T
he Tampa Bay Rays' search for a new home has led to speculation about Ybor City as a potential location, but a developer with significant landholdings in the area says it's no longer feasible. Darryl Shaw and Kettler are transforming 50 acres into Gasworx, a massive development featuring dining, shopping, offices, and thousands of apartments. Once complete, it will include six buildings, with plans already approved.

    However, Graham Tyrrell, Kettler's managing developer for Florida, said that unless the Rays can build an extremely small stadium, a ballpark is unlikely to fit within Gasworx. "We've gone past the point where we could include a stadium," he stated. Still, Tyrrell believes building a stadium elsewhere in Ybor City would be beneficial for Tampa.

    Gasworx has already made significant progress, with 317 residential units opening last November and a seven-story mixed-use building nearing completion. Future plans include a new TECO streetcar stop, a 1-acre park, and several buildings offering apartments, retail space, and office facilities. The project aims to create a walkable community connecting downtown Tampa and Ybor City by early 2027.

    When completed, Gasworx will feature 5,000 residences, 500,000 square feet of office space, and 150,000 square feet of retail. Tyrrell envisions the area as a vibrant hub that knits together the city's urban core, making it a meaningful place for residents.