In Hillsborough County, officials are seeking public feedback on a plan that proposes swapping out the existing Bakas Equestrian Center for a brand-new facility. This initiative intends to rejuvenate the area’s equestrian offerings by relocating to a more modern venue.

The existing Bakas Equestrian Center, a staple in the Tampa community for over two decades, occupies a modest 9.26-acre plot nestled within a residential neighborhood. This location has long faced challenges in expanding its programs and improving public access due to its limited space and constrained accessibility.

To address these limitations, the county is considering the development of a cutting-edge equestrian center at the nearby Northwest Equestrian Park, which is situated at 10711 S. Mobley Road in Odessa, just 2.3 miles from the current site. This transition is being evaluated through a request for proposals (RFP) process, allowing for the careful planning and execution of the new facility.

The proposed exchange aims to boost operational efficiency while offering a wider range of programming and better public access. Importantly, county officials assure that there will be no interruptions to the current programs at Bakas during the transition period.

The exchange of the current Bakas property for the new facility would improve operational efficiency and allow for expanded programming and enhanced public accessibility.

Additionally, during the transition, there would be no disruption to current Bakas programs.

A virtual engagement will be conducted using the Hillsborough Engagement & Education Hub to collect feedback from the public regarding plans for the park. Input on this proposal opened Thursday and will continue through Tuesday, Oct. 28.

To participate virtually, go here.

The county will also hold two community meetings to garner input. The first will take place Oct. 23 at 6 p.m. and will be held at the Maureen B. Gauzza Public Library, located at 11211 Countryway Boulevard. The second meeting will be on Oct. 28 at 6 p.m. at the same location.