Centro Ybor has been one of those albatrosses around the city's neck for awhile, but the signing of Tampa Digital Studios to a long term lease is a significant start to changing things. Tampa Digital Studios is the largest studio in the Tampa Bay area, producing commercials, live broadcast shows, infomercials, and lots more audio/video production. Almost a year ago, Centro Ybor was sold to M&J Wilkow with the hope of tenant upgrades and lease improvements. Managing Partner David Harvey called Tampa Digital "the first significant lease achievement." He acknowledged his commitment to the City and to Ybor and had "relentlessly pursued" the Tampa Digital lease. Mayor Iorio was on hand at the official announcement and emphasized that "Ybor can be the creative center for all of Tampa." She called Ybor a special place to recognize our history, culture, diversity, and creativity. She described Centro Ybor as a "catalyst for growth and new development." Tampa Digital President George Cornelius called for every one to work together in Ybor "We want to make it better." He called the Ybor the move the best decision he has made. Ybor Chamber President Tom Keating called it a "successful transaction for Mayor Iorio." With the City guaranteeing significant parts of the funding determined partially by cash flow, Mayor Iorio beamed at the idea of a business tenant occupying 10,000 sq. ft of space. The move should be completed in the Fall of 2007, the location is on the ground floor, opposite the New World Brewing Company.
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