St. Petersburg Council Approves Controversial Tower Increase

Downtown Skyrockets: What’s Changing

St. Petersburg City Council has approved Clearwater‑based Valor Capital’s revised plan for the Roche Bobois Residences, raising its height from 325 feet (25 stories) to 375 feet (29 stories). The project will now contain 165 luxury condominium units, up from 152, and reduce parking from 130 to 103 spaces. It’s now estimated at $70 million in value.

Controversy and Council Division

The vote passed 7–1, with Councilmember Corey Givens Jr. casting the sole dissent. He described the development as a “monstrosity,” warning that the half‑acre site can't support such density and criticizing the demolition of century‑old buildings—even if they lack historic designation—for luxury units unattainable by many locals.

Other council members, including Gina Driscoll, reversed earlier opposition following design revisions. They felt the changes aligned better with zoning and redevelopment policies.

Planning and Compliance

City planning staff confirmed the project site falls within the Intown Redevelopment Plan (IRP), which allows buildings up to 375 feet in that zone. The IRP dates back to 1981 and supports vertical growth in targeted downtown areas. Final approval now rests with the Development Review Commission, scheduled for August 7, 2025.

Amenities, Density, and Community Trade‐Offs

The updated design removes the upper-level Sky Bar and condotel model entirely. Instead, it replaces them with a fifth-floor amenity deck featuring a pool and terrace. Approximately 4,103 square feet will be dedicated to ground-level restaurant and retail space. The project also includes a public arts plaza, and Valor Capital has committed $700,000 to the city’s Workforce Housing Trust Fund.

Despite these additions, critics argue the tower serves primarily high-end buyers, not local workers, and that reduced parking and higher density will strain utilities and streetscape. Proponents say it brings economic growth and helps activate walkable urban living downtown.

Why It Matters Locally

This approval goes beyond a zoning tweak—it represents a broader turning point for downtown St. Pete. Allowing taller, denser development could set a precedent for more large towers. For residents, the stakes include affordability, historical preservation, and maintaining the neighborhood’s character. For developers, it signals a more permissive environment. For city officials, it underscores the challenge of balancing growth with community identity.

What’s Next?

Now attention shifts to the August 7 Development Review Commission meeting, which will determine the project’s final fate. Expect input from neighborhood associations, Sage Condo Board representatives, and downtown residents.