Historic 7th Avenue in Ybor City is going back to its roots, returning to a brick street after more than 60 years. Work on the first two blocks of the 7th Avenue Bricking Project has wrapped up ahead of schedule, with only a minimal delay due to Tropical Storm Debby.
The bricking, funded by the Community Redevelopment Agency or CRA, was completed in phases: first between 15th and 16th streets, and then 16th and 17th streets. Despite a full road closure around the project, sidewalk access to the surrounding businesses was maintained and wayfinding signage assisted visitors.
Roughly 80,000 bricks were used for the two blocks. These historic, repurposed bricks have been collected, stored, and maintained by the City of Tampa in accordance with City Code. Due to their limited supply, they are prioritized for historically significant projects, like this one.
7th Avenue's origins date back to the turn of the 20th century, when Ybor was known as the "Cigar Capital of the World." It remained a brick street through the 1960s before the city turned to asphalt paving.
Bringing brick back not only enhances the character and feel of the National Historic Landmark District, but it also provides natural traffic calming and promotes walkability. It is also expected to benefit the local businesses in Ybor City and help stimulate economic growth. In fact, many business owners expressed support for the project, and are already requesting additional blocks be bricked.
“Ybor City is a National Historic Landmark District, so we are thrilled to be returning Seventh Avenue to brick, as it's really in keeping with its authentic character,’’ says CRA Chair Gwendolyn Henderson. "Not to mention it will also calm traffic, as it's very difficult to speed down a brick street."
Plans to brick more of 7th Avenue, potentially from Nuccio Parkway to 26th Street, which spans approximately one mile, are being evaluated.