Brainstorms nonprofit responds to New Port Richey CRA’s postponement on decision about future use of the Main & Bank building

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 7, 2026

Media Contact:
Thomas Sakser
Chief Facilities Planning & Development Officer
info@brainstormsnpr.com
813-774-2146

NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — The New Port Richey Community Redevelopment Agency postponed a decision Tuesday on proposals for the future use of the Main & Bank building, including Brainstorms’ proposal to create a permanent Science Discovery Center at the property.

The CRA tabled consideration pending further discussion and review. Brainstorms respects the CRA’s process and will provide any additional information requested as the Agency continues its consideration.

“Our responsibility isn’t simply to advocate for our proposal. It is to ensure the CRA and the public can examine it, question it, and make a decision grounded in good information,” said Daisy Thomas, Vice President of the Brainstorms Board of Directors. “Good governance requires that kind of scrutiny. We welcome it, we are confident in the work behind our proposal, and we will continue to answer questions openly as the process moves forward.”

Brainstorms has proposed rehabilitating the 14,397-square-foot Main & Bank building as a year-round center for hands-on STEAM education, environmental learning, family discovery, digital exploration, school and homeschool programming, and community engagement.

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The proposal includes a phased development process incorporating professional due diligence, design development, cost validation, funding confirmation, permitting, and other safeguards before construction. Brainstorms has also proposed measurable public-benefit goals and a diversified operating model intended to support the Center over the long term.

Brainstorms appreciates the many residents, educators, parents, business owners, and community members who participated in Tuesday evening’s public conversation about the future of the property and downtown New Port Richey. Brainstorms has held several public question-and-answer sessions throughout the proposal process and remains available to host additional opportunities for community discussion as the CRA’s review continues.

While the Main & Bank proposal remains under consideration, Brainstorms will continue its existing educational programming and community partnerships throughout the region.

“We appreciate everyone who has participated in this conversation,” said Thomas. “A project intended to serve the community for decades deserves thoughtful review, and we will continue doing our part in that process.”

Brainstorms will share additional information following further action by the CRA.

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About Brainstorms

Brainstorms is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization working to expand hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics, environmental learning, and discovery opportunities in New Port Richey and the surrounding region. Through community programming, partnerships, and development of a permanent Science Discovery Center, Brainstorms seeks to give curiosity somewhere to go.

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