Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency Invests $4 Million to Expand Workforce Housing in Downtown Tampa
The Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) continues its commitment to creating inclusive neighborhoods with a $4 million investment to bring affordable housing to downtown Tampa's working residents.
Through this initiative, the Downtown CRA has supported the conversion of 22 units within The Residences at 801 East Whiting, a newly constructed 104-unit apartment community, into workforce housing. These units will be available to households earning between 80% and 140% of the Area Median Income (AMI), or a single-income household making between $64,250 and $112,420. This community will help bridge a critical gap for Tampa’s workforce and middle-income residents seeking to live close to where they work.
"Every affordable unit we can secure means one more teacher, one more service worker, one more nurse, first responder, or other working class resident can live in the heart of our city where they are closer to their jobs and where their families can enjoy all the amenities downtown Tampa has to offer," said CRA Board Chairwoman Naya Young.
The project exemplifies the CRA’s broader mission to foster economic growth while ensuring that redevelopment benefits are shared among residents of varying income levels. By investing in attainable housing, the CRA is helping to support a diverse workforce, reduce commuting burdens, and enhance the overall livability of downtown Tampa.
The thoughtfully designed units feature modern, space-saving amenities, including the innovative "Ori Cloud Bed," a multifunctional system that seamlessly transforms living space by lowering a bed from the ceiling that doubles as a couch area. This technology maximizes usability and comfort, particularly in urban living environments.
"This project represents an important step in expanding access to high-quality, attainable housing in a part of Tampa that has traditionally been out of reach for many working individuals and families," said Craig Bazarsky, co-developer for BendinRoad Development. "We’re excited to be part of a solution that not only supports the city’s growth but also ensures that the people who contribute to its success can live and thrive here."
Of the 22 workforce housing units, three are traditional one-bedroom apartments that include private balconies with sweeping views of downtown Tampa, offering residents both comfort and connection to the city.
Rental rates for these income-restricted units are competitively priced, starting at $1,606/month for households at 80% AMI. In comparison, market-rate units of similar size start around $2,100/month.
The affordability period for these 22 units will remain in place for 50 years.