Hillsborough County approves naming‑rights deal for planned African American Arts and Cultural Center amid funding concerns

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners on Nov. 5 received a staff report on the proposed Tampa Bay African American Arts and Cultural Center and approved a naming‑rights agreement allowing the nonprofit Tampa Bay African American Arts and Cultural Center, Inc. to formalize donor commitments and sponsorships.

County staff said the current project estimate is about $44.5 million, including a two‑story building of roughly 50,000 square feet and exterior amenities such as an amphitheater. Public funding identified in staff materials totaled about $16.25 million (a combination of county, state and a $1 million federal grant), and the nonprofit reported $7.8 million in private pledges. The naming‑rights agreement sets a target fundraising goal of at least $16 million over a 10‑year cycle to complete construction and support ongoing capital needs.

John Mueller, director of Facilities Management and Real Estate Services, told the board that construction…