News & Updates
Next Steps for Clearwater’s Former
Fire Station 45
 The former Clearwater Fire Station 45 is moving closer to demolition as work on the site continues. Crews have completed asbestos abatement, an important safety measure before the structure can be taken down. Demolition is expected to begin soon, bringing the building’s long history of service as a neighborhood firehouse to a close. Once the site is cleared, a portion of it will be converted into additional parking for the Clearwater Police Department which will provide much-needed space to support police operations.
Hispanic Outreach Center Preparing to Move to New Location
 The Hispanic Outreach Center will soon be moving from its current Franklin Street location to a new site. The organization has been approved to relocate and is transitioning to its new space. The former building will also be demolished once the move out is complete.
Municipal Services Building Renovation Wraps Up, Staff Prepare to Move In
 Renovations at the Municipal Services Building, 100 S. Myrtle Ave., are on track to be completed in October 2025. The project is modernizing more than 66,000 square feet with updated lighting, HVAC, plumbing, fire safety, and communications systems, while also redesigning workspaces to better serve staff and the public.
The move-in process begins tomorrow, Sept. 26, with the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and the Economic Development & Housing Department relocating into the building. Additional city departments will follow in the coming weeks.
Once complete, the Municipal Services Building will serve as a central hub for city operations, making it easier to coordinate redevelopment efforts, support housing programs, connect with the business community, and provide efficient services to residents from a more modern and accessible workplace.
The building will re-open to the public Oct. 20.
Parking Rate Updates Take Effect Oct. 1
 Beginning Oct. 1, the city of Clearwater will implement updated parking rates to encourage turnover, improve compliance, and better support vibrant downtown and beach areas.
Key changes include:
Downtown: On-street rates rising from $0.50 to $1.00/hr; lots/garages increasing to $0.75/hr.
Beach: On-street rates increasing to $4.00/hr; lots rising to $3.50/hr.
Boat Ramps & Marina: Rates increasing from $2.00 to $2.25/hr.
Special events: New flat-rate parking of $5 downtown for large events at BayCare Sound, starting two hours before the event.
Resident discount available: Clearwater residents receive 50% off hourly parking downtown and at the beach through the Residential Parking Permit Program.
North Ward Elementary School: City Council Reviews Options
 The Clearwater City Council discussed the future of North Ward Elementary School at their Sept. 15, work session. Staff provided an update on the building’s condition and explored potential adaptive reuse options. Council members emphasized the importance of aligning any plans with community goals, financial feasibility, and the building’s historic significance.
No final decision was made, and because repurposing the entire building would require a citywide referendum, the review process will continue with additional input. This ensures that any future use reflects the needs and priorities of the Clearwater community.
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