News & Updates
Clearwater Explores Development Opportunities for North Ward School
 The city of Clearwater is exploring future development opportunities for the historic North Ward School, a community landmark that has served generations since opening in 1915. The goal is to preserve the site’s historic character while identifying new, community-focused uses that support neighborhood revitalization in the growing Old Bay District.
Potential concepts include adaptive reuse options such as a community wellness center, mixed-use residential and retail space, or a learning and innovation hub—each designed to honor the school’s history while creating new opportunities for engagement, programming, and green space. Through a mix of public investment and private-sector partnership, the city aims to reactivate North Ward School as a vibrant asset for years to come.
For more information, or to schedule a property tour, contact Audra Aja at (727) 444-7162 audra.aja@myclearwater.com or visit MyClearwater.com/NorthWard.
What Clearwater’s 'Urban Renaissance' Means for the Future of Downtown
 You’ve probably heard the term Urban Renaissance being used around town, and you’re probably wondering what that really means and what it looks like in effect. In downtown Clearwater, this is a time of revitalization marked by significant new development, investment, and physical transformation that city leaders say will reshape the city’s core and enhance its appeal as a place to live, work, and visit.
According to Assistant City Manager Alfred Battle, “The city of Clearwater is definitely experiencing an urban renaissance or renewal,” with major projects moving from planning into construction. This includes the upcoming 10-story Ballad Hotel with retail space and a rooftop bar overlooking Coachman Park, and a 28-story mixed-use residential tower on the former City Hall site — both currently under construction.
The renaissance isn’t just about tall buildings. Infrastructure improvements, from expanded sidewalks and underground utility upgrades along Osceola Avenue to new public parking with EV chargers, are laying the groundwork for a more vibrant and pedestrian-friendly downtown. Clearwater is transforming long-discussed ideas into visible growth that aims to attract residents, businesses, and visitors — and to redefine the downtown for years to come.
Future Retail Opportunities Emerging in Downtown Clearwater
 Downtown Clearwater is transforming, and with it comes exciting new opportunities for retail. Projects like the Osceola Parking Garage, The Ballad Hotel, and the Bluff Apartment Development will all include ground-floor retail or commercial spaces, designed to create a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly environment.
While these projects will take time to complete, they’re part of a larger effort to make downtown more connected, active, and inviting — supported by new parking, housing, hospitality, and upgraded infrastructure. When finished, these developments will provide a variety of spaces ideal for restaurants, shops, and local businesses.
For retailers and investors looking ahead, downtown Clearwater is quickly becoming an up-and-coming destination. Today’s construction is laying the groundwork for tomorrow’s thriving retail scene in a revitalized urban core.
 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. If you have a discount you would like to provide, please reach out to the CRA staff to let us know.
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.
Mama Duck Waddles Into Her Final Weekend at Coachman Park
 The final weekend of Duck Days is underway at Coachman Park, with events happening today and tomorrow before the festivities wrap up.
Friday, Jan. 23 from 5 to 8 p.m., guests are invited to Scenes on the Green for an outdoor showing of Migration (rated PG), featuring Mama Duck and her baby Timmy. The evening includes face painting, food for purchase, local vendors, and a relaxed movie-night atmosphere. Blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged.
Saturday, Jan. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Duck ’n’ Drive Jeep Invasion takes over Coachman Park with touch-a-Jeep areas, axe throwing (closed-toe shoes required), food trucks, a beer garden, vendors, and appearances by Mama Duck and Timmy. Live music by Turn It On Again (Phil Collins tribute band) runs from noon to 2 p.m.
A final Jeep photo opportunity will be available Sunday, Jan. 25, from 10 a.m. to noon before the ducks depart Clearwater.
Event details, photo time-slot registration, and the Duck Cam are available at MyClearwater.com/Duck.
Duck Days is presented by the city of Clearwater and sponsored by the Downtown Development Board and community partners. Coachman Park is located at 300 Cleveland St.
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