Channelside Retail Complex Plans Revealed; Public Forum on May 8

Channelside Bay Plaza isn't what is used to be.

Once known as a Tampa Bay hub for dining and entertainment, little growth or economic development has been sparked in the area for years.

But two real estate investors are planning to change that.

A joint venture by the operators of Liberty Channelside LLC is purchasing Channelside's lease from Irish Bank Resolution Corp., according to the Tampa Bay Times. The bid has to be approved by the board that governs the Tampa Port Authority, the Times said, which could occur as soon as the May 21 meeting.

Plans haven't been specified for the plaza, but ideas ranging from work space to bars and a hotel have been thrown around by the investors.

A public forum will be held at the aquarium at 5:30 p.m. on May 8, according to the Times.

What types of businesses do you think should be brought to Channelside Bay Plaza? Tell us in the comments.