TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

University Area On Rebound

ADVERTISEMENT

By JULIAN GARCIA

Published: January 4, 2008

I am writing in response to the letter entitled, "Just a Lot of Hype" (Letters, Dec. 20).

Those who are working diligently to improve the lives of residents of the University Area do not mind being compared to Old Hyde Park Village; and by no means intend to do that type of development. What we are trying to do is support the development of an infrastructure that fosters a safe and sustainable community for the area's residents.

The plan for mixed used (live and work) developments along North 22nd Street does not call for "fancy" nor "unique" little shops. Rather, yes... a Main Street USA that will bring merchants back to the community that left at the height of the area's blight - when it was Suitcase City - merchants who offer goods and services that are much needed by the residents of the community.

While some may still refer to the university area as Suitcase City, those of us who work and live in this community avoid the use of such a pejorative term, particularly given the tremendous improvements seen in recent years. The placement of 2,000 street lights, the building of a middle school, a career high school, the health and social services centers and the Junior Achievement Center, all of which are inclusive in the master plan for the redevelopment of the university area, clearly speak to the direction of the Main Street USA concept.

Change is always difficult for some and will always be met with opposition. However, in this instance, the development of Main Street USA will do much to improve the quality of life for the residents of the university area. This is a community of hardworking men and women. We believe they deserve the best for their families and that's what we're striving to offer.

And by the way ... the University Area Community Center Complex is used by thousands of people each month, all of whom will attest to its safety and its tremendous benefit to the community.

In my 30 years as a professional in community development, this is by far one of the best projects on which I have had the privilege of working. I am proud to be associated with the development of Main Street USA in the university area.

Julian Garcia is executive director of the University Area Community Development Corporation.

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT