Photo Courtesy of Tampa Bay Business Journal
In its heyday, Hyde Park Village was the most chic shopping and dining destination in Tampa. Then the International Plaza came along to compete. Yet still, the Hyde Park Village aura is more unique and more authentically South Tampa. Seven blocks of retail and dining options are in the heart of one of the most desirable residential areas in all of Tampa Bay, and in many ways the soul is still alive.
Last fall when a new development firm stepped in and purchased the district, they said they weren’t going to change a thing until they did more research. The tenants were cautiously optimistic.
It is now owned by WS Development, one of the largest privately owned retail development firms in the country. They want to retain its charm, and obviously plan to breathe more life into the district. As I understand it though, they first wanted feedback from area residents and shoppers.
Since then, the management group has been very active promoting the local businesses and restaurants. As many are, I’m looking forward to seeing what they do to our South Tampa treasure. Send your thoughts to me at info@www.dikman.com.