Red Apple Group Reveals Preliminary Render for 400 Central Avenue

A render of Red Apple Group's 400 Central Avenue development proposal.

The "cheese grater" building at 400 Central Ave as it currently stands.

Less than a week after the 400 block of Central Avenue went under contract, a preliminary render has been released showing the location’s development potential.

Last Friday, it was revealed that Red Apple Group of New York City is planning on buying the 400 block containing the recognizable "cheesegrater" building for an undisclosed price.  Over the years, in addition to the Pheil Hotel, this prominent site in Downtown St. Pete has housed a theater, banks, offices, and parking.  Demolition of the three derelict buildings that are currently occupying the block is scheduled to begin on July 18th.  However, construction on Red Apple Group's new project may still be a few years out.

It is still unknown what will be housed in the future 400 block tower as the project is still in its early planning stages, but Red Apple’s owner, John Catsimatidis, told the Tampa Bay Times: “St. Pete needs a skyline.”  Among the ideas for the tower include a mix of residences, office space, and potentially a hotel.  Catsimatidis said they will study St. Pete’s market needs and determine what uses will work best. 

This preliminary render shows a tower set to rival ONE St. Petersburg, the 450-foot 41-story condominium tower now under construction just two blocks away.