The Tampa Port Authority is pleased to announce that one of its latest construction projects, a 700+ space, multi-level parking garage, has been recognized with yet another award for design, coming on the heels of a similar award announced in April of this year.

The garage’s design plan, submitted to the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Tampa Bay chapter, has been recognized with a Merit Award for Architecture—Commercial Category in the association’s annual competition. The merit award is conveyed on those projects that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in architectural design.

The garage project was designed by the Tampa firm, HKS Architects, Inc. Construction is scheduled to begin in early summer, at a cost of about $13 million. Expected completion date is expected during summer 2010. Earlier this year, the project design concept was recognized as winner in the AIA—Orlando Chapter’s annual competition in the Unbuilt category.

“It’s great to see a project duly recognized for its sensible and aesthetically pleasing design,” Richard Wainio, Tampa’s port director and CEO, said. “Again, we thank the City of Tampa and the very apt HKS architect team for their contributions to the success of the project and for the enhancement it will provide to the Channelside district,” he said.

“The proposed garage site occupies a pivotal point in the Channelside District. In addition to being a visual landmark, it occupies an extremely limited site, surrounded on three sides by streets, and is a crossroads for pedestrians, cruise patrons and visitors to Channelside Bay Plaza,” Christopher Osborn, HKS Architects vice president, said. “Building overhangs, widened sidewalks and shade trees were of prime importance to enhance the pedestrian experience.”