The Kessler Group has asked for a 3 year extension on the commencement of construction for their Grand Bohemian Hotel in downtown St Petersburg Florida.
I say - Yes, by all means, extend their deadline.
The Grand Bohemian St Petersburg, which started as luxury residences atop a luxury hotel, went through a few changes that decreased the condos units and increased the hotel units until it was all hotel.
The high road is: Richard Kessler has put a lot of time, money and passion into this hotel project. Hotel financing is nearly non-existant. Why not say THANKS for your efforts, and yes, we'll extend your deadline.
The low road is: what is the alternative? No one is beating down the City's doors to build either a hotel or a new luxury condo. Is the alternative another empty lot downtown?
WHEN the Grand Bohemian is built, I think it will be a wonderful addition to downtown St. Petersburg. If the Orlando Grand Bohemian is any example, it's THE place to be after work.
So, please, St Petersburg City Council, say Yes on March 19th, to extend the deadline for The Grand Bohemian Hotel in St Petersburg Florida!
I applaud your efforts to help with this quality project. You make an excellent point
"No one is beating down the City's doors to build either a hotel or a new luxury condo. Is the alternative another empty lot downtown?"
Inaction will just exacerbate an already bad situation!
It doesn't make any sense to keep the space empty, does it? But so many cities want to "make an example" out of contractors who don't abide by their contract dates. It really would be a loss on the city if they didn't grant the extension. That building looks beautiful.
~Renae
Beautiful looking building, Sharon. What happened to make them change the plans to have condos on top?
Kathy
Russell - thanks. We need to support those people who have made investments to improve the quality of life in downtown St Petersburg Florida.
Renae - it IS a beautiful building. If the economy was thriving and a developer couldn't keep up, that would be one thing. To penalize an excellent developer because of the economy doesn't make sense.
Kathy - their timing hit when the condo market was overbuilt and not selling. So - they just didn't sell enough condos pre-construction to support them.
I just hope the city shows approves it. it would be a wonderful project to have in St. Pete
Hi Sharon, The architectural design alone should be enough to have this one built. It may very well win a design award and provide welcome kudos for everyone there. Most unusual design and I would predict that it would be a true stand out for the downtown area.
Anne - me, too. The Grand Bohemian Hotel in Orlando is always crowded with local activity at the end of the business day.
William - it is spectacular. Although not directly on the water, it will have magnificent water views.