More than 200 business and community leaders joined the Tampa Bay Chamber for a conversation on economic development, transportation, workforce growth, resiliency, and the future of Tampa.
On May 29, more than 200 members of the Tampa Bay business community gathered at the Hilton Tampa Downtown for the Tampa Bay Chamber's annual Face the Chamber event featuring Mayor Jane Castor.
Moderated by seven-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and WTSP/10 Tampa Bay anchor Jamison Uhler, the program provided Chamber members with the opportunity to hear directly from Mayor Castor on the issues shaping Tampa's future — from economic development and transportation to workforce growth, hurricane preparedness, healthcare access, and community investment.
The Chamber extends its sincere appreciation to Mayor Castor for joining us, to Jamison Uhler for leading the conversation, and to our sponsors whose support made the event possible.
Presenting Sponsor: TECO
Gold Sponsors: Spectrum and Verizon
Special Thanks: Delta Air Lines
Tampa's Momentum Continues
Tampa's continued growth and national visibility were strong themes throughout the conversation.
Mayor Castor highlighted strong hotel occupancy rates, record-setting convention activity, major development projects, and continued interest from businesses considering relocation to the Tampa Bay region.
"The sky is the limit," Castor said when discussing Tampa's future economic potential.
While acknowledging broader economic uncertainty, she expressed confidence in Tampa's long-term outlook. Mayor Castor emphasized the city's ability to attract both established companies and entrepreneurs.
She also reinforced the importance of supporting small businesses, describing them as "the backbone of our economy."
Why Arts and Culture Matter
Much of the morning’s discussion focused on economic development, growth, and the future of professional sports in Tampa. Mayor Castor emphasized that arts and culture are essential to the city’s identity, underscoring the importance of both preserving and investing in them.
She noted that culture and the arts have long reflected the identity of a community, adding, “We can never underestimate the importance of the arts,” Castor said.
She pointed to investments in organizations such as the Florida Orchestra, museums, public art projects, and community-based creative initiatives that help shape Tampa's identity while creating opportunities for future generations.
Building a More Connected and Resilient City
Transportation, infrastructure, and hurricane preparedness generated significant audience interest.
Mayor Castor discussed ongoing regional transportation partnerships involving Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties, including future expansion of the Tampa Streetcar and broader regional connectivity efforts.
She also stressed the importance of preparing for hurricane season and continuing investments in resiliency projects.
"Please be prepared," she urged, encouraging residents and businesses to review emergency plans, understand updated flood zone information, and remain informed throughout storm season.
In that spirit, the Tampa Bay Chamber encourages members to utilize its , which includes planning tools, business continuity resources, recovery information, and ways to stay informed throughout hurricane season.
The discussion also touched on underground utility infrastructure, flood mitigation efforts, and the importance of long-term planning as Tampa continues to grow.
Preparing the Next Generation
Workforce development emerged as another key topic during the discussion.
Mayor Castor highlighted the importance of helping new residents, students, and emerging professionals feel connected to Tampa's business community.
"You have to make them feel a part of the community as soon as they get here," she said.
The conversation included the role of higher education institutions, internships, mentorship opportunities, support for women-owned businesses, and partnerships between employers, community organizations, and local government.
Mayor Castor specifically recognized the value of organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber in helping cultivate future leaders and create pathways for professional growth.
Looking Toward the Future
As the discussion shifted toward legacy and Tampa's future, Mayor Castor reflected on transformational projects she hopes will continue shaping the city over the next decade.
Among the transformational projects she highlighted were the continued expansion of the Riverwalk, the Rome Yard redevelopment, the Airside D expansion at Tampa International Airport, and ongoing waterfront development throughout the city.
She also spoke about creating systems and processes within city government that will continue benefiting residents long after her administration concludes.
Throughout the conversation, Mayor Castor repeatedly emphasized the importance of community collaboration.
"The power of the people in the community," she said, is what allows Tampa to continue growing successfully.
A Final Reflection
As the program concluded, Mayor Castor was asked what she hopes her legacy will be.
Her answer was simple:
"I love this city."
That sentiment served as a fitting close to a conversation focused not only on Tampa's growth, but also on the people, partnerships, and shared commitment that continue to shape its future.
The Tampa Bay Chamber thanks Mayor Jane Castor for her years of service to our community and for joining us for what will be her final Face the Chamber appearance as Mayor of Tampa.
