City of Tampa releases RFQ for Tampa Union Station renovations
By Henry Queen
Tampa Bay Business Journal
Published: Jul 18, 2022

The city of Tampa has released a request for quotes to renovate portions of Tampa Union Station, jumpstarting a process that some hope will position the 100-year-old station to broaden its uses.

The renovations are estimated to cost $2 million, according to the city RFQ. The project includes replacing windows and doors, restoring the decorative plaster to its original design and updating restroom facilities.

Lakeland-based Waller Construction is currently restoring the station's baggage building. That project started in January and is almost finished, according to Friends of Union Station board member Jackson McQuigg.

Adding a coffee shop and a war memorial statue is also being considered for the station. Tampa's director of economic opportunity, Rob Rosner, will develop a separate request for proposals to find a portable food vendor, according to a city memo.

The Community Redevelopment Agency has committed to funding the pending renovations at the station. The $1.5 million appropriated at Thursday's city council meeting is subject to reimbursement should the station's leaders win any grants.

A presubmission conference date is set for July 25, according to the city's website.

Submissions are also due on July 28 for contractors interested in constructing a new multibay fleet maintenance building at the Howard F. Curren Wastewater Treatment Facility on Port Tampa Bay's property. That project is estimated to cost between $8 million and $16 million, according to the city.