Newsroom & Press.
Member news, Chamber statements, media coverage and press contacts.
New businesses opening. Milestones reached. Awards won. Partnerships formed. Community impact made. This is where St. Pete business gets to celebrate itself — and where the Chamber makes sure those wins don’t go unnoticed.
We don’t just talk about St. Pete — we show up for it.
From the floors of the State Capitol to City Hall, from community forums to regional partnerships, the St. Pete Chamber is an active, vocal and proud champion for this city’s businesses and the people who run them. We track the legislation that affects you, engage the elected officials who represent you, and make sure the St. Pete business community always has a seat at the table.
Bianca Soler
Vice President, Executive Office & Brand
Where Chamber positions get said out loud.
Statements, testimony and forum remarks are published here alongside the press releases, so there is a single record of what the Chamber has actually said and when.
Chamber press releases and statements.
Official Chamber releases, statements and testimony, published in full. Journalists looking for comment on St. Pete business should contact the Chamber directly.
The live GrowthZone news listing appears here.
Historic Cordova Hotel Unveils Major Expansion, Blending Timeless Charm with Modern Luxury
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Historic Cordova Hotel Unveils Major Expansion, Blending Timeless Charm with Modern Luxury
St. Petersburg, FL — April 7, 2026 — The Historic Cordova Hotel today announced the grand opening of its highly anticipated expansion, marking a significant milestone in the property’s storied 105-year-old legacy. The new addition enhances the hotel’s capacity and amenities while preserving the architectural character and cultural heritage that have defined the Cordova for generations.
Originally established as a cornerstone of downtown St. Petersburg hospitality, the Historic Cordova Hotel has long been celebrated for its classic design and welcoming atmosphere. The newly completed expansion introduces 67 additional guest rooms and suites, thoughtfully designed to complement the original structure’s historic aesthetic while incorporating modern comforts and technology.
“This expansion represents an exciting new chapter for the Cordova,” said General Manager Chantelle Groves. “We’ve taken great care to honor the building’s history while creating new spaces that elevate the guest experience and meet the needs of today’s travelers. What’s especially exciting for a downtown boutique hotel is our ability to offer spacious one - and two-bedroom accommodations for families, along with a larger penthouse option that delivers a truly elevated guest experience.”
Highlights of the expansion include a rooftop lounge with sweeping city views, a soon-to-be-announced upscale dining concept focused on locally sourced cuisine, and expanded meeting and event spaces designed for both business and social gatherings. The project also introduces enhanced wellness offerings, including a fitness center and spa facilities.
The expansion was completed in collaboration with Place Architecture and a team of preservation specialists, who worked closely to ensure key historical elements were maintained and restored. The new addition integrates seamlessly with the original property, creating a cohesive experience that reflects both past and present.
The timing of the expansion aligns with St. Petersburg’s growing role as a regional destination for major events, including the upcoming Tampa Bay Blues Festival, positioning the Historic Cordova Hotel as a premier destination for visitors seeking both culture and comfort.
In celebration of the opening, the hotel will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony and weekend-long festivities featuring live entertainment, guided tours, and exclusive previews for invited guests and members of the community.
The Historic Cordova Hotel expansion is now open and accepting reservations.
About the Historic Cordova Hotel
The Historic Cordova Hotel is a landmark destination known for its rich history, elegant design, and commitment to exceptional service. Located in the heart of St. Petersburg, the hotel continues to serve as a gathering place for visitors and locals alike, offering a distinctive blend of heritage and hospitality.
Media Contact:
Tommy Del Zoppo
Partner
Historic Cordova Hotel
