Skanska USA Building has secured a pivotal role in reshaping the skyline of St. Petersburg, Florida. The firm has been appointed as the owner’s representative for the colossal $6.5 billion redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant property, a project that promises to be a cornerstone in Tampa Bay’s history.

Central to the redevelopment is the construction of a new, state-of-the-art stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays, a project estimated to cost $1.3 billion. Skanska will also oversee this critical component, ensuring its seamless integration into the broader urban revitalization effort.

The 86-acre site, currently home to Tropicana Field, is slated to undergo a dramatic metamorphosis. Plans include the creation of 8 million square feet of mixed-use development, a vibrant tapestry of affordable housing, world-class hotels, dynamic office spaces, and thriving retail outlets. A highlight of the project is the new home for the Woodson African American Museum of Florida, a testament to the area’s rich cultural heritage.

This redevelopment is more than just bricks and mortar; it's a profound act of reconciliation. Decades ago, the community surrounding the Gas Plant was displaced to accommodate the original stadium. The promise of economic uplift failed to materialize, leaving a legacy of disappointment. Now, with a commitment of over $6 billion over the next two decades, the city aims to rectify past wrongs and create a thriving, equitable community.

Skanska's role as owner’s representative is multifaceted. The firm will provide comprehensive project management, meticulously reviewing designs, overseeing finances, and ensuring the project adheres to stringent schedules and quality standards. Their experience in the region, exemplified by projects such as the Bernie McCabe Second District Court of Appeals Courthouse and the University of South Florida Health’s Morsani College of Medicine & Heart Institute, underscores their capacity to deliver on such a monumental undertaking.