HCP Studies Downtown Tampa Resident and Worker Perceptions and Demands
Tampa, Fla. (February 4, 2013) The HCP research team recently completed a third installment of a biennial study of Downtown Tampa residents and workers. This comprehensive study measures perceptions of those frequenting Downtown Tampa, revealing what they consider to be its assets as well as its areas for desired growth and improvement.
HCP developed the initial survey in 2008. At that time, there were several completed residential towers, but the units were not yet fully occupied. This study served as the benchmark, and with each year the residential population has grown—as has the outpouring of response.
Senior Research Director Sarah Lindemuth said, “Over the past three studies respondents have indicated increasing activity within Downtown Tampa, with many of its venues and attractions enjoying marked visit increases.”
Data is segmented based upon whether the respondent is a resident or worker within the Core of Downtown Tampa, the Channel District or Harbor Island. Anyone considering one of those areas their region of residence or work qualifies to respond to the online survey.
Data from this study reveals trends, reactions to new Downtown additions, insight into what those frequenting Downtown Tampa want to see change. The data has been used by the Tampa Downtown Partnership, the City of Tampa, developers, potential residents and other groups who express interest in Downtown Tampa.
The highlights of the study were that the urban market of Downtown Tampa is maturing and is a place where workers increasingly express interest in living. Moreover, the level of demand exceeds the supply, if in fact the volume of workers expressing interest in moving Downtown Tampa make the move in the next five years. Expectations of those currently residing Downtown are overwhelmingly being exceeded or met, and the respondents (residents and workers) indicate active participation in Downtown Tampa venues and activities—many at a much higher level than prior studies.
Despite the positive indicators, there are appeals for specific additions—most commonly a grocery store. Frequent requests also include mass transit accessibility enhancements, shopping and expanded retail.
HCP Chairman Pat Hill will be presenting the results at the Tampa Downtown Partnership’s Downtown Debriefing Series: Measuring Downtown Trends, on February 20, 2013, at the Tampa Club. A report of the findings will be available on the Tampa Downtown Partnership’s website following the event:www.tampasdowntown.com.
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/story/21276396/2013/02/20/downtowns-time-has-come-buckhorn-says