Historic East 7th Avenue, named one of America's 10 Great Streets, is the main commercial thoroughfare of Ybor City. The Ybor City CRA hired an outside contractor to brick East 7th Avenue, between North 15th and 17th Streets, beginning Monday, July 29, 2024. The overall project goal is to brick all fourteen blocks of 7th Avenue, from Nick Nuccio Parkway to 26th Street.
Why This Project Matters:
Bricking 7th Avenue will slow traffic, promote alternative modes of transportation, boost local businesses, and contribute to the economic growth of Ybor City, creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs and job seekers. Using authentic historic bricks, this project will bring Historic 7th Avenue back to its roots, returning to a brick street after more than 60 years, and allowing residents and visitors to better connect to the city's past.
How is it Funded?
The project is funded by the Community Redevelopment Agency, or CRA. The first phase, bricking between North 15th and North 17th Streets, costs $434,640.
How Many Bricks Will it Take?
It is estimated each block will take 35,000-40,000 bricks.
Where do the Bricks Come From?
The city has a stockpile of bricks that are stored at the Port.
How Will Bricking Affect Traffic During the Project?
The sidewalks on both the north and south sides of the street will remain open during construction; however, street parking in this portion of 7th Avenue will be closed. Business signage will be posted at each corner to help patrons find businesses during this time.
We also encourage people to use the TECO Line Streetcar to get to and from Ybor as a car-free alternative to enjoy the district during construction. Parking in the Centro Ybor Garage (1500 E. 5th Ave.) is the nearest parking facility to this area.
