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Letter to the editor

Resort delayed; extension from city is expected

By Times Staff Writer
Published March 8, 2008

CLEARWATER

The $250-million Kiran Grand Resort and Spa on Clearwater Beach is expected to miss a key deadline today to begin construction. But developers almost certainly will get an extension from the city. Here's the background and what this means:

Why is the project delayed?

Last year, the original developer, Tampa entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr. Kiran Patel, changed his plans as the housing market collapsed. Patel formed a partnership with the Related Group, then changed the project from condos to a hotel development with 250 hotel rooms with 200 timeshares.

What's next?

Developers are expected to ask the city for an extension to their city project approval in upcoming weeks. The City Council typically grants these requests. In this case, an extension would be in the city's best interest since Clearwater is leasing part of the site - nearly 3 acres where S Gulfview Boulevard splits with Coronado Drive - and using it as a temporary beach parking lot.

So when will this thing get built?

That's not clear, but work probably won't start until after summer.

Oak tree hits car, disrupts traffic

Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard was closed for about an hour this afternoon after high winds blew a large oak tree onto the eastbound lanes of the road, police said. The oak had rotted at its base and fell onto a passing car, damaging the front end and passenger side but not injuring the driver. Public works employees cut up and removed the tree.

OLDSMAR

Kids, it's your day out at the park

A "Kids Day Out" takes place from noon to 6 p.m. today at R.E. Olds Park, 107 Shore Drive W. The event, sponsored by Tucker-Enterprise Youth Foundation, features free food, entertainment and special speakers to uplift and motivate youth. Boys get free haircuts and girls get free manicures. Volunteers and sponsors are always needed. For information, visit www.tuckerenterprise.org or call 1-800-281-3019.

[Last modified March 7, 2008, 22:17:24]