On Tuesday, April 13, 2021, Downtown Tampa witnessed the unveiling of The Square, a newly enhanced public space designed to invigorate the community. This event marked a pivotal moment for the Tampa Downtown Partnership, emphasizing its commitment to creating equitable and accessible spaces for all. The ceremony celebrated both the physical improvements to the park and the mission to foster a vibrant and inclusive Downtown environment.
For years, Lykes Gaslight Square Park had been underutilized, a green space that many passersby walked around rather than through. Recognizing the potential of this space, the Tampa Downtown Partnership aimed to transform it into a hub of activity and relaxation, where people could gather, unwind, and enjoy the city.
The Partnership identified the need for enhanced park amenities to revitalize the space and The Square was imagined. By creating an inviting and functional space, the team sought to encourage more foot traffic and community engagement, turning The Square into a welcoming haven in the heart of Downtown.
The ribbon-cutting event was an attended by city officials, community leaders, and residents. Attendees gathered to witness the unveiling of the transformed space and to celebrate the collective efforts that made the project possible.
Mayor Castor delivered a heartfelt speech emphasizing the importance of public spaces in Tampa’s Downtown and how they foster community and belonging. Her presence underscored the city’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the quality of life for its residents.
The enhancements to The Square were thoughtfully designed to cater to the community’s needs and create the highest and best use for the space. The northern quadrant of the park underwent a complete makeover, transforming it from a neglected area into a vibrant and inviting space.
Key improvements included:
Ground Improvements: Replacing grass and mulch with crushed granite for better aesthetics and durability.
Movable Site Furnishings: Adding tables and chairs that can be rearranged for various activities and gatherings.
Planters: Strategically placing planters throughout the park to add bursts of color and greenery.
Lighting and Sound: Installing new lighting for safety and ambiance, and a sound system for ambient music and announcements.
Food Vending Kiosk: Featuring prepacked food items from Inside the Box, the catering company of Metropolitan Ministries, offering convenient dining options and supporting a local business.
The enhancements were guided by the Tampa Downtown Partnership’s mission to create equitable and accessible spaces for all. By enhancing The Square, they aimed to create a space welcoming to everyone, regardless of background.
The project received strong support from the City of Tampa. City officials collaborated closely with the Partnership to ensure the enhancements met community needs and aligned with broader urban development goals. This collaboration highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in driving positive change and improving residents’ quality of life.
The transformation of The Square has had an immediate and positive impact on the community. The once underutilized space is now a vibrant hub of activity, attracting visitors from all walks of life. The park is now a place where people can relax, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors, contributing to the overall vitality of Downtown Tampa.
The Tampa Downtown Partnership is proud to have created a welcoming and inclusive space. The success of this project serves as a model for future public space enhancements in Tampa’s Downtown.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a celebration of community, collaboration, and the shared vision of a more vibrant and inclusive Downtown. The Square stands as a testament to what can be achieved when people come together with a common goal. It serves as an inspiration for future efforts to enhance public spaces and improve the quality of life for all residents.
