___ A movement has started in Temple Terrace. For several years the idea of initiating a revitalization project, dubbed the Downtown Redevelopment Plan, has been in the minds of many, one that would include rebuilding and developing most of the area between Busch Blvd and the river along 56th street. And now this vision is closer than ever to reaching fruition. But, as Temple Terrace Mayor Joe Affronti explained, this vision is not one that came from the city council, any committee, or mayor.

___ "It's really a citizen initiative," he said. "They're the ones that came to us and said 'we need to do something about that southeast quadrant'."

___ The $300 million project will revamp much of what is now becoming a blighted area, turning it into a vibrant commercial and residential hub. The city has enlisted Torti Gallas & Partners as community planners. Safe walkways, easy-access businesses, park areas, a golf cart-accessible condominium and more are included in the project, which Mayor Affronti believes will cause a rippling effect. He noted how well a similar project worked in St. Petersburg, where areas of concern near revitalized parts of town cleaned up and had a positive influence on the city as a whole.

___ "This kind of growth will continue for our kids and our grandkids so they can enjoy Temple Terrace the way we have. That's really our objective," said the Mayor.

___ If all goes according to plan, a developer will be selected by July and the first stages of infrastructure rebuilding will be underway mid-2006.

___ Despite the city's promotion of the revitalization project and openness for all questions or concerns, Mayor Affronti illustrated how easy it can be for people to believe rumors and speculation that greatly misrepresent how much the city will have to pay for the project. The city will only be responsible for about a fifth of the entire price tag, and to get things started, only $1 million is needed for seed money. This will fund new green-spaces, sidewalks, roads, trees and landscaping, lighting, City Buildings, water, sewer and storm water lines, and parking garages.This measure will increase property taxes by an average of $125 a year for a $150,000 home. While taxes haven't undergone many increases within the last ten years in Temple Terrace, there are those who are concerned and have plenty of questions about where their money would be going. A vote in August will determine whether to implement the increase.

___ A Referendum Committee was created to address concerns. "Our committee is set up to seriously answer any questions people may have," Mayor Affronti explained, speaking proudly of how Temple Terrace is working hand-in-hand with its citizens. And proud he should be, as the Downtown Redevelopment Plan had recently received two notable awards at the 23rd Annual Community Design Awards last month for its extensive public participation.

___ The City of Temple Terrace was initiated over 75 years ago. It is worth noting that it is not just a suburb of Tampa, but a self-governing entity with its own police force, utility providers, and city commissioners. From a golf community and a citrus grove that gave the city its name, Temple Terrace has enjoyed being a small but strong force in Hillsborough County, rich with history and located amongst some of Tampa Bay's most featured areas of interest.

___ Until about 25 years ago the southeast quadrant was a booming commercial spot. When Publix relocated many of the feeder businesses followed and took with them vital foot traffic. Since then, the area in question has become an eye-sore for many residents.

___ "That's the first impression people have of Temple Terrace when you come from 56th Street or Busch," Mayor Affronti pointed out.

___ Now the public is demanding that the city with which they have fallen in love undergo a needed makeover. Not only do they hope Temple Terrace will "look" better, but that they will finally have a safer and more accessible commercial and residential district. In short, the Downtown Redevelopment Plan seeks a new downtown identity, one that the citizens will be just as proud of as their historical identity.

___ Mayor Affronti: "This is the right vision for our city."

For more information, visit www.templeterrace.com.