Jackson House Foundation launches emergency repairs after Tampa landmark partial collapse

Emergency Repairs Begin at Historic Jackson Rooming House in Tampa

Emergency repairs have started at the historic Jackson Rooming House in downtown Tampa, following a recent collapse of part of its east wall. This development comes just as plans to restore the 124-year-old building were beginning to take shape. The Jackson House, constructed in 1901, once provided a safe space for African American travelers during the era of segregation. It hosted notable figures such as James Brown, Ella Fitzgerald, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. However, the building has been closed since 1989 and has experienced gradual deterioration over the years.

The Tampa City Council recently approved a long-awaited 10-foot easement around the building, which was a major obstacle that had delayed restoration efforts for many years. This decision has brought hope to the Jackson House Foundation, as it allows the project to move forward. Angela Scott, vice chair of the foundation, expressed excitement about the easement and mentioned that three firms are eager to provide design plans based on the foundation's vision for the future of the house.

Just days after the city’s vote, a large section of siding peeled off the east side of the home, revealing rotting wood and confirming fears that the structure could not wait any longer. Carolyn Collins, chair of the Jackson House Foundation, stated that the house itself had signaled that it could no longer wait. Now, the focus is on moving forward with the necessary steps to ensure the building's safety.

The emergency repairs involve bracing the structure to prevent further collapse. These repairs are separate from the full-scale restoration. Once permits are approved, the work is expected to take approximately three days and could cost between $10,000 and $100,000, depending on the extent of the damage. Collins emphasized that these are emergency measures aimed at securing the house so it can remain standing safely.

The foundation has managed to raise about $4.3 million in funding through a combination of public grants and private donations, including a significant contribution from Jeff Vinik. However, leaders of the foundation acknowledge that delays have increased construction costs. Collins noted that the time for loss is over and that it is now time for gain, ensuring that young people can learn about the history of the Jackson House.

A committee is set to meet to finalize developer recommendations, with the full board expected to vote on a finalist by August 12. If approved by the Community Redevelopment Agency, a formal announcement will be made on August 22. Scott highlighted that on this date, the Jackson House Board will reveal the selected firm to help restore the historical site in Tampa.

Once the developer is chosen and the CRA approves the plans, full restoration is anticipated to begin in the coming months. The long-term goal for the Jackson House is to transform it into a museum that celebrates Tampa’s Black history. Collins stressed that the foundation is committed to moving as quickly as possible, working closely with code enforcement and the city to facilitate the process. She emphasized that waiting for six months is not an option, as the house cannot afford to delay any further.