Progress Village

Progress Village whispers a story of progress and resilience. Right here, in the heart of Hillsborough County, lies a community forged from the dreams of Tampa’s African American residents. Progress Village emerged in the late 1950s. It was Tampa’s first low-income housing suburb, a planned community designed to offer affordable housing outside the city limits. This wasn’t just about bricks and mortar. Progress Village represented a vision of a better future, a place where families could thrive and build a life. Key figures like C. Blythe Andrews, Cody Fowler, James Hargrett, Sr., and Perry Harvey, Sr. championed this vision. They served on the original Board of Trustees for Progress Village, Inc. Their dedication laid the foundation for a community that continues to flourish today. Originally, Progress Village offered a haven for those displaced by redevelopment in predominantly Black neighborhoods. It aimed to be a “model community,” demonstrating the power of public enterprise and cooperative development. The 2020 census paints a picture of Progress Village today. A population of 11,188 calls this place home. The community has grown significantly from its earlier days. In the year 2000, the population was just 2,482. Progress Village Middle Magnet School of the Arts and Jack Lamb Elementary School stand on the southern edge of the community. They serve as vital centers of education and creativity, shaping the future generations of Progress Village. This community stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its residents. It showcases the transformative potential of collaborative efforts and community-driven development. Progress Village is more than just a place on a map. It is a living embodiment of progress, resilience, and the pursuit of a brighter future.