The ground breaking was held for the Tampa History Center and the pride of Tampa clearly showed through. With over 17 million in County funding and a contribution of a significant downtown property by the City of Tampa, the over 60,000 square foot facility has garnered additional funding and is now underway with completion planned for December 2008. The location along Tampa’s Riverwalk, immediately adjacent to Channelside and the St. Pete Times Forum, is part of the Cotanchobee Park, an initial settlement area for the City of Tampa. Over 500 attended the groundbreaking and the celebration featured music from students at the Sam Rampallo School and Plant High School. The Columbia Restaurant provided lunch for the attendees. Museum CEO CJ Roberts, Mayor Iorio, County Commissioner Sharpe, and County Manager Pat Bean spoke on the value of history and the long process involved in getting the museum to the point of the groundbreaking. City Poet Laureate James B. Tokely presented a special poem in celebration of history and the knowledge and experiences that are represented. Future plans call for hands on events that will futher enhance the historical experience of the center. Many events are being planned for the 2008 year as construction proceeds.

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