ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — The future of the Science Center in St. Petersburg might become a major topic of discussion next week. Originally, there was an agreement for the site’s sale, but the city reportedly cancelled this transaction due to potential future needs for stormwater tanks in the area.
The Science Center sits behind gates on 22nd Avenue North, waiting to learn its fate.
“The Science Center is critical to shaping good and great individuals in the City of St. Pete,” stated John Hoke, President of the Jungle Terrace Civic Association.
Hoke said there is a lot of potential for the site. St. Pete for STEAM has fought for several years to get it reopened.
Joe Hamilton, the center’s director, mentioned that they had finalized an agreement with the city two years ago to purchase the land for $1.6 million. However, the city retracted the agreement, citing potential future requirements for water tanks on the property.
“You don’t kill the $20 million project that is a gift to the city because you don’t want to move a brush site,” Hamilton said.
Hamilton provided 8 On Your Side with a feasibility report that the city had requested. This report indicated the aim of bolstering the resilience of the Northwest Water Reclamation Facility by enhancing water storage to aid post-storm recovery efforts.
Among the nine locations assessed, the Science Center was determined to be the second most favorable. Yet, the report concluded that the center is a top choice due to its direct connection opportunities and potential for future expansion.
Hamilton argues they can use the brush site directly behind the center, which was also listed in the report.
“The question is which is more important: relocating a pile of palm fronds to accommodate the tanks while preserving the Science Center, or leaving the palm fronds untouched and demolishing the Science Center to make room for the tanks?” Hamilton asked.
Hoke said he and his neighbors are asking the same questions of the city.
He’s been encouraging neighbors to write letters and send emails to city leaders.
“It’s been a blight on my neighborhood. You know, driving by it, it’s almost depressing driving by and seeing nothing and what could be potentially in the future,” Hoke said.
In 2020, 8 On Your Side reported how the city then was going to need a portion of the site to accommodate wastewater needs. And that the city bought the property in 2019 with the intent of water treatment and affordable housing.
The council is slated to discuss the Science Center during a meeting Thursday.
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