Tampa City Council approves residential development on West Sligh Avenue

The Tampa City Council meeting held on May 8, 2025, focused on a proposed development plan for a new residential project on West Sligh Avenue. The applicant presented a site plan for a three-story building that will contain five single-family attached residential units. The building is strategically located near the eastern border of the site, designed to provide a transition from existing single-family detached homes to the commercial developments to the east.

The site plan includes one point of vehicular access on West Sligh Avenue, allowing for two-way traffic. Each unit will feature a one-car garage and an additional surface parking space. The layout ensures that the southernmost unit, Unit 1, has its front door facing West Sligh Avenue, while the internal units (Units 2 through 5) will face an internal drive aisle. Pedestrian walkways will connect the units to the sidewalk along West Sligh Avenue, enhancing accessibility.

Development coordination and compliance staff reviewed the application and deemed it consistent with the land development code. The proposal includes one waiver, which must be addressed between the first and second readings of the application.

Emily Phelan from the planning commission staff provided additional context, clarifying that the site is located within the University Planning District and the Armenia Gardens Estates neighborhood. The proposal aligns with the comprehensive plan's policies supporting infill development and aims to provide additional housing options near commercial services.

The applicant, Lisa Alonso, expressed her desire for the project to beautify the area and improve the condition of the vacant lot. The council members discussed the proposal, and after a motion by Council Member Henderson and a second by Council Member Viera, the council unanimously approved the first reading of the ordinance to rezone the property from residential office to planned development for residential single-family attached units.

The second reading and adoption of the ordinance are scheduled for June 5, 2025, at 10 AM at Old City Hall. This meeting marks a significant step in the development process, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to enhance residential opportunities in the area.