IKEA, the largest furniture retailer in the world, is opening a few blocks from you in mid 2009. Whether you like the sleek, modern style that IKEA offers (at affordable prices) or not, these are great news for our neighborhood. It will have a significant impact not only in the Ybor area but also in CBD and Channelside districts; bringing more than 400 jobs and the first large retail development since 1991. The popularity of the store will attract buyers from the entire Tampa Bay/West Florida Coast region. These same buyers will turn into visitors of our district and patrons of our small businesses.

Another important effect of the store is the beginning of the revitalization of the Adamo corridor, bordering the southern edge of the historic district. Currently the site is occupied by large warehouses known as Tampa International Center. Although the location lies immediately outside the historic district and is not restricted to Barrio Latino guidelines, IKEA has said they will work with the community to make the development appropriate for the area. WilsonMiller who will be working with IKEA to develop the site will meet with the Association’s board on Wednesday, April 11th for an initial informational session. We will keep you posted.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, April 3rd, 2007 at 7:45 pm and is filed under Neighborhood Improvements.