BACKGROUND
The City is seeking the establishment of a new Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) in Central Tarpon Springs! The existing Downtown CRA was established in 2001. The new Central Tarpon Springs (CTS) CRA will be adjacent to the existing CRA.
CRAs are a commonly used economic development tool used to breathe new life in established communities. By establishing a CRA, local governments receive planning and financial mechanisms to help redevelop areas where private market forces are not producing optimal results. There are currently over 220 CRAs in the State of Florida.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED!
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Online Engagement Activities
Online engagementContinue reading
BACKGROUND
The City is seeking the establishment of a new Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) in Central Tarpon Springs! The existing Downtown CRA was established in 2001. The new Central Tarpon Springs (CTS) CRA will be adjacent to the existing CRA.
CRAs are a commonly used economic development tool used to breathe new life in established communities. By establishing a CRA, local governments receive planning and financial mechanisms to help redevelop areas where private market forces are not producing optimal results. There are currently over 220 CRAs in the State of Florida.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED!
- Online Engagement Activities
Online engagement activities are available below. Tell us about what could be improved in the area, and community assets that need to be preserved or enhanced. Make sure to register on Connect Tarpon Springs to receive notices of new activities! - Workshops
Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities for involvement in the development of the Community Redevelopment Plan.
CRA PROCESS
Several steps must be accomplished before a CRA can be established, which are outlined below:
- COMPLETED! Adopt a Finding of Necessity. The Finding of Necessity identifying the conditions and establishing the boundary for the potential CRA was formally adopted on May 20, 2025 by Pinellas County Resolution 25-51.
- STARTING NOW! Develop and Adopt the Community Redevelopment Plan. The plan will address the unique needs of the CRA and include redevelopment and revitalization goals, as well as identify potential projects, incentives, and programs.
- NEXT STEP Create a Redevelopment Trust Fund. Establishment of the trust fund enables the CRA to direct tax revenues back into the CRA.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA - COMMON FAQs
How are CRAs Created?
Under Florida law (Chapter 163, Part III), local governments are able to designate areas as CRAs when certain conditions exist. Examples include: vacant property, a shortage of affordable housing, and inadequate infrastructure.
What is a Community Redevelopment Agency?
The activities and programs offered within a CRA are administered by the Community Redevelopment Agency. A five- to seven-member CRA "Board" is created by the local government, which directs the Agency. The Board can be comprised of local government officials and/or other individuals appointed by the local government.
What is a Community Redevelopment Plan?
The Community Redevelopment Agency is responsible for developing and implementing a Community Redevelopment Plan that addresses the unique needs of the CRA. The plan includes the overall goals for redevelopment in the area, as well as identifying programs and projects planned for the area. The CRA plan is developed with residents and business owners in the CRA.
What is Tax Increment Financing?
After approval of a plan, a redevelopment trust fund is established for the CRA. Revenue deposited to this fund results from the incremental growth in taxable value within the area after the CRA is established. All funds received from a tax increment financing area must be used for specific redevelopment purposes within that area defined in the CRA plan.
What is a Community Redevelopment Citizens Advisory Committee?
The purpose of a CRA Advisory Committee is to advise the Community Redevelopment Agency on the implementation of the Plan, issues, and policies within the CRA.
What are some examples of projects that tax increment financing can be used for?
Grant programs, infrastructure projects (water lines, roads, sidewalks, street lights etc.), business development programs, housing programs and much more!
Check out these links to see what other communities are doing with CRAs:
