A potential new co-naming is on the horizon for one of downtown St. Petersburg’s busiest streets. The City of St. Petersburg, in conjunction with the University of South Florida — St. Petersburg (USFSP) is teaming up in a collaborative effort to co-name 2nd Street with the moniker “University Way”.

The initiative, spearheaded by USFSP officials, is aimed at promoting the university as an integral part of the City’s continuing growth and development. The proposal is part of the university’s larger strategic plan to transform downtown St. Petersburg into a more university-oriented district. Additionally, the unveiling of the new street signs would coincide with the kickoff event celebrating the 50th anniversary of USFSP on September 12th. If approved, 2nd Street will also be known as University Way from the university’s campus through downtown, terminating at the Palladium at St. Petersburg College on 5th Avenue North.

Helen Levine, USFSP’s Regional Vice Chancellor for University Advancement, explains her vision for the project. “I think it’s fabulous because it really acknowledges that young people and the university are part of the city, and I think it’s very powerful that it’s going through downtown. It’s not just one block or two blocks.”

There are several hurdles that must be cleared before the co-naming of 2nd Street can be made official, including a final vote by the St. Petersburg City Council. In order to reach the city council for final approval, the proposal must first be approved by a special commission convened by the city council, which will vote on the proposal on May 12th. If approved by the commission, the proposal will go to a public hearing, the reading of which would be scheduled for June 4th. If the proposal is ultimately approved when the city council convenes on June 18th, USFSP plans to host the mayor and city council members at the kickoff event for USFSP’s 50th anniversary celebration to unveil the sign. Costs associated with replacing the street signs with new ones bearing “University Way” would be covered by the city, with no cost to the university.

This proposal reflects the growing link between the City and the university that has become a centerpiece of the downtown district. Levine’s stance on the project reflects this relationship. “The (potential) co-naming of 2nd Street is a prime example of the partnership between the City of St. Petersburg and USFSP. I think as the city grows and prospers, the university grows and prospers.”