The global climate is changing and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent.
Neighbors are still recovering from the ’24 storms. Gabriel will fight to bring as many dollars as
possible into District 2 to fortify critical infrastructure in order minimize service disruption
during future storms. Gabriel will work with neighborhood leaders, environmental scientists,
and public and private engineering professionals to better manage stormwater collection and
distribution so that neighborhoods are prepared for significant rain events and hurricane
season. As part of the proposed $600 million storm preparedness bond to be voted on this
November, Gabriel will advocate for a portion of those funds to be allocated to a grant program
for residential storm hardening.
Because federal and state policymakers are out of touch with the pressures facing working
people, it is up to cities and counties to respond with creative solutions to the rising costs of
daily life. Storm resiliency is inextricably intertwined with housing costs. Gabriel will advocate
for resiliency dollars to be made available through a matching grant program to assist residents
with storm hardening measures.
Gabriel will also work with city planners to identify areas in the District and across the city
where multi-use designs and strategic density increases make sense in relation to adjacent
neighborhoods and businesses. When concessions are granted, Gabriel will ensure
development partners incorporate a meaningful number of affordable units into each project.
With energy prices elevated, focusing on multi-modal transportation options is critical. Let’s
ensure sidewalks and bike paths are safe and connected and mixed-use development is favored
to encourage a live-work-play lifestyle, reducing dependence on car travel.
With the District 2 Master Plan in formation, Gabriel will be focused on enhancing public
spaces, expanding park space, and securing funds for a community center for neighborhood
meetings and special events. As residents and visitors drive over the Howard Frankland and
Gandy bridges, they should immediately feel that they are entering a special and connected
City as they are welcomed by the Gateway District.
Thousands of new residents have made St. Pete their home, and along with this influx of new
residents, the character of St. Pete—St. Pete’s artistic, bohemian vibe—is eroding. Gabriel will
keep top-of-mind St. Pete’s intangible local culture in new development planning and decision-
making.
PAID BY GABRIEL HAMENT FOR ST. PETERSBURG CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 2.
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