TAMPA Port officials are “cautiously optimistic” that a Bay area developer can find enough money to finance a $239 million hotel and conference center on Channelside Drive. At its next meeting on March 20, the port s board is expected to offer Murray Klauber, the project developer, a one-year option on a six-acre tract just north of the Tampa Port Authority s headquarters.
As part of the deal, Klauber will pay $200,000 for the option, which will require him to secure financing within the year. Also, Klauber will pay an additional $50,000 up front as part of a provision requiring him to start construction on the project within the second year.
According to plans submitted by Klauber to the port, the proposed Tampa International High-Tech Conference Center will have a 450,000-square-foot convention center, a 550-room hotel, two amphitheaters, restaurants and spas. (3/1/01)
SOURCE:Tampa Tribune