Community Redevelopment Area

What is the CRA?

A Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) is designated by the city or county to encourage economic development, affordable housing, job creation, and neighborhood revitalization in those areas in which substandard buildings, inadequate affordable housing, and deteriorated infrastructure exist.

The South St. Petersburg CRA

There are hundreds of CRAs in the state of Florida including the South St. Petersburg CRA, which is approximately 7.4 square miles spanning from 30th Avenue South to 5th Avenue North.

The city of St. Petersburg has a goal for its Community Redeveloped Area (CRA): “To meet the needs of the community, while enhancing quality of life, generating economic growth, and providing new opportunities”. 

This innovative concept has failed. 

The building and stewardship of land has not been accessible for the African American residents who live south of Central Ave. There are also inadequate means of accessible fresh produce and grocery within walking distance of surrounding neighborhoods. Racial and economic inequities continue to exist. 

We must ask: Where is the money? Who are the recipients of these funds, and why?

Any plan to improve a community must be built with the community's involvement. We need greater transparency, more communication, and a larger voice in the process. To get it, we need to stay informed, pursue and make use of initiatives and programs that elevate personal and community social equity, and consistently voice our concerns through civic participation. 

Check this page frequently for updates on the South St. Petersburg CRA, including information on grants for small businesses and homeowners located within the CRA.