St. Petersburg Poised to Expand Maritime and Defense Technology Hub with $30 Million Investment
St. Petersburg, Florida, is moving forward with plans to significantly expand its Maritime and Defense Technology Hub, a key component of the city’s Innovation District. A City Council committee has unanimously approved ballot language for a 25-year lease of land for “Hub 2,” a $30 million facility that will nearly double the current capacity of the Hub. The proposal will go before voters in November.
Expansion Details and Facility Features
The proposed 52,000-square-foot research and collaboration facility will be constructed on a parking lot adjacent to the existing Hub, which opened in 2022 and currently encompasses approximately 32,000 square feet. Maritime Technology Review reports that Hub 2 will include communal workspaces, a direct connection to the Port of St. Petersburg, a rooftop terrace and a unique NOAA 360 sphere – the only one of its kind in Florida.
The NOAA 360 sphere utilizes high-tech cameras to display weather patterns and facilitate educational programs. The expansion aims to foster innovation in marine science, defense technology, and related fields, attracting both established companies and startups.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Council Member Gina Driscoll, chair of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, highlighted the expansion as a “tremendous opportunity” to grow the marine science sector. My News 13 reports Driscoll stated the project is expected to create jobs, attract modern companies and research opportunities, and support the expansion of existing businesses in St. Petersburg.
The average salary for full-time employees currently working at the Hub is $91,500, reflecting the high-skilled nature of the work conducted there.
Funding and Voter Approval
The city is seeking voter approval to lease the waterfront property, a requirement for development on public land. Alison Barlow, CEO of the Innovation District, indicated that the project is expected to be funded primarily through grants and tenant investment, with the possibility of some private investment. My News 13 reports Barlow stated the Innovation District will only ask voters to approve the lease, not the funding for construction.
Current Hub Tenants and Demand for Space
The existing Maritime and Defense Technology Hub currently houses over 20 organizations, including Seven Serpents, SubUAS, and Pole Star Defense. The St. Petersburg Innovation District website details that tenants are selected based on their alignment with the city and county’s target industries, particularly marine science, defense, and technology.
Demand for space at the Hub is high, with only a 10×10 office currently available. Peyton Donald, president of Seven Serpents, a company providing training for U.S. Military special forces, emphasized the need for more individualized space and facilities in the St. Petersburg area.
Next Steps
Following the committee’s approval of the ballot language, the proposal will proceed to a public hearing and final council approval as an ordinance. If approved, the referendum will be placed on the November ballot for voter consideration.