Upscale Retail and Dining Hub Set To Replace Gas Station in St. Pete’s Grand Central District

A new retail and dining hub will soon stand where an old Citgo station sits at 2801 Central Ave. Build America Luxury Homes submitted city permits last week for the $5 million project, which will add 13,000 square feet of space to St. Petersburg's growing district.

"That gas station there was always an eyesore, in my opinion," said Qemal Hasanbelli, founder of Build America Luxury Homes, according to St. Pete Catalyst. "I spend so much time out there, it was one of my goals to do something nice."

Plans show a striking two-story structure. The ground floor splits into three units: a spacious corner spot with soaring 14-foot ceilings perfect for dining, plus two smaller retail spaces. Above, 6,200 square feet await tenants, complete with outdoor dining balconies and adjustable shade covers.

After buying the quarter-acre lot for $1.75 million in December 2023, crews spent 18 months cleaning up the site. Workers pulled out old fuel tanks and removed tainted soil from nearly seven decades of gas station operations.

The area buzzes with fresh construction. New neighbors include the recently opened Grand Central Townhomes with its 24 units, and the just-finished Driftwood on Central. Steps away at 2730 Central Ave., another retail project takes shape.

Construction starts in early 2026. The team aims to open doors by fall. Brokers report strong interest from possible tenants, with many eager to claim their spot in the building.

"I hope that our building continues to encourage other builders to develop projects here," Hasanbelli said per St. Pete Rising.

This adds to Build America's track record of upscale homes in Pinellas County and apartments in Treasure Island. The fresh design comes from Oldsmar's ArchEvoke Studio, known for their modern touch.