Thunderbird Q&A

Community Questions & Answers

This page is dedicated to answering questions from the community about the redevelopment of Thunderbird Beach Resort. We understand that residents and visitors alike want clear and reliable information as the project moves forward.

All responses shared here are sourced directly from Thunderbird Beach Resort representatives. Questions submitted by the community are reviewed, and answers are provided based on verified information from the Thunderbird team to ensure accuracy and transparency.

Our goal is to create an open channel of communication where the community can stay informed, ask thoughtful questions, and receive factual updates about the redevelopment.

As additional questions are submitted and new information becomes available, this page will continue to be updated.

Q & A

Question: Why would you be so reckless as to request countywide maximums for density?

Answer:
According to multiple planning agencies, as well as local, county, and state officials, this request is not considered reckless. In fact, it is viewed as something that may be necessary for the redevelopment of Treasure Island. Requesting countywide maximum density does not mean every project will automatically be approved. It simply provides the opportunity for a project to request that density if it is appropriate and meets all required review and approval standards.  All necessary infrastructure studies will need to be completed in order to make certain the increased density can be sustained.

Question: It is clear that residents do not want increased height, so why do you keep pushing for it? You claim to listen to residents, but obviously you don’t, or you would see this is not wanted.

Answer:
What we have discovered through discussions with residents is that most people—including our team—do not support high-rise development or turning Treasure Island into something like Clearwater, which many associate with large high-rise buildings.

However, we have also found that a significant portion of the community supports the request to add 20 feet to the current limit, bringing the maximum height to 80 feet. Once many residents realized that the proposal is only for an additional 20 feet, support increased quickly. In fact, several people have said they wish they had understood this earlier in the process.

Question: Why are you not simply rebuilding the property as it was?

Answer:
The property has been determined to be 80% substantially damaged, which means under current regulations we are not permitted to simply rebuild it as it previously existed.  As a result, rebuilding exactly as it was is not an option under the current rules.

Submit any questions or feedback you have to the Thunderbird team:

*Please note any questions that need to be addressed will be posted on this page for public view.