TAMPA, Fla. — It was an exciting moment for the residents of East Tampa Friday, as the city of Tampa held a ceremonial groundbreaking event for a state-of-the-art Fair Oaks Park, which will cost $34.7 million.

Once completed, the park it will be one of the largest projects undertaken in the Parks and Recreation Department portfolio.

What You Need To Know

  • On Friday, the city of Tampa held a ceremonial groundbreaking event for a state-of-the-art Fair Oaks Park, which will cover 10 acres and cost $34.7 million

  • The East Tampa Recreation Complex will covers 10.25 acres and features an outdoor basketball court, two outdoor pickleball courts, 1.5 miles of walking trails, a multipurpose sports field, and 26 benches for visitors to rest and enjoy the surroundings

  • The building includes a 33,055-square-foot center with spaces for seniors and classrooms, and solar panels to reduce energy costs

“I’m here with my son, so having a place for him to interact with others in the community, we are very happy for this project,” said Trebora Morales

Morales, an East Tampa native, played in Fair Oaks as a child. Now her own children will be able to enjoy the new and improved version of the park.

The East Tampa Recreation Complex covers 10.25 acres and features an outdoor basketball court, two outdoor pickleball courts, 1.5 miles of walking trails, a multipurpose sports field, and 26 benches for visitors to rest and enjoy the surroundings.

A fully inclusive and fenced-in playground is set to be added soon.

According to Tampa Councilwoman Gwendolyn Henderson, the park expansion is a victory for the generations.

“The kids won't have to leave to have the activities that are going to be offered here,” she said. "The current gymnastics program is constantly filled. It’s across town now. Our girls won’t have to worry about that. If they’re interested in gymnastics, it’s right in their community, and we can build an award-winning program and create champions right here in our community."

Development company Skanska is leading the Fair Oaks Park project and aims to allocate 30% of its resources to support Black-owned and local small businesses. Stephen Bridges, of Strategist Project Support Services, sees this as a great opportunity for young entrepreneurs like himself.

“It gives people in smaller business, entrepreneurship the opportunity to make an impact on their own communities,” said Bridges.

The building includes a 33,055-square-foot centre with spaces for seniors and classrooms and solar panels to reduce energy costs.

Senior citizen Marva Gay said she was excited about having a closer venue to socialize and network.

Carrie Hurst, a member of Jazzy Seniors, said she was happy to be included in the process.

“We’ve worked and retired and now want to enjoy ourselves,” said Hurst.

The existing center on the north end of the property will remain in operation until the new building on the south end is completed in Spring 2026.