News Summary
The Rithm at Uptown redevelopment project in Temple Terrace, FL aims to transform the University Mall area into a vibrant community by 2030. With a $4 billion budget, the project focuses on enhancing student life and providing amenities such as housing, entertainment, and dining options, catering to both the University of South Florida students and local residents. Construction is set to begin in 2024, with multiple phases planned to create a bustling hub in the area.
Temple Terrace, FL – A multifaceted redevelopment project titled Rithm at Uptown is set to transform the University Mall area, aiming to create a vibrant, student-centric community by 2030. The initiative, led by RD Management, seeks to revitalize the shopping and entertainment space, which has been described as a “ghost town” due to numerous vacant stores and sparse foot traffic.
The renovation began in early 2019 and is expected to cost approximately $4 billion. With construction projected over the next decade, the project aims to enhance student life for those attending the nearby University of South Florida (USF), located less than two miles away. The development is focused on creating a more valuable and engaging atmosphere that caters to both students and residents in the Temple Terrace community.
The designs for Rithm at Uptown include a multi-level layout that incorporates walkways and pedestrian-friendly paths to promote ease of movement throughout the area. The vision extends beyond just a conventional mall; it encompasses entertainment venues, student housing, business spaces, and various accessible amenities. Students have expressed their enthusiasm for the project, noting that it offers opportunities for outdoor dining, shopping, and entertainment, which could significantly improve their social experiences.
As a response to current student frustrations regarding the lack of nearby options for shopping and leisure activities, the redevelopment is expected to reshape the area into a bustling hub. By providing accessible amenities outside of the lengthy drives to downtown Tampa or Brandon, Rithm at Uptown might also help foster a connected environment rich with networking and social opportunities.
The development is expected to enhance the “college town” feel around USF, potentially increasing competition for student admissions as the area grows more appealing. Rithm is envisioned as a welcoming space where students can gather, bond, and enjoy recreational activities without the logistical challenges often associated with traveling farther distances.
The implementation of Rithm at Uptown is planned to occur in phases. The first phase, designated as Hub II, is scheduled to include over 400 housing units and approximately 1,300 student housing beds. Construction for this phase is slated to commence in fall 2024, with additional phases (Hub III and Hub IV) expected to follow, providing even more student housing options with completion dates projected between 2027 and 2030.
The overall intent of the Rithm at Uptown project is to cater to the diverse needs and experiences of both students and local residents alike. The final vision includes integrated housing, research facilities, and dining options that focus on addressing community desires. As redevelopment progresses, Rithm is anticipated to serve as a blueprint for future developments along Fowler Avenue, marking a significant step in revitalizing the area and positioning it as a sought-after student destination in Temple Terrace.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- University of South Florida Oracle
- Wikipedia: University of South Florida
- Connect CRE
- Google Search: USF student housing
- Florida Trend
- Google Scholar: USF development
- Business Observer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban development
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
