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- Issue #593: Tampa Ferry Comeback & Fare Cuts • USF Murder Case Update • Inside $115M Mansion • Are Stadium Deals Worth It?
Issue #593: Tampa Ferry Comeback & Fare Cuts • USF Murder Case Update • Inside $115M Mansion • Are Stadium Deals Worth It?
4/29/2026
Ted Grellner
29 Apr
In partnership with
GOOD MORNING
Dr Teds
USAF Retired
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In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse
Our Event Calendar
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Local News
— Two Boats, Lower Fares: Ferry Service Returns to Tampa Bay
Crime
— Chilling Details Emerge in USF Students’ Murder Case
Of Interest
— Go-Karts to Grand Ballroom: $115M Tampa Mansion Stuns Market
Sports
— Economist Warns Tampa: Stadium Deals Rarely Pay Off
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Two Boats, Lower Fares: Ferry Service Returns to Tampa Bay
A revamped ferry service connecting Tampa and St. Petersburg is set to return with two boats and daily operations, marking a major upgrade from the previous system.
Officials from the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) announced plans to invest nearly $5 million, including the purchase and renovation of vessels like the San Juan Clipper. Renovations are expected to take 3–6 months, with service potentially resuming by fall 2026.
The ferry will dock at the Tampa Convention Center, offering commuters a reliable cross-bay alternative. Fares are expected to drop to $10 one-way, down from the previous $12–$14 range.
Unlike the former single-boat system, the addition of a second vessel allows for seven-day service, improving consistency. Leaders say the goal is to create a dependable, commuter-friendly transit option that is more financially sustainable than past operations.
Chilling Details Emerge in USF Students’ Murder Case
New details have emerged in the investigation involving two University of South Florida doctoral students, revealing a disturbing digital trail linked to the suspect.
Prosecutors say the accused, 26-year-old Hisham Abugharbieh, searched online about disposing of a body, altering a vehicle identification number, and firearm legality days before the victims disappeared. Authorities allege he later asked additional questions related to violence and missing persons.
The victims, Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, both 27, vanished on April 16, prompting a multi-agency investigation. Evidence recovered from the suspect’s residence reportedly included blood traces, personal belongings, and items discarded in a trash compactor.
Investigators later tracked movements to the Howard Frankland Bridge, where remains were discovered. The suspect now faces two counts of first-degree premeditated murder and is being held without bond as the case proceeds.
Go-Karts to Grand Ballroom: $115M Tampa Mansion Stuns Market
A sprawling 87-acre lakefront compound overlooking Lake Thonotosassa has hit the market for an eye-popping $115 million, making it the most expensive home currently listed in the Tampa Bay area.
Known as The Oaks Estate, the property features a 42,782-square-foot French Normandy-style mansion anchored by high-end finishes like hand-scraped oak floors, mahogany doors, and limestone columns. A floating glass boardroom adds a modern architectural touch.
The estate delivers unmatched amenities, including a go-kart track, bowling alley, indoor saltwater pool, spa, fitness complex, and a gentleman’s lounge. Outdoor features include equestrian facilities, paddocks, and a private jogging trail.
Accessible by helicopter or seaplane, the property offers ultimate privacy and exclusivity. Originally sold for $16.7 million in 2021, its current price reflects major expansions and positions it to potentially set a new Tampa Bay real estate record.
Economist Warns Tampa: Stadium Deals Rarely
Pay Off
A new economic analysis is raising concerns about the Tampa Bay Rays’ proposed stadium and surrounding mixed-use development, warning it may not deliver the financial benefits promised to taxpayers.
Drawing from the experience of the Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park and its adjacent “Battery” district, economist J.C. Bradbury argues that such projects often fail to generate enough revenue to offset public investment. While the Braves’ development produced tens of millions in annual revenue, it still resulted in an estimated $15 million yearly shortfall for the county.
The Rays’ proposal could require over $1 billion in taxpayer funding, far exceeding Atlanta’s subsidy. Experts say most stadium spending simply redistributes local dollars rather than creating new economic activity.
Despite promises of jobs and growth, critics caution the project represents a high-risk investment with uncertain long-term returns for the Tampa Bay community.
Tampa Bay’s Best Live Music
Apr 23 - Apr 30
Source: cltampa.com
Top Events in Tampa Bay for week of | |
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Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links
The Arts
- The Exhibiting Society of Artists (new)
- USF College of the Arts
- USF Steinway Piano Concert Series
Theater
- NTPAC - New Tampa Performing Arts Center
- New Tampa Players
- USF School of Theatre & Dance
- Wesley Chapel Theater Group
- Carrollwood Players Theatre
Misc
- Carrollwood Center Events
- Craft Festivals (new)
- Fall (Farmer’s) Market Guide for Tampa Bay (new)
- The Krate, WC
- The Shops at Wiregrass, WC
- visitflorida.com
For Kids
- Fun4TampaKids
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