Tampa’s historic Sanchez y Haya building is receiving a substantial facelift, blending millions in redevelopment funding with community fervor. The East Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is leading the charge on this $18.5 million restoration, with the aim to rejuvenate the 115-year-old structure that has witnessed decades of decay. According to an announcement on Tampa’s official government website, the project has finally reached its final stages.
A celebratory groundbreaking ceremony was held with CRA Board Members Charlie Miranda, Guido Maniscalco, and Naya Young in attendance, alongside U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (D–Tampa) and leaders from the local community. This optimism follows the painstaking work by the Newman family, whose historic ties to Ybor City through the J.C. Newman Cigar Co., are, well-defined. “My family and I are tremendously grateful for the City of Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency for supporting our project,” Drew Newman stated. “It is a privilege for us to preserve this piece of Tampa’s history so that it can stand and serve our community for another 115 years.”