The University of South Florida (USF) Board of Trustees has approved moving forward with a new mixed-use development on the site of the university’s former 138-acre golf course. The project, named the Fletcher District, will feature housing, restaurants, retail space, a hotel and conference center, an academic research facility, and recreational areas.
USF President Rhea Law said, “The Fletcher District will be transformational for the University of South Florida and will help to further elevate and drive economic development in the Tampa Bay region. We are creating a dynamic destination to live, work, learn and play that provides exciting new opportunities to bring together members of the USF and surrounding communities.”
The first phase of development covers about 27 acres north of Fletcher Avenue and east of North 46th Street. USF plans to enter into a master development agreement with ACE Fletcher, LLC. Each part of the project will be managed through separate ground subleases with private developers while USF keeps ownership of the land.
Planned features for this initial phase include approximately 700 student housing beds in 335,000 square feet; about 150 multi-family housing units in 160,000 square feet intended for graduate students, employees, lifelong learners and other community members; a hotel with around 150 guest rooms in 78,000 square feet including conference facilities; four to six restaurants and retail spaces totaling roughly 60,000 square feet; and a USF-developed academic research building expected to cover about 350,000 square feet. The exact size and scope of this research facility will depend on available funding.
The district is designed to support innovation and strengthen connections between USF and nearby neighborhoods. It is also located within walking distance from USF’s planned on-campus stadium, which is expected to create more opportunities for students, alumni, fans and visitors during major events.
According to university officials, “Supports university’s mission and strategic goals by providing needed academic and research space. Expands USF’s academic footprint north of Fletcher Avenue. Will be developed and funded by the university and USF will retain the master ground lease.”
The project still requires approval from the Florida Board of Governors. USF intends to seek this approval in November. If granted, construction on the first phase could begin in spring 2026 with an anticipated opening by fall 2028.
University representatives clarified that this project does not involve any development within the USF Forest Preserve. More information about the project can be found at https://www.usf.edu/news/2025/usf-moves-forward-with-plans-for-new-mixed-use-project.aspx.
