Herman Massey Park | Tampa, FL

Preserving Mature Trees Through Innovative Design

Located in one of the oldest areas of Downtown Tampa, Herman Massey Park serves as a gathering space that connects the city's history with its ongoing revitalization efforts. Once surrounded by rail lines, warehouses, cigar industry activity, and port operations, the site redevelopment focused on creating a welcoming public destination while preserving key elements of the existing landscape.

A primary project challenge involved protecting seven mature Live Oak trees already established within the park. The design team sought a solution that would allow for the installation of large-format concrete pavers while minimizing disturbance to the critical root zones below.

To support these goals, Wausau Tile supplied its Hidden Lok-Down Paver-Pedestal System installed on-grade beneath 42" x 42" x 4" H-Series Estate (HRT) pavers weighing approximately 640 pounds each. The system provided a stable, elevated deck surface while helping preserve the health of the existing trees and reducing the need for extensive excavation.

The completed park demonstrates how innovative paving solutions can help balance preservation, performance, and long-term durability. By integrating an elevated paver system into the design, the project team successfully created an accessible public space that respects the site's natural assets while supporting the needs of a growing urban community.

Partners:

• City of Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)
• WGI
• Phinazee Consulting Services, Inc.

Products:

• Hidden Lok-Down System
• H-Series - Estate Architectural Pavers