Tropicana Field Graves Search, Jordan Park Upgrades, and I-275 Ramp Closure Lead Local Headlines
St. Petersburg, FL – March 12, 2026 – City leaders advance a graves search at Tropicana Field, boost security in Jordan Park, and flag a key I-275 ramp closure.
It has been a busy week across St. Petersburg, with major decisions at City Hall, neighborhood safety efforts, and important traffic impacts for drivers.
Tropicana Field graves search moves forward
City Council has approved nearly $400,000 for the next phase of investigating possible graves beneath a Tropicana Field parking lot. The work, known as ground truthing, will physically examine underground anomalies previously detected near Lot 1.
The area was once part of Oaklawn Cemetery, a historically Black cemetery that closed in 1926. Researchers identified potential burial sites in 2024, and this new step aims to confirm whether human remains are present. City leaders say the effort is part of a broader commitment to acknowledge and address the site’s history as redevelopment conversations continue around the Trop.
Security upgrades completed in Jordan Park
In South St. Pete, police and city leaders say a series of safety and security upgrades have been completed in the Jordan Park neighborhood. Improvements include enhanced lighting, added surveillance measures, and a partnership with private security.
Officials say the goal is not only to reduce crime but to strengthen trust and community presence in the area. The upgrades come after concerns from residents about safety and quality of life. Police say they will continue working with neighbors to monitor results and adjust strategies as needed.
Late-night I-275 ramp closure impacts drivers
Drivers heading north on I-275 this week encountered a temporary overnight closure of the entrance ramp from 38th Avenue North. The ramp shut down at 11 p.m. Tuesday and reopened by early Wednesday morning, weather permitting.
Transportation officials directed motorists to detour using 34th Street North and Gandy Boulevard to reconnect with the interstate. While the closure was short-term, it served as a reminder for drivers to check for overnight construction notices as roadwork continues across Pinellas County.
Sources
https://www.fox13news.com/news/st-petersburg-moves-forward-search-possible-graves-beneath-tropicana-field-parking-lot
https://baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2026/03/10/st–pete-puts-focus-on-building-community-after-security-upgrades-hit-jordan-park-
https://www.aol.com/articles/st-petersburg-traffic-alert-night-154448106.html
