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."
The community-driven initiative involves a total of $5 million from the CRA, with additional funds composed of a $600,000 grant from Hillsborough County and $2.3 million from the National Park Service. The CRA's investment is focused on ensuring the lasting preservation and infrastructure improvements of public spaces around the building.
Before its decline, the Sanchez y Haya Building was a bustling cornerstone housing a variety of businesses ranging from a grocery store to a speakeasy during Prohibition. It most recently was known as the Chip-Inn, a dive bar until its closure and ensuing years of abandonment. Restoration efforts that started back in 2023 saw over 1,400 bags of concrete used to mend original beams and columns. Restoring the building’s original look and architectural details is now the focus, with completion expected by October 2026.
The Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency embodies the city's commitment to revitalizing its historical and cultural landmarks. Its mandate, as per Tampa's official government website, includes managing projects and funds to enhance the quality of life across several designated redevelopment areas within the city, including Ybor City where the Sanchez y Haya building stands as a testament to the city's rich past and its aspirations for a preserved yet progressive future.
