Neighbors were expecting to get an update on the project’s progress but, due to a sudden illness from a development leader, that update was postponed.

TAMPA, Fla. — A major neighborhood in Tampa is set for a redevelopment worth hundreds of millions of dollars. 

Councilman Guido Maniscalco spoke of the growing need for affordable housing at the Tampa Heights Civic Association meeting Wednesday night, where residents expected to get an update on the plan to turn the Robles Park Village public housing complex into more than 1000 affordable housing units. 

“A place where everybody can be proud to live, while also addressing the affordability and availability in a centrally located part of Tampa,” Maniscalco said, describing the project. “It’s going to be beautiful once it’s done. Yes, it’s going to take time, but once it’s finished I think it’s going to be something everyone can be proud of.” 

Neighbors were expecting to get an update on the project’s progress but, due to a sudden illness from a development leader, that update was postponed. 

Owen Young, a longtime neighbor of Robles Park Village says, he’s pleased with the work he’s seen done with the property so far, and feels like the city has been good with communication.  

“The outreach department has done a pretty good job at making sure that the community has an opportunity to share their concerns, their desires, and to make sure the project aligns with what we expect from Tampa Heights,” Young said. 

Young says he hopes the city will continue to keep the redevelopment process timely and transparent, adding that he’s ready to see the families who were relocated for the project have the opportunity to come back home to a newer and nicer neighborhood. 

“It’s still important to us that the citizens who moved out, still have an opportunity to come back once the facility is finished and the community is rebuilt,” Young said. “It seems that they are being a stickler for time, and respectful of the community.” 

Leaders from the Tampa Heights Civic Association say they plan to reschedule the update for their meeting next month.Â