At The Herrell Group, we believe that St. Petersburg isn’t just a city—it’s a community that thrives on resilience, growth, and a deep love for our coastal way of life. Now, thanks to the Sunrise St. Pete initiative, our city is taking a major step forward with $159.8 million in federal funding dedicated to rebuilding, strengthening, and creating long-term opportunities for the people who call St. Pete home.

This funding—provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program)—is part of a nationwide $12 billion disaster recovery effort. But here in St. Pete, it’s more than just a grant—it’s an opportunity to invest in our future.

How Will the Funds Be Used?

St. Petersburg is the only city in Tampa Bay to receive direct funding from this program. Here’s how the larger funding distribution breaks down:

• St. Petersburg: $159.8 million
• Pinellas County: $813.78 million
• State of Florida: $925.39 million

This investment will focus on four key areas of recovery and revitalization that will help shape St. Pete for years to come.

🏡 1. Housing Repairs & Affordable Housing Development

✔ Rebuilding homes damaged by hurricanes
✔ Expanding access to safe, affordable housing
✔ Prioritizing support for low- to moderate-income households

🚧 2. Strengthening Infrastructure

✔ Improving roads, drainage systems, and public spaces
✔ Investing in storm resilience to reduce future disaster risks

💼 3. Economic Revitalization

✔ Supporting local businesses affected by past storms
✔ Creating new jobs and economic opportunities

🌎 4. Building a More Resilient St. Pete

✔ Enhancing the city’s ability to withstand future storms
✔ Investing in long-term sustainability projects

Your Voice Matters: How to Get Involved

One of the most exciting aspects of Sunrise St. Pete is that residents get a direct say in how these funds are used! The city is seeking public input to help determine priorities for the funding.

📢 City Hall On Tour – Share Your Thoughts!
📆 March 26, 2025
🕠 5:30 PM
📍 The Coliseum (535 4th Avenue North, St. Petersburg)

At this event, residents can:
✅ Learn more about the city’s recovery plans
✅ Voice their priorities for housing, infrastructure, and business support
✅ Play a role in shaping the future of St. Pete

Can’t attend? No problem! The city will accept public input online from March through May 2025, with a formal public hearing planned for May–June.

What This Means for St. Pete’s Future

This $159.8 million investment isn’t just about rebuilding—it’s about creating a stronger, more vibrant St. Petersburg for generations to come. From restoring homes to revitalizing businesses and infrastructure, the Sunrise St. Pete initiative is shaping the future of our city in ways that will directly impact property values, new developments, and economic growth.

For homeowners, future buyers, and investors, this is a pivotal moment—one that could bring exciting new opportunities in real estate, housing affordability, and community development.

As St. Pete moves forward, staying informed and engaged in the conversation will be key. Whether you’re a longtime resident or considering making this city your home, now is the time to be part of the transformation.

📢 Have thoughts on how these funds should be used? Get involved by attending City Hall On Tour on March 26 at The Coliseum or submitting your feedback online.

🏡 At The Herrell Group, we’re here to guide you through every change in the market. If you have questions about what this means for your real estate goals, let’s chat!

📞 Call/Text: 727-251-6630
📩 Email: cjohnson1030@gmail.com