WE NEED YOUR HELP - The median restoration project is in its final stages!
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The HTCA, along with the Median and Landscape Committee, have been working towards restoring the sign, landscaping, and electrical of our Nebraska/Clifton entrance median since 2019. If you aren't aware of the history, click here to read more. Our goal is to not only beautify our entrance, but to make it more safe. We can now finally see the finish line.
In 2022, we had the sign replaced, built from poly board material, which is sturdier and more resistant to the extreme heat, dry and wet spells. We expect the life expectancy is 30 or more years and the sign can be repainted as needed.
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On May 13, 2023, over 30 neighbors came out to help clear out the existing mulch and unnecessary plants. We have now prepped it for the final processes!
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Electrical:
At the end of 2022, one of our generous neighbors, Daniel, helped in repairing the main electrical box at the end of the median. His company, Copperline Electric, has been instrumental in getting the electrical repairs needed. Unfortunately, the underground conduit and existing lighting fixtures have been too badly damaged to be repaired, so all of it will need to be replaced. Now that the clear out has happened, they will be working to install new wiring and commercial grade fixtures. The sign, monument, and trees along the median will all be lit up once the project is done! This estimated cost of this project is about $7,600.
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Landscaping:
HTCA VP and Beautification Chair, Courtney, has been working with the City of Tampa Landscape Architecture department to finalize landscaping plans started by the median committee. This city approved landscaping plan will require very low maintenance, will help keep people off the median, and also includes a neighborhood butterfly garden! The city will be delivering the plants and pine needles this Saturday, 6/17 at 8am. This will be another "all hands on deck" event for neighbors to come out and volunteer! The estimated cost for all plant material is about $2,500.
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This project is being funded by donations from neighbors and the HTCA. The majority of the funds raised from the Great Seminole Heights Pumpkin Patch are going towards this median. With your donation, we will be able to free up some funds to provide more events and initiatives in the neighborhood!
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THE STORY OF THE MEDIAN:
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Once you turn onto Clifton from Nebraska, a charming neighborhood appears! One of only two entrance signs in the City of Tampa, a previously welcoming median with a well-manicured landscape and a beautifully lit, unique trellis sign, is unfortunately no more. The sign has rotted, the landscape is in bad shape and the lights have seen better days.
The Sign and Median Restoration Committee met for the first time in August 2020. The committee is led by Bill Truett and includes our neighbors - Karen Taylor, Brian Frey and Sid Roberts. The committee is tasked to bring back plans to restore the sign, repair the monument bricks, update the lighting/electrical and to create a Florida friendly landscape.
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It's important to let our neighbors know why this project is a significant piece of history for Hampton Terrace. In 2001, the entrance was a crumbling, dry fountain surrounded by weeds. A neighbor’s son, Steven Harris, proposed an idea to spruce up the gateway as an Eagle Scout Project. The neighborhood worked together with the Old Seminole Heights Neighborhood Association and City of Tampa to build the sign and monument, as well as install landscaping. It was a bold project that required funds to be raised and approvals from the City of Tampa, but in 2003 the project was completed. A photo of the completed project was supplied by Donna Harris, Steven's mom, who still resides on Idlewild. It is our plan to follow the well documented blueprint created by the committee in 2001.
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We have a tremendous opportunity as a neighborhood to work together, and continue to connect neighbors with neighbors. If you have any questions about this project or want to volunteer or donate, please email us at info@myHTCA.org.
Median Sign preparation 2002
Photo Credit: Donna Harris
