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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 Assistant City Manager Al Battle with any questions.
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"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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News & Updates
Construction Progresses on The Ballad Hotel in Downtown Clearwater
 Progress continues on The Ballad Hotel in downtown Clearwater, with construction moving steadily forward on this major waterfront development. The project is a key part of the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance its downtown and waterfront experience.
Once complete, the 10-story, 158-room hotel will overlook Coachman Park and Clearwater Harbor and serve as the centerpiece of a 230,000-square-foot mixed-use development. Plans include ground-level restaurants and retail, a rooftop bar, event and meeting spaces, and a 169-space parking garage. The project remains on track for a mid-2027 opening.
 A number of downtown restaurants are providing exclusive deals for construction workers on active downtown projects. These offers are reserved only for workers and are meant to recognize the crews shaping the future of downtown.
See City Hall Take Shape With the Live Construction Cam
 Did you know? You can watch progress in real time on the city of Clearwater’s new City Hall! A live construction camera lets you see the building take shape as work continues. This project is on track to be completed in October 2026.
The World’s Largest Rubber Duck Is Streaming Live From Coachman Park
 Can’t make it to Coachman Park just yet? You can still catch a look at the world’s largest rubber duck with the City’s live cam. Tune in anytime to watch the iconic duck at Coachman Park and see what’s happening in the park in real time.
'Duck Days' Events
Now through Jan. 26, Coachman Park
Saturday, Jan. 17 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Join us for a free, fun-filled birthday bash featuring concerts by Mr. Brad and Jack Hartmann. There will also be the Clearwater Marine Aquarium petting zoo, bounce houses, face painting, balloon animals, children’s crafts, and family-friendly vendors.
- Mr. Brad Concert: 11 a.m. to noon
- Jack Hartmann Concert: 1 to 2 p.m.
For parking information, see parking tab below.
Scenes on the Green
Friday, Jan. 23, 5 to 8 p.m.
Watch the movie Migration on The Green at Coachman Park. This movie is rated PG.
Saturday, Jan. 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This free festival is for Jeep lovers! Enjoy live music by Turn It On Again (Phil Collins Tribute Band), axe throwing, touch-a-Jeep areas, food trucks, a beer garden and tons of great vendors. Reserve a spot in the park or along Cleveland Street to show off your Jeep during the event. For parking information, register to reserve a spot.
Bedazzled Ducks
- Tuesdays and Thursdays, noon to 2 p.m.
- Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Pop-Up Beach Library, 51 Bay Esplanade
- This month's craft at the Pop-Up Beach Library will feature Bedazzled Ducks (as supplies last)!
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Traffic Alerts
Osceola Avenue
Temporary traffic controls are in place along Osceola Avenue to support the Ballad Hotel construction activity. This construction is at the site of the former Harborview Center. One lane remains open in each direction, and a pedestrian detour will guide foot traffic safely around the work zone. Please use caution and follow posted signage.
Court Street
 Three of four westbound lanes on Court Street will close Jan. 20 for about two weeks between South Prospect and South Garden avenues for sewer repairs. Only one lane will remain open. Drivers can expect heavy congestion and are encouraged to use alternate routes, while city crews work around the clock to complete the project quickly.
Parking
Parking Closures
As part of the hotel project, six on-street parking spaces in front of the Main Library along Osceola Avenue have been temporarily closed for construction activity. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and use nearby parking options while this work is underway.
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.
Where to Park Downtown
Visiting downtown Clearwater for an event at the BayCare Sound, Coachman Park, or the Capitol Theatre but don’t know where to park? Take advantage of free parking at Station Square, Garden Avenue, and the Municipal Services parking garages on weekdays after 6 p.m. and all day on weekends. For more information and to view our interactive parking map, click the button below.
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Construction Hours and Noise Guidelines
As we begin the construction phase for multiple projects in the downtown area, we wanted to give some information as to when construction can occur. Construction in Clearwater can occur 7 days a week and any hour of the day if the noise ordinance is not violated. Construction is not limited by days of the week or hours of the day.
Construction is limited by if it violates the noise ordinance. The noise ordinance only allows “raucous noise” between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and it is not allowed any hours on Sunday. This ordinance is enforced by the Clearwater Police Department and the details of it can be read below.
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Don't Miss the 'Fresh Start Market: Latin Nights'
Jan. 16, 6 to 9 p.m., Coachman Park
 Turn up the heat at the new Friday Night Fresh Start Markets. This Friday's theme is Salsa Night with an evening of live music, dancing, local vendors, and family-friendly fun in downtown Clearwater. The market happens every week from 6 to 9 p.m. Fridays on Cleveland Street.
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Upcoming Meetings
Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) & Downtown Development Board (DDB) Meeting
Jan. 12, 1 p.m., Main Library Council Chambers
City Council Work Session
Jan. 12, 1:30 p.m., Main Library Council Chambers
City Council Meeting
Jan. 15, 6 p.m., Main Library Council Chambers
Save the Date
CRA Community Outreach Meeting
Jan. 27, 3 p.m., Main Library Council Chambers
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Interactive Construction Map
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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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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