TBRPC Partners with the University of South Florida St. Petersburg and the University of Tampa on Sustainability Project for the City of Treasure Island FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FEBRUARY 3, 2016 “This project, which would help beachfront communities analyze the economic impact of land use changes, is directly in line with the mission of the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council and we look forward to a continued partnership with these institutions.” Sean Sullivan, TBRPC Executive Director Like many established beachfront communities around the country, the City of Treasure Island is in need of revitalization. The Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council (TBRPC), the University of South Florida St. Petersburg (USFSP), the University of Tampa (UT), and the City of Treasure Island are teaming up to apply for $12,311.00 in grant funds from the Land Economics Foundation to examine current commercial and residential land use polices that hinder economic growth in older, more established beach communities. The project is entitled “Land Use Mix for Fiscal Sustainability in Beachfront Communities.” The City of Treasure Island has agreed to be a case study with the results being used to propose commercial and residential policy changes to encourage revitalization in the City and improve economic growth and development opportunities. The project will explore a change in commercial zoning, a revision of residential land use regulations, and alternative options to promote sustainable growth within the City. Treasure Island Mayor, Bob Minning, and former Chair of the TBRPC, is enthusiastic about the project saying, “The project will provide a road map on how to think through the various policy options for growing a sustainable community. The methodologies used in the project, along with the lessons learned, and the partnership model can be shared with other communities and economic development agencies facing the same types of challenges.” The project will begin in April 2016 and is expected to take six months to complete. “This project, which would help beachfront communities analyze the economic impact of land use changes, is directly in line with the mission of the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council and we look forward to a continued partnership with these great institutions,” stated Sean Sullivan, TBRPC Executive Director. About the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council…The TBRPC brings together local governments to coordinate planning for the community’s future as well as provide an opportunity for sharing solutions among our local governments in the six‐county region. Economic Analysis, transportation planning, housing and infrastructure analysis, and hurricane evacuation and recovery planning are among their many regional responsibilities. For additional information contact Wren Krahl, Director of Administration/Public Information, wren@tbrpc.org.