Historical Salcines Park Rededicated After $1.4 Million Reno

Former Judge E.J. Salcines cuts the ribbon on the rehabbed Salcines Park as dignitaries look on

The renovation of the Salcines Park in West Tampa was celebrated today with a gathering of community folks, dignitaries, and former judge EJ Salcines (some call him the Oracle of West Tampa) and his wife, Elsa.

Plaque commemorating the Salcines family at the entrance of the rehabilitated Salcines Park in West Tampa

The park, originally dedicated in 1991, was demolished

Salcines Park rededication 04-28-2026

Salcines Park prior to renovation was tattered and dirty

Entrance to rehabbed Salcines Park 2026

The park was first dedicated in 1991 by Mayor Sandra Freedman, who was present. Since that time, the area has fallen into disrepair, and properties along main street remained tattered. Recently, there has been a renaissance in the area, with several buildings getting major facelifts, and the Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency funding more than $1.4 million for the park project.

The rehab gutted the area and installed upgrades such as new steel pergolas to provide shade over tables and swinging benches, cafe-style tables with game boards and benches for inviting community gatherings, and new landscaping. They even added fountains atop the red-brick columned entrance.

Several people spoke at the gathering, including members of the City Council and the County Commission. EJ Salcines shared some of his family history in West Tampa, as well as an overview of the mural "Faces of West Tampa" on the north wall.

Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez, County Commissioner Harry Cohen, City Councilman Bill Carlson, County Commissioner Gwen Meyers, Former Mayor Sandy Freedman, City Councilman Charlie Miranda were some of the dignitaries attending the rededication of Salcines Park in West Tampa

City Council member Luis Viera addresses the crowd.

Joseph Robinson, Chair of the West Tampa Community Redevelopment Area, was last to speak, promising continued improvement to the area. He specifically mentioned Freedom Park, a lot purchased by the city from Joe Redner, and the former building next to Salcines Park that housed Cosy Corner, a neighborhood favorite shop.

Joseph Robinson, Chair of the West Tampa Community Redevelopment Area, discusses future projects in the works for West Tampa

Muralist Michelle Sawyer stands in front of the mural she co-created for Salcines Park Park mural