Skanska, a leading construction firm, has successfully placed 270 structural frame and wall pre-cast pieces for the $34.69 million redevelopment and expansion of the East Tampa Recreational Complex at Fair Oaks Park, marking the project’s topping out. Slated for completion in Spring 2026, this reimagined 10.25-acre world-class recreation in East Tampa will feature a diverse range of indoor and outdoor community spaces and recreational activities, including a senior center, recreation center, athletic field, and exercise trail, all powered by over 500 solar panels.
The project’s design-build team is led by Skanska as the builder, alongside architecture firms Howard + Associates and Convergence Design. Skanska's scope of work includes developing an expansive 33,055-square-foot recreation center, providing a versatile space for various indoor activities and programs. The design thoughtfully integrates the existing Fair Oaks Community Center (the existing community center is demolished), Herbert D. Carrington Sr. Community Lake, and several recently acquired adjacent properties into a pedestrian-friendly campus that enhances connectivity within the community. The new Youth & Senior center will be significantly larger, expanding to five times the size of the existing community center, thereby vastly increasing its capacity to serve the local population.
“Our team takes immense pride in constructing this multi-functional recreational complex, which will serve as a new community cornerstone for Tampa Bay and its surrounding neighborhoods,” said Tracy Hunt, executive vice president and general manager for Skanska’s Florida building operations. This community-centric hub will further enhance wellness initiatives, athletic programs, and offerings for both children and seniors in East Tampa.”
Aimed to promote health, wellness and community connectivity, the East Tampa Recreation Complex will feature 1.5 miles of walking trails, a youth athletic field, two basketball courts, and two pickleball courts. The main building will consist of a music room, billiards room, art room, and three multi-purpose rooms. The complex will also house a computer lab, enabling access to technology and digital resources for all community members. The integration of dance programs and additional fitness facilities, along with a full-size gymnasium and weight room, ensures a comprehensive approach to physical wellness and recreation. The fenced-in playground will have an ADA-compliant swing and vibrant splash pad featuring 18 lighted nozzles and tree fountain, creating a safe, playful and engaging play area for children in the community to enjoy.
With a trajectory of building transformative and innovative projects across Florida, Skanska understands the importance of incorporating impactful amenities beyond what one typically expects from outdoor and indoor public spaces. Skanska’s long-standing commitment to the Tampa Bay area includes the recent renovation and expansion of the Tampa Convention Center, the construction of the award-winning Coachman Park in Downtown Clearwater, the award-winning St. Petersburg Pier, Pier Approach and Gateway, and Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park in Tampa.
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