Baywalk, the once prized posession of Downtown St. Pete in the early 2000's has had its fair share of dog days to say the least. This once-filled, modern retail mecca is now a shell of its former self, but could soon get a much-need face lift when St. Pete mortgage mogul and music producer, Bill Edwards will reportedly purchase the property on September 15.
In addition to slight changes in appearance - including moving the escalators and public restrooms - Edwards will also change the name of Baywalk to disassociate the complex from its former, oft-troubled life.
Edwards intends to bring in a slew of national and local-based retailers in the revitalize this ghost town of a complex. He aims to bring a scene similar to that of Westshore or International Plaza in Tampa, so St. Pete locals won't have to travel across the Bay for a solid, retail shopping experience.
For now, Baywalk houses Muvico Baywalk 20, Tokyo Sushi Cafe and a handful of retail chains including Chico's, Gamestop, and Icing by Claire's, but it's mostly barren, a symbol of a downturned economy in the area.
Edwards track record with buying and revitalizing business is pretty impressive, though. He was a million-dollar investment partner in the remodeling of Jannus Landing, now Jannus Live, a reputable, contemporary hub as for big-name concerts in St. Pete. His takeover of the once-bankrupt Treasure Island Tennis and Yacht Club yielded a new image and the incorporation of Vegas style live acts and even a few Grammy-winner appearances.
For now, we'll have to wait. It'd be great to see Baywalk turn back into the shopping, entertainment and dining hub it once was, but it'll take some work to say the least. We'll keep you posted here on 727area.com as details develop.
