St Petersburg News
Historic District Expansion Approved
The St. Pete City Council unanimously approved a $150 million expansion of the P District, adding a new marine research center, extended green spaces, and an elevated sunset observation deck. Construction will begin in September 2025, with completion expected before the 2026 hurricane season. Mayor Ken Welch called it "a transformative investment in our waterfront jewel."
Business News
Tech Giant Announces Downtown Innovation Hub
San Francisco-based tech company Databricks revealed plans to establish a 500-employee regional headquarters in the new Sunshine Innovation Center downtown. The move brings an estimated $85 million investment and positions St. Pete as Florida's emerging tech corridor alongside Tampa's Water Street development.
Economic News
St. Pete Leads Florida in Small Business Growth
Recent data shows St. Petersburg small business startups increased 18% year-over-year - the highest rate in the state. The thriving arts district and low commercial rents (averaging $28/sqft) continue attracting entrepreneurs, particularly in creative industries and marine tech.
Political News
Controversial Height Limit Referendum Qualifies for Ballot
A citizen-led initiative to cap downtown building heights at 10 stories has gathered enough signatures for the November ballot. Developers warn this could stall the city's economic momentum, while proponents argue it will preserve St. Pete's character.
Election News
Early Voting Begins for Special City Council Race
Voters will decide June 25 who will fill the District 3 seat vacated by Ed Montanari's resignation. The race between environmental advocate Maria Hernandez and business leader James Wilson has become a referendum on development pace.
Employment News
Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital Hiring Spree
The renowned pediatric hospital announced 300 new healthcare positions, including specialized nurses and researchers. This expansion coincides with the opening of their new $120 million cancer treatment wing in August.
Business News
Raymond James Financial Posts Record Q2 Earnings
The St. Pete-headquartered financial services firm saw shares rise 5.2% after reporting $1.2 billion in quarterly revenue. Analysts credit their wealth management division's strong performance in Florida's booming retirement market.
7-Day Forecast Forecast (June 26-22, 2025)
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Sun, June 26: ����️ 89°F | Morning showers, afternoon sun
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Mon, June 27: ⛈️ 87°F | Scattered thunderstorms
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Tue, June 28: ����️ 90°F | Partly cloudy, humid
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Wed, June 29: ☀️ 92°F | Sunny, heat index 98°F
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Thu, June 20: ����️ 91°F | PM sea breeze showers
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Fri, June 21: ����️ 89°F | Typical June Forecast
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Sat, June 22: ⛅ 88°F | Cloudy with sun breaks
Entertainment News
Dali Museum Announces Immersive Van Gogh Experience
Following its successful "Picasso Reimagined" exhibit, the Dali will host "Van Gogh Alive" from July 15-September 30. The sensory exhibition will transform the museum's waterfront gardens into a dazzling light and sound spectacle.
Upcoming Events (June 26 – July 2025)
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town: Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Miami FC (June 28) - Al Lang Stadium
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Movies: Sunset Cinema on the Pier (June 20) - Showing "The Perfect Storm" remastered
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Theater: "A Streetcar Named Desire" (June 22-29) - American Stage
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Festivals: St. Pete Pride Weekend (June 28-30) - Grand Parade on June 29
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Concerts: St. Pete Symphony Waterfront Series (June 25) - Vinoy Park
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town: Firestone Grand Prix of St. Pete (July 5-6) - Downtown street circuit
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Movies: Shark Week Kickoff Party (July 7) - The Florida Aquarium
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Theater: "Shakespeare in the Park: Much Ado" (July 10-13) - North Straub Park
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Festivals: 4th of July Fireworks & Blues Festival (July 4) - Spa Beach Park
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Concerts: Hootie & the Blowfish (July 12) - Midtown Amphitheater
Arts Alert: The new Central Arts District Mural Walk debuts June 22, featuring 15 new large-scale murals by international street artists along Central Avenue between 16th and 31st Streets.
Stay tuned for more Sunshine City updates! ☀️���� The St. Pete Catalyst will have complete coverage of these stories and more throughout the week.
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