Success Stories: Florida

FHWA TE Project: Tampa Bay, FL

Tampa Union Station

TE award: $1,700,000
Other funds: $943,400
Total cost: $2,600,000

In 1912, three railroad companies contributed to the building of one central rail station, Tampa's Union Station. The Italian Renaissance Revival style station was listed on the National Register in 1974. The deteriorating building closed in 1984.

In 1987, the nonprofit Tampa Union Station Preservation & Redevelopment, Inc. (TUSPR) formed in effort to save the station from demolition. With help from the City of Tampa and other preservation organizations, TUSPR bought the station from CSX Reality in 1991.

Feasibility studies determined that the station could be a success if it was developed into a multi-modal transportation center. Enhancements funds helped pay for the restoration of the building, including new plumbing, wiring, and ADA codes and requirements. The renovated station has reestablished Amtrak service--which had originally operated in the station--as well as bus, taxi, and trolley service.

The TE funded restoration of Union Station has spurred redevelopment in surrounding areas, including plans for future Enhancements projects. Proposed TE projects include the restoration of the baggage building next to the terminal, restoration of the platform canopies, and improvements to the rail yard.