Tallahassee Faces Uncertainty Over Railroad Square’s Future

News Summary

Tallahassee’s artistic hub, Railroad Square, is facing uncertainty following tornado damage in May 2023. The Southside Community Redevelopment Agency recently voted against an immediate purchase of the property, raising concerns among local artists and business owners about its future. With significant maintenance costs and potential interest from private developers, the community is rallying to preserve this vital space for art and commerce. Upcoming discussions are planned to ensure the voices of supporters are heard, emphasizing the importance of Railroad Square in fostering local culture.

Tallahassee Faces Uncertainty Over Railroad Square’s Future

Tallahassee, a city known for its vibrant artistic scene, is now at a crossroads concerning the beloved Railroad Square, which serves as a significant arts and commerce hub. The area has experienced a rollercoaster of events after tornado damage in May 2023, leaving many residents and local business owners worried about what lies ahead for this treasured community space.

Recently, the Southside Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) gathered to discuss the prospect of purchasing part of Railroad Square. However, after much deliberation, the CRA staff discouraged the move, raising eyebrows about how this decision will affect the future of the arts district. Ultimately, the CRA board voted 4-1 to hold off on an immediate purchase while they seek further discussions—much to the dismay of many artists and supporters of the area.

The Price of Preservation

Maintaining Railroad Square is no small feat. Recent appraisals have indicated that the financial demands for upkeep of the 6.8 acres of land would amount to a staggering $10.4 million. These figures include maintenance, insurance, and other operational costs associated with the buildings that dot the area. As such, principal concerns were raised over the feasibility of the CRA acquiring such a substantial property, especially since some buildings may require extensive renovations or even demolition.

The owners of Railroad Square, Lily and Adam Kaye, have made it clear that they are open to exploring options with private developers if the city opts out of acquiring the property. This potential pivot raises questions amongst community members: will private developers prioritize the arts and community needs over financial gain?

Community Voices Rising

Railroad Square Revitalization Cohort, including prominent local institutions such as the 621 Gallery and Mickee Faust Club. The cohort is prepared to collaborate with artists and investors in a bid to secure the land through public-private partnerships.

They propose a different vision where local artists are brought to the forefront while also engaging investors for a more sustainable future for Railroad Square. This perspective seeks to ensure that the area remains an artistic haven as well as a charming community space.

What’s Next for Railroad Square?

While the CRA’s decision has postponed immediate purchase plans, the future is far from bleak. CRA Executive Director Stephen Cox expressed hopes for public-private partnerships, seeing a silver lining in the situation. Currently, there is no pressing deadline for the Kaye family to sell to a private developer, allowing room for potential negotiations. Discussions surrounding the Railroad Square property are set to be brought before the full board of city commissioners on January 16, 2025.

Supporters are diligently working to ensure that their voices are heard. They aim to communicate the importance of Railroad Square in amplifying local art and culture, especially as the CRA also focuses on revitalizing traditionally neglected neighborhoods in the south side of Tallahassee. The fate of this artistic enclave hangs in the balance, and as the community rallies together, it’s clear that the future of Railroad Square is a cause worth fighting for.