybor City, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

Learn More

 

Now Seeking Food & Beverage Request For Proposals For Winter Village Tampa

Winter Village is returning to Tampa’s Downtown, and we’re now seeking qualified food and beverage partners through an open Request for Proposal (RFP). Each year, Winter Village transforms Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park into a beloved holiday destination featuring ice skating, local shopping, and festive experiences that draw thousands of visitors to the heart of Downtown.

We are inviting experienced and innovative food and beverage vendors to submit proposals to be part of this signature seasonal activation. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your offerings in a high-traffic, high-visibility environment and contribute to one of Tampa’s most cherished holiday traditions.

If you’re interested in being part of the 2026 Winter Village experience, we encourage you to review the RFP details and apply today.

Learn More

Help shape the future of getting around Tampa's Downtown!

Please take a few minutes to fill out our survey! This survey gives residents, workers, and visitors the opportunity to weigh in on the convenient, $2 hub-to-hub transit service that’s making it easier to explore and connect across Downtown.

 

Your input will directly inform how we continue to enhance and evolve the DASH program—ensuring it remains accessible, efficient, and responsive to the community’s needs.

 

Take The Survey Now

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AT TAMPA DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP

The Digital Marketing Coordinator supports the Tampa Downtown Partnership’s communication efforts by managing daily social media content, updating the website, and assisting with copywriting and content development. This role plays a vital part in ensuring a consistent digital presence that reflects the organization’s mission, programs, and placemaking initiatives. The ideal candidate is creative, organized, and proactive, with a passion for digital media and storytelling.

APPLY NOW

 

DASH Driver Ambassadors ensure efficient transportation of individuals between 20+ designated DASH hubs within the Special Services District (SSD) of Tampa’s Downtown while being a friendly and inviting ambassador of Downtown. Driver Ambassadors operate a company-provided four-door EV and utilize app-based software to receive and accept ride requests, navigate hub locations, and track rides.

LEARN MORE

 

Grant Applications Now Open!

Tampa’s Downtown Neighborhood Placemaking Grant is a dynamic initiative aimed at fostering vibrant and inclusive neighborhoods. The program offers annual grants up to $30,000 available to the seven neighborhoods of Tampa’s Downtown. These grants are intended to fund community-driven projects that are free and accessible to all residents, workers, and visitors in the neighborhood, driving long-term impact. Number of grants awarded will be based on submissions and those requested funds. The program’s primary objective is to enhance the quality of life for all members of the community and create a strong sense of belonging and engagement through collaborative placemaking initiatives.

 

LEARN MORE.

UPCOMING EVENTS

MAY

May 19 >> Coffee with a Champion | Embarc Collective

May 27 >> Hurricane Preparedness Debriefing | Barrymore Hotel

 

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

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Monday Memo –Monday 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.

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