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- Changes Are Coming to Southshore - Stay in the Loop
Changes Are Coming to Southshore - Stay in the Loop
Wednesday, February 19th, 2025
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The Urban Sprawl is Eyeing You
Howdie, it’s The Southshore Circle—like your nosy neighbor, but with better facts and fewer HOA complaints!
In Today’s Edition:
Southshore’s Urban Sprawl - Get Ready to Rumble
Southshore is growing—fast. Whether you see it as progress or a problem, the Urban Service Area (USA) expansion is set to reshape our community in a big way. With Hillsborough County preparing for a population surge, the push for new developments, infrastructure upgrades, and urban sprawl is well underway. But what does that actually mean for you?
🚧 What’s Happening?
Hillsborough County is expanding the designated Urban Service Area to accommodate future growth. Phase 1 started with Balm and Wimauma. And while community meetings and public hearings are ongoing, Phase 2, which will focus on the I-4 Corridor and Little Manatee South is starting to kick up dust. This means more housing, more businesses, and—let’s be real—probably more traffic headaches.
If you’ve noticed an uptick in construction, that’s just the beginning. With projections showing over 530,000 new residents by 2050, the county is scrambling to ensure infrastructure keeps up. (Perhaps too little too late.) Think roads, schools, and public utilities—things that will make or break Southshore’s livability in the coming years.
🏡 How It Affects You
More Development: New housing and commercial projects could bring opportunities—but also congestion.
Property Values: Growth could mean rising home values, but also potential tax implications.
Traffic & Infrastructure: Expect more road expansions, but also increased strain on existing highways and public services.
Community Impact: The character of Southshore is evolving—how do we ensure smart growth that benefits residents?
📆 Upcoming Meetings—Make Your Voice Heard!
Want a say in Southshore’s future? The county is holding public meetings where residents can learn more and voice their concerns:
📍 February 24th – Planning Commission Public Hearing
📍 March 13th – BOCC Public Hearing (Transmittal)
📍 May 8th – BOCC Public Hearing (Adoption)
This is your chance to ask the tough questions: Will our roads handle the growth? Are schools prepared? What about local businesses? If you don’t speak up, decisions will be made without your input.
🤔 What’s Next?
The future of Southshore is being built right now—literally. Whether you’re excited for new opportunities or dreading the traffic jams, one thing is clear: change is coming.
Stay tuned as we track these developments and break down what they really mean for you. And if you attend the meetings, drop us a line—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
📢 What do you think? Is urban sprawl good for Southshore, or are we growing too fast? Reply and let us know!
Duck Domestic Violence with Mary & Martha House
There are a lot of controversial issues going on in the world today. But the one thing we can all agree on is domestic violence sucks. It isn’t something that just happens in the news. It’s a reality affecting families right here in our own community. It doesn’t discriminate by age, income, or background, and too often, it goes unseen until it’s too late. That’s why organizations like Mary & Martha House are stepping up to make a difference, providing safety, support, and resources for survivors of domestic violence and homelessness.
On March 15th, Mary & Martha House is hosting a special event: DUCK Domestic Violence—a powerful gathering aimed at raising awareness and supporting those affected.
What is Mary & Martha House?
For over 40 years, Mary & Martha House has been a beacon of hope for women and children escaping abuse or facing homelessness in Southshore. Their mission? Provide emergency shelter, transitional housing, job training, and the resources needed to rebuild lives. They don’t just offer a place to stay—they help survivors regain independence and confidence so they can move forward.
Why It Matters
Domestic violence thrives in silence. Many survivors feel trapped—whether by fear, financial dependence, or lack of resources. Events like DUCK Domestic Violence bring these issues into the open, ensuring that no one has to suffer alone.
By attending, donating, or simply spreading the word, you can help change lives.
📍 Mark Your Calendar!
📅 March 15th
📍 Mary & Martha House
Want to get involved? Visit marymarthahouse.org for more details on how you can support their mission.
What’s washing up on the shore this week:
Brian Ray Live at Jerry Dock’s Side
Come out for great food brews and live music on the river, Date & Time: Friday, February 21, 2025, 5:00 PM Location: 9808 Vaughn St., GibsontonMovie in the Park
Watch a family-favorite movie on the big screen with your friends and neighbors!, Date & Time: Friday, February 21, 2025, 6:00 PM Location: 7205 Parkshore Dr, Apollo BeachCaffeine and Chrome Car Show
Classic Cars and Coffee at Gateway Classic Cars of Tampa, Date & Time: Saturday, February 22, 2025, 9:00 AM Location: 351 30th Street NE, RuskinLucaya Lake Club Birthday Bash Market
Vibrant Pop-Up Market in the heart of Lucaya Lake Club, Date & Time: Saturday, February 22, 2025, 10:00 AM Location: 11305 Lake Lucaya Dr, RiverviewA dynamic and challenging Tactical Fitness event designed to simulate real-world defensive and offensive scenarios, Date & Time: Saturday, February 22, 2025, 8:30 AM Location: 2102 24th St SE, Ruskin
Live Music Night
Enjoy live music and Foxtail Coffee, Date & Time: Saturday, February 22, 2025, 6:30 PM Location: 12350 U.S. Hwy 301 S, Unit 108, RiverviewCacao Ceremony |Breathwork| Sound Alchemy
Self-care and healing, Event by Apollo Beach Wellness Spa, Jo Anne Cobb and Mandi Rose. Date & Time: Sunday, February 23, 2025, 3:00 PM Location: 256 Apollo Beach Blvd, Apollo Beach
The Rumor Mill:
Rumor has it Chipotle is setting up shop near the US 301 entrance to the Walmart Supercenter on SR 674—because nothing fuels a shopping spree like the promise of a burrito the size of your forearm. 🌯🔥
Meet your neighbor:
Don’t be so anti-social.
Foodies Only:
El Rodeo Mexican Bar & Grill
A family-owned gem right off 41 in Ruskin, this traditional Mexican restaurant—formerly known as Buchos—has been a longtime go-to for all of us here at The Circle. The salsa? So good you might drink it. The decor? Cozy, authentic, and perfect for pretending you're on vacation. And the lunch fajitas? These are so sizzlingly good, you’ll swear you hear a mariachi band playing in the background.
If you haven’t tried this spot yet, don’t sleep on it. And if you’re not a fan of Mexican food… honestly, are you okay? Because life without chips and salsa just sounds tragic.
Local Sports:
Girls’ Basketball
The Last Girl’s Standing
After an incredible season, finishing with a dominant 23-6 record, the East Bay girls basketball team’s playoff run came to a hard-fought end in the Regional Semi-finals against the No. 2 ranked Clearwater squad. 🏀💪 The Lady Indians have been nothing short of electric all year, led by junior scoring machine Za’myria King (19.6 PPG) and sophomore rebounding powerhouse Victoria Whitfield (7.3 RPG). These girls brought energy, hustle, and heart to every game, making the entire Southshore community proud. 🔥👏
The best part? They’re just getting started. With a young and talented roster, next season promises to be another historic one for head coach Kaela Crowell and her team. We can’t wait to see what’s next! 🚀🏆 A huge congratulations to the Lady Indians on an amazing season—your hard work and dedication don’t go unnoticed! Southshore is behind you all the way! ❤️🏀
The Neighborhood Post:
Coming Soon
News or Events you’d like to share? Email us at: [email protected]
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