Florida Construction News staff writer

Construction is set to wrap up June 28 on the Coachman Park Redevelopment in Clearwater.

Designed to connect the waterfront and the Downtown Clearwater community, Coachman Park’s $84-million renovations include 19 acres of park space, a gateway plaza and bluff walk that connects the park to downtown, public art spaces, a pedestrian promenade overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, a marina amenity building, a 320-foot scenic lake overlook with pavilions and a pirate-themed playground area with a splash pad.The crown jewel of the park’s redevelopment is construction of a new 9,000-capacity covered outdoor performing arts venue.The addition of this venue will allow the city to continue with its downtown redevelopment goals and establish the area as a premier location for diverse live entertainment, with a year-round performance schedule.

Last November, Clearwater voters approved a referendum to sell two bluff parcels surrounding the park to developers to build a $400-million apartment, hotel and retail project. The bluff projects, which are expected to break ground in 2024, were cast as the necessary catalyst to bring full-time residents and visitors around the revitalized Coachman Park.

The city recently hired a consultant to look into the lucrative opportunity to sell naming rights for the amphitheater. Ruth Eckerd Hall’s CEO said that would not interfere with the new name The Sound.

“Yes, the city has engaged a firm to solicit and negotiate naming rights for the venue,” Crockett said. “The name will stay with the venue and was intentionally designed to incorporate the sponsor’s name when that happens.”