"Believe you can and you're halfway there." - Theodore Roosevelt

Travelers at Tampa International Airport are set for a transformed experience as the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority greenlights a massive $584 million upgrade package.

This ambitious plan aims to dramatically modernize and speed up the entire check-in process for local flyers and visitors.

At the heart of the overhaul are two main projects: a completely redesigned ticketing level and a new, state-of-the-art automated baggage system.

These upgrades are slated for completion between 2028 and 2029.

This is just one piece of a larger puzzle at TPA.

Construction is also well underway on the new $1.5 billion Airside D.

As the first new airside in nearly two decades, it will add 16 gates to accommodate the region's booming travel demands when it opens in 2028.

These projects are critical to handling TPA's projected growth to 35 million passengers annually.

A long-awaited retail center is officially under construction in Riverview at the corner of Balm Road and U.S. Highway 301.

Developer The Ferber Co. has acquired the 15.5-acre property for $4.2 million, promising new shopping and dining options for southern Hillsborough County.

The project is designed to serve the area's booming residential population and provide a needed alternative to the congested Big Bend Road corridor.

Confirmed tenants already include popular brands like Dutch Bros coffee, Discount Tire, and Tidal Wave Car Wash, with several quick-service restaurants also planned.

After navigating years of permitting challenges, the development is now moving forward, with financing handled by Cogent Bank.

Local broker Ryan Sampson of Eshenbaugh Land Co. called the project a “homerun” for the community.

The first businesses are expected to open by mid-2026, marking a significant investment in Riverview's economy.

In Florida, the conversation around hurricanes is never about if, but when.

For all residents, true readiness begins with a solid Family Emergency Plan.

Know your evacuation zone, decide now where you will go if an order is given, and establish an out-of-state contact for check-ins.

Your plan must also include arrangements for pets.

Equally critical is a hurricane prep kit to sustain your family for several days without power.

Stock at least one gallon of water per person daily, non-perishable foods, a manual can opener, flashlights, and a battery-powered NOAA weather radio.

Modern essentials include power banks and solar chargers.

Remember often-overlooked items like cash and prescription medications.

Perhaps most importantly, secure vital documents like insurance policies and IDs in a waterproof bag or save them to a secure cloud service.

Looking for a drink that’s refreshing any time of year? Meet The Cracked Coconut, Tampa’s source for authentic young green coconuts grown in Thailand.

These aren’t the hard, brown coconuts you see at the grocery store. Young Thai coconuts are filled with naturally sweet, mineral-rich water—smooth and delicious thanks to Thailand’s nutrient-rich soil and abundant sunshine. Each one is a tropical treat you can enjoy in January, July, or anytime in between.

Coconut water isn’t just tasty—it’s good for you. It’s naturally packed with electrolytes, antioxidants, and nutrients that support heart, kidney, bone, and digestive health. Many people also love it for boosting skin vitality and easing hangovers.

Fresh, natural, and good for you—The Cracked Coconut brings a taste of the tropics to your neighborhood, all year long.

Visit their website to learn more: thecrackedcoconuttampa.com