Masonry project aims to revive Ybor history and calm traffic

TAMPA, Fla. — A masonry project is underway in Ybor City to ease traffic on a road that normally sees a lot of pedestrians.

On Monday, bricks began being laid block by block along historic 7th Avenue, starting at 15th Street.

“Ybor City is a National Historic Landmark and this really fits its historic character,” said Brenda Thrower, CRA Development Manager for Ybor City.

A total of fourteen blocks will be laid. It is estimated that 35,000 to 40,000 authentic bricks will be used per block. During construction, cars will be diverted, but the sidewalks will be open.

“We just don’t want it to get in the way of our business, it’s obviously a lot more difficult,” said Alicia Duffy, general manager of New York, New York Pizza.

Duffy is pleased so far with the progress she has made outside the family business where she has worked for 15 years.

“It seems like they’re moving a lot faster than I thought,” said Duffy, who says she’s looking forward to bringing the neighborhood’s history back to life.

Thrower says the end result will bring more than just charm back to the historic neighborhood.

“It will also provide a natural traffic calming effect and promote walkability in the neighborhood,” Thrower said.

Phase one includes 7th Avenue and 15th through 17th Streets and is expected to take approximately three weeks to complete.

The entire project spans fourteen blocks from Nick Nuncio Parkway to 26th Street.

Signs on every corner of the construction site redirect traffic and direct visitors to businesses.

The City of Tampa also encourages residents to use the TECO Line Streetcar to get around.

Thrower also says the project will promote alternative forms of transportation and connectivity and boost local businesses.

“Ybor City will look and feel different, so we hope that will be positive for the district,” she said.