October 9, 2024 – As Hurricane Milton approaches, please be aware of important updates regarding the Lealman Exchange (LEX) and local emergency shelters.
Currently, LEX is closed to all except for the Helene shelter team stationed there and emergency crews, who will be deployed once conditions are safe. General operations at LEX are expected to be impacted by storm recovery efforts through early next week. Business operations in Building A will be suspended through the weekend, as it is expected to be used as a post-storm shelter. The status of operations in Building C and the Gym will depend on the property’s condition and the availability of power and water services.
For residents seeking shelter, the Lealman Innovation Academy still has some capacity but is filling up quickly. New Heights Elementary, located at 3901 37th St. N. in St. Petersburg, has just been opened to accommodate overflow. Meanwhile, Gibbs High School is nearing capacity and has run out of parking spaces.
Lealman Exchange is NOT Operating as a shelter as of October 9th, 2024 to the general public.