Former Tampa Development Leader Launches Innovative Advisory Firm

Tampa’s former economic development chief, Nicole Travis, has embarked on a new venture by launching a real estate consulting firm. In a strategic move, she has also formed an alliance with one of the city’s most renowned land-use attorneys.

Travis, who recently stepped down from Mayor Jane Castor’s administration, has established URP Advisors. This new firm offers a comprehensive range of consulting services, including economic development, housing, urban revitalization, and corporate strategy.

Expanding Horizons: The Euclid Group Connection

URP Advisors has forged a strategic alliance with The Euclid Group, a Miami-based consulting firm specializing in large-scale urban planning and development. The Euclid Group, along with Shubin Law Group, both founded by attorney John Shubin, expanded their operations to Tampa in January after recruiting Jim Shimberg.

Shimberg, who previously served as general counsel for Water Street Tampa developer Strategic Property Partners and as city attorney under former Mayor Bob Buckhorn, brings a wealth of local expertise to the alliance.

A Serendipitous Partnership

Travis had already set her sights on launching her own firm when Shimberg approached her. Despite their paths not crossing directly during their time at the city, they were aware of each other’s reputations. Travis immediately recognized the complementary nature of their work.”I knew she would be a perfect person to work with us,” Shimberg stated, highlighting the natural synergy between their skill sets.

A Diverse Client Base

Travis has already secured notable clients, including developer Darryl Shaw, who is spearheading multiple projects in and around Ybor City. Her extensive background, which includes nearly 12 years in Lakeland where she rose to the position of deputy city manager, coupled with her experience as a practicing architect in the private sector, provides her with a unique perspective.

Bridging the Public-Private Divide

The combination of private and public sector experience equips Travis with the ability to act as a translator between real estate developers, politicians, and city staff.”If you’ve never worked on either side, you could be talking past each other,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of understanding both perspectives.

Facilitating Development with Clarity

Travis assists her development clients in navigating the complex regulatory landscape that governments operate within. She also helps developers gain clarity around public hearings and administrative approvals.”What matters to developers more than money is certainty,” Travis asserted. “Time kills all deals, and there’s a certain level of urgency that needs to happen. Developers can build under whatever timeline is needed, but they need to know and be able to plan for it.”

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