Park Tower

In the bustling heart of downtown Tampa, Florida, stands an architectural marvel that has witnessed the city's transformation over the decades. Park Tower, once known as the Lykes Building, is a testament to Tampa's growth and ambition. As the city's first high-rise, this iconic skyscraper, completed in November 1973, was once the tallest building in Florida. Today, it remains a prominent feature of Tampa's skyline, proudly holding its place as the sixth-tallest structure in the city.

A Historical Landmark

Park Tower's history is rich and varied. Originally home to The First National Bank of Tampa, the building has seen numerous transformations. It was also the headquarters for the Lykes Brothers Corporation, a significant player in Tampa's economic history. The tower changed hands in 2006 when Sterling American Property of New York City purchased it for $27.4 million, marking the beginning of its first major restoration. These renovations included updates to the elevators, air conditioning, and electrical systems, ensuring the building remained a modern and functional space.

Modernization and Renovation

In 2016, a joint venture led by City Office REIT, Feldman Equities LLC, and Tower Realty Partners acquired Park Tower for $79.75 million. This acquisition led to a multi-million-dollar renovation completed in 2019, which significantly modernized the building's appearance and amenities. The most notable change was the façade's transformation, where the exterior was painted a lighter color, and the main entrance was upgraded, giving the building a fresh, contemporary look. The renovations were designed by the internationally renowned architect Gensler, ensuring that Park Tower not only maintained its historical significance but also embraced modern design trends.

A Hub of Activity

Today, Park Tower is more than just an office building; it's a vibrant hub of activity. The tower boasts a variety of amenities, including a modern lobby, a fitness center, and a sixth-floor tenant lounge. For those needing a caffeine fix, the addition of Buddy Brew Coffee café is a welcome sight. The tower also houses a FedEx Office, U.S. Post Office, Grow Financial Credit Union, Pearl Salon, and Nature's Table Café, making it a convenient one-stop location for tenants and visitors alike.

Prime Location

Park Tower's location is one of its greatest assets. Situated directly across from The Tampa Riverwalk and the Hillsborough River, it offers easy access to some of Tampa's most popular attractions. Curtis Hixon and Gaslight Parks provide beautiful green spaces for relaxation and recreation, while the Glazer Children's Museum and the Tampa Museum of Art offer cultural enrichment. The tower is also within walking distance of the Tampa Convention Center, University of Tampa, and the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts, making it an ideal location for business and leisure.

Environmental and Technological Excellence

In addition to its aesthetic and functional upgrades, Park Tower is a leader in environmental and technological excellence. The building is LEED EB Gold Certified and EPA Energy Star certified, reflecting its commitment to sustainability. It features two underground 13.2kV electrical feeds from the utility power company, one of which is from the high-priority medical grid. Multiple diverse entry points for fiber optic and other data cabling ensure that the building remains at the forefront of technological advancements.

Security and Safety

Safety and security are paramount at Park Tower. The building is equipped with video-enhanced 24x7x365 on-site security, providing peace of mind for tenants and visitors. Additionally, Park Tower is home to a large underground Federal Reserve Vault, highlighting its importance as a secure and reliable location for businesses.

Tenants and Businesses

Park Tower hosts a diverse range of tenants, including the headquarters of CAPTRUST Advisors, LLC, Buddy Brew Coffee, and Continuity Logic, LLC. Anchor tenants include BB&T, the United States Department of Justice – US Attorney's Office, Level 3 Communications, and Lykes Insurance. This diverse tenant mix reflects the building's versatility and appeal to a wide range of industries.

In conclusion, Park Tower is not just a building; it's a symbol of Tampa's dynamic growth and evolution. Its rich history, modern amenities, and prime location make it a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a place to enjoy a cup of coffee with a view, Park Tower offers something for everyone. As you gaze up at this towering structure, you'll be reminded of Tampa's past, present, and future, all encapsulated in one remarkable building.