In episode 129 of the TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Michael Maurino, the Executive Director of the Westshore Alliance, to unpack the bold and ambitious future of one of Tampa’s most important and underappreciated districts. They discuss Westshore’s unique zoning advantages, the massive redevelopment potential of WestShore Plaza, and how the district could become Tampa’s most walkable, transit-friendly hub. From the River to Bay Greenway plan and the Howard Frankland Trail to complete streets, buried utilities, and murals that bring identity to neighborhoods, this conversation covers it all. Michael also dives into Tampa’s transportation challenges, regional trail connections, and what it would take for residents to thrive without owning a car. Whether you’re a policymaker, developer, or Tampa resident, this episode reveals what’s next.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:05:41 - Rejected Westshore Multifamily Project

0:14:28 - Infrastructure Issues

0:27:56 - Connecting Tampa Neighborhoods

0:41:43 - Westshore Mall Redevelopment

1:02:22 - Corporations Moving to Tampa

1:11:55 - More People Are Choosing To Walk

1:24:23 - Westshore Mall Redevelopment Continued

1:38:04 - River to Bay Greenway