St. Pete Mayor Welch delivers State of the City

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch delivered his State of the City address on Wednesday.

He took a look back at storm recovery, affordable housing challenges and the ongoing issues with trying to redevelop Tropicana Field.

Welch said the community continues to recovery from the blow of 2024’s hurricanes.

“2025 was a year of recovery,” he said. “How we recover defines who we are.”

Welch said continued investments in smart infrastructure will aid the community. He highlighted a $600-million infrastructure stormwater and coastal protection project, along with engaging with residents in flood-prone neighborhoods.

This is also an election year, and Welch has already announced he’s running for a second term.

Affordable housing also remains an issue, Welch said, adding he planned on continuing a variety of affordable housing programs.

Meanwhile, safe and healthy neighbors are key to the city, Welch said. The mayor said the city saw 10 homicides in 2025, the lowest since 1967.

Also, the mayor stressed the importance of investments in walking, biking and traffic calming projects.

In 2026, Welch said residents can look forward to more major projects including sewer upgrades, redevelopment of the Manhattan Casino and Municipal Marina. He said investments also would continue into education and investments in non-profits and youth programs. 

And yes, Welch touched on continued talks about the Historic Gas Plant District. 

“We have planned extensively,” he said about the ongoing discussions about what to do with the 86-acre Tropicana Field site. “Community conversations have focused on the Gas Plant District.

“I recognize and respect the city council’s part in this proposal. Our team is working to identify next steps.”

“In the year ahead, we will continue to do the work that matters most: Creating opportunity, protecting neighborhoods and strengthening infrastructure.”