TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa’s new city center opens to the public on Wednesday.

The new facility, located at 255 East Hanna Ave. in East Tampa has been in the works for a few years.

What You Need To Know

  • Tampa’s new city center opens to the public on Wednesday

  • The 161,000-square foot building on Hanna Avenue will serve as a centralized location for multiple city departments

  • MORE INFORMATION: The City Center at Hanna Avenue

The 161,000-square foot building will serve as a centralized location for multiple city departments, a community gathering spot and a workforce development center.

Mayor Jane Castor will host a ceremony to officially open the facility Wednesday morning.

City officials said the project's ultimate goal is to increase efficiencies across city operations, bringing government closer to its residents, while also spurring economic development and uplifting the surrounding communities.

The new facility will house the city’s construction services and neighborhood enhancement offices, as well as business tax, code enforcement, housing and community development and human rights department.

By December, the center will fully house six departments totaling 500 employees.