Potential Central Tarpon Springs Community Redevelopment Area

BACKGROUND

The City is pursuing the establishment of a new Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) in Central Tarpon Springs! Tarpon Springs currently has a CRA in Downtown, which was originally established in 2001. The potential new Central Tarpon Springs CRA will be adjacent to the existing CRA boundary.

CRAs are a commonly used economic development tool used to breathe new life in established communities and neighborhoods. By establishing a CRA, local governments receive planning and financial mechanisms to help redevelop areas where private market forces are not working. There are currently over 220 CRAs in the State of Florida.

CRA PROCESS

Several steps must be accomplished before a CRA can be established, which are outlined below:

1. 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.
2. STARTING SOON! Develop and Adopt the Community Redevelopment Plan. The plan will address the unique needs of the CRA and include overall goals for redevelopment revitalization in the area, as well as, identify potential projects, incentives, and programs.
3. NEXT STEP Create a Redevelopment Trust Fund. Establishment of the trust fund enables the CRA to direct tax revenues back into the CRA.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED!

1. Workshops
   The presentation from the December 2, 2023 open house is in the documents folder. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities for involvement in the development of the Community Redevelopment Plan.
2. Online Engagement Activities
   Online engagement activities will be available soon. Make sure to register on Connect Tarpon Springs to receive notices of new activities!

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA - COMMON FAQs

How are CRAs Created?

Under Florida law (Chapter 163, Part III), local governments are able to designate areas as Community Redevelopment Areas 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 Community Redevelopment Area 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 would be developed with residents of the CRA area.

What is Tax Increment Financing?

After approval of a community redevelopment 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 establishment of the CRA. 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 Community Redevelopment Plan, changes to 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:

• Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
• North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area
• Gainesville Community Reinvestment Area (Former Community Redevelopment Area)