Tampa Downtown Partnership Announces New Board Leadership for 2024-25

TAMPA, FL – The Tampa Downtown Partnership has announced its new Board leadership for the 2024-25 term, with Stephen Panzarino of AECOM stepping in as the incoming Chairman. The announcement was made Thursday, September 19, 2024, at the Partnership’s 38th Annual Meeting.

Panzarino, who brings extensive experience in architecture and urban development, succeeds Jin Liu, who served as Chairwoman for the past year and will now transition to the role of Immediate Past Chairwoman. Liu, from Carlton Fields, will continue to serve on the board.

Kenyetta Hairston-Bridges, President and CEO of the Tampa Downtown Partnership, emphasized the organization's commitment to the community. “Our focus is on making Tampa’s Downtown a place where people can thrive – whether they come here to live, work, play, or learn along the scenic Tampa Riverwalk. With our new Board leadership, we will amplify our efforts to serve as the voice for Downtown Tampa, build connections, and ensure our seven neighborhoods stay vibrant and welcoming for everyone,” she stated.

Panzarino expressed his honor in leading the Partnership during a period of significant growth for Downtown Tampa. “I am honored to lead at a time when the Partnership’s role as a convener and expert is more critical than ever. With so many innovative projects and public spaces coming online in areas like Water Street Tampa, we are committed to expanding our impact and ensuring Tampa’s Downtown remains a model for urban growth and community engagement,” Panzarino said.

The 2024-25 Board officers include:

• Chairman: Stephen Panzarino, AECOM
• Vice Chairman: Jeff Houck, 1905 Family of Restaurants
• Treasurer: Braxton Williams, PNC Bank
• Secretary: Rob Stern, Trenam Law
• Immediate Past Chairwoman: Jin Liu, Carlton Fields

The executive committee is further strengthened by the inclusion of Abbey D. Ahern of Dohring Ahern Appraisal & Brokerage, Dr. Jason Collins, Ph.D, PE, AICP of ADEAS-Q, Michael English, AICP of JT3, LLC, Tim Koletic of Fifth Third Bank, Kimberly Madison of Strategic Property Partners, and Marshall Rainey of Burr & Forman LLP.

The past year saw the Tampa Downtown Partnership make notable advancements, including the expansion of the Downtown Area Shared Hubs (DASH) micro-transit service, which provided seamless transportation for thousands within Downtown Tampa’s Special Services District, connecting hotspots like Sparkman Wharf and the Convention District. The Partnership also launched over 300 neighborhood programs, dedicating $40,000 in grant funding to support local businesses and community engagement, alongside new signage and wayfinding systems.

Downtown Tampa also experienced record-breaking attendance at annual events, drawing more than 334,000 people throughout the year to celebrations like Winter Village and River O’ Green, significantly boosting the local economy.