Florida Construction News staff writer
The city of Clearwater is inviting proposals from museums, planetariums, and performing arts institutions to collaborate on transforming the Clearwater Main Library into a cultural destination for residents and visitors of the Tampa Bay area. The city envisions repurposing portions, or even the majority, of the five-story library into a space for exhibitions, performances, and other cultural experiences.
Interested respondents can learn more and submit proposals at MyClearwater.com/Reimagine. The city welcomes responses from partners with experience in developing, operating, or renovating existing structures for cultural uses. Responses will be accepted from May 21 to June 20.
Located at 100 N. Osceola Ave. in downtown Clearwater, the main library spans 92,332 square feet, offering ample space for creative ventures. The building boasts stunning waterfront views to the west and is situated on the eastern edge of the newly revamped Coachman Park, an $84 million, 25-acre venue that opened in 2023. Coachman Park features a large amphitheater, lawn areas, a splash pad, and a playground, providing an excellent backdrop for cultural engagement.
The area surrounding the site is undergoing significant development, including construction of the Harborview Hotel just south of the library. The new hotel will combine retail spaces with eco-conscious designs.
The city is seeking proposals that include at least 10,000 square feet. They could encompass exhibits, performance spaces, dining options, and other amenities. While the interior space of the library is open to redesigns, the exterior structure will remain unchanged, preserving the building’s iconic design. The city plans to enter into ground leases with selected cultural organizations, allowing them to activate and transform the space into a compelling destination for arts and culture.
