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Building Clearwater’s Future
Welcome to the city of Clearwater's newsletter on downtown construction. This newsletter is designed to introduce you to current downtown projects and keep you updated on timelines, road closures, and impacts to public parking. Please read on, click the links for more information, and reach out to Al with any questions.
"DeTour de Clearwater"
You may notice a new theme popping up around downtown: DeTour de Clearwater. Inspired by both detours and the famous Tour de France, this campaign was created to bring some fun and creativity to the construction experience. Just like a bike race, there may be twists, turns, and new routes to take — but the journey still leads to a vibrant downtown worth exploring.
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Project Highlight
 The DeNunzio Group will break ground on The Ballad Hotel — a new Hilton Tapestry Collection property — on Thursday, Dec. 11, at 4 p.m. The 10-story, 230,000-square-foot hotel is poised to bring a fresh wave of activity and energy to downtown Clearwater.
The project includes 158 guest rooms designed to blend comfort and contemporary style. The ground floor will feature retail spaces for restaurants and shops, while the top floor will offer a rooftop bar, dining areas, and meeting rooms with sweeping views of Clearwater Bay.
An integrated parking garage will add convenience for guests and downtown visitors, supporting the city’s broader goal of creating a more vibrant, walkable district for residents, businesses, and tourists.
Envisioned as more than a place to stay, The Ballad Hotel aims to become a dynamic hub for dining, entertainment, and community life in the heart of Clearwater.
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News & Updates
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Set for Clearwater Gardens Apartments on Dec. 18
 A ribbon-cutting ceremony for Clearwater Gardens Apartments, located at 1260 Cleveland St., will take place Thursday, Dec. 18 at 10:30 a.m. The event is open to the public.
This new, four-story development has 81 one- and two-bedroom apartments and they are currently leasing units as part of the city’s efforts to expand affordable housing options for households earning 30–80% of the area median income. Amenities include a community garden, multi-purpose community room, on-site library, coworking space, and tech lab.
Clearwater Gardens Apartments represents an important step in revitalizing the area and increasing access to affordable housing downtown.
Demolition in Final Stages at Former Fire Station 45 Site
 Demolition at the former Clearwater Fire Station 45 site is nearly complete, as crews are finishing clearing out debris. This marks the final step in preparing the property for future redevelopment. Once the site is cleared, it will open the door for new opportunities to enhance the neighborhood and bring new life to the area.
Laying the Foundation for Downtown’s New Parking Garage
Preparations are underway on the Osceola Avenue Parking Garage, led by Creative Contractors, Inc. The new structure will be built using precast concrete, offering enhanced durability and a more efficient construction process.
Crews have completed site surveying, installed fencing and tree protection, and set up the construction laydown area. Upcoming work includes connecting temporary utilities and beginning demolition activities to prepare the site for foundation work.
The project is expected to be completed by December 2026.
SPC Graduation Set for Dec. 15 at Coachman Park
On Monday, Dec. 15, St. Petersburg College will hold its graduation ceremony at Coachman Park at 6:30 p.m. (doors open at 5 p.m.) Evening parking at the Garden Avenue, Municipal Services Building, and Station Square garages will be reserved for graduation attendees.
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Upcoming Meeting
CRA Community Outreach Meeting
(Virtual) Nov. 25, 3 to 4 p.m., Clearwater Main Library
 The city’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) will host its monthly Community Outreach Meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 25, from 3–4 p.m., virtually via Zoom. (Zoom link provided upon RSVP)
The meeting will cover project timelines, local events, available resources, and ongoing revitalization efforts impacting Downtown Clearwater.
Open to residents, businesses, and community partners, this is a great opportunity to stay informed about city initiatives and stay connected with your community.
Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Trustees Meeting
Monday, Dec. 1, 1 to 2 p.m., Clearwater Main Library
Key Agenda Item: Reimagine Clearwater Main Library
Staff will present an item on the Reimagine Clearwater Main Library project at the Dec. 1 CRA Trustees Meeting.
The discussion will include the Reimagine Clearwater Main Library Call for Development Concepts process and the marketing and outreach strategy to support the Call for Development Concepts.
City Council Work Session
Monday, Dec. 1, 1:30 to 4 p.m., Clearwater Main Library
The Clearwater City Council will hold its Dec. 1 work session from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Work sessions are open to the public and take place in Council Chambers on the first floor of the Main Library at 100 N. Osceola Ave.
Key Agenda Item: North Ward School
Staff will present an item on the North Ward School property at the Dec. 1 City Council work session.
The discussion will include:
- Repair estimates for roof patching and tarping
- The results of independent property appraisals
- A proposed approach for marketing and disposing of the property.
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Don’t Miss These Downtown Events!
1st Friday Lunchtime Market
Dec. 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Cleveland Street in Downtown Clearwater
 The 1st Friday Lunchtime Market returns on Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. along the 400–500 blocks of Cleveland Street.
Kick off the holiday season with local vendors, lunch specials, raffles, and plenty of opportunities to find the perfect gift.
This month’s market adds extra festive fun with a visit from Santa, live music, and adorable puppies for adoption. It’s the perfect way to enjoy your lunch break while supporting downtown Clearwater!
Market Marie
Saturday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m., Coachman Park
 Shop local at The Market Marie with over 85 small business owners every second Saturday in Coachman Park. Enjoy live music, delicious food, art, clothing, jewelry, henna, handmade candles, soap, pet treats, home goods and more.
Clearwater Yacht Club's 51st Annual Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
Saturday, Dec. 13, 6 to 9 p.m., Clearwater Harbor Marina
 A dazzling holiday‑tradition returns on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 6-9 p.m. The parade floats down the Mandalay Channel Bridge through Island Estates, past Coachman Park, and along the Memorial Causeway before ending at the Clearwater Yacht Club for judging.
The public is invited to view the procession as brightly‑lit boats cruise the waterfront in festive celebration.
Jingle Bell Family Fun Fest
Saturday, Dec. 20 at 10 a.m., Coachman Park
 Celebrate the holiday season at the Jingle Bell Family Fun Fest on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Coachman Park! Enjoy local vendors, food trucks, holiday characters, contests, and more for a day of family-friendly fun.
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 Curious about what’s happening downtown? Our interactive construction map makes it easy to stay informed on all ongoing and upcoming infrastructure and development projects in the heart of Clearwater.
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 As part of Clearwater’s downtown improvement projects, some roads and intersections will be temporarily closed or detoured. We’re working hard to minimize disruption, and to keep you informed every step of the way. There are currently no downtown road closures due to these construction projects.
Parking Lot Closures for Construction Staging
The former City Hall parking lot (112 S. Osceola Ave.) and the lot at 301 Pierce St are closed for construction staging for downtown projects. Citizens and visitors should use alternative parking at other downtown lots in the surrounding area. For information on available parking, visit our interactive downtown parking map below.
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Assistant City Manager Alfred G. Battle Jr. brings nearly 30 years of local government experience, including leadership roles in Jacksonville and Fort Lauderdale — and now, in Clearwater.
Al is eager to get to know Clearwater residents and businesses personally, ensuring your questions and concerns are heard and addressed throughout the downtown transformation.
“Ask Al” is your direct connection to the leadership behind these exciting projects. Whether you’re curious about timelines, traffic impacts, or design changes, Al is here to listen and keep you informed every step of the way.
Have a question? Submit it to askal@myclearwater.com.
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Stay Informed
Stay connected with the latest news and developments across Clearwater. Click here to subscribe to city updates and never miss an important announcement.
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