In a shocking announcement, the Tampa Bay Times has purchased the Tampa Tribune, with plans to consolidate operations to one newspaper.
It is not known whether this will expand regional sports coverage, or result in a decrease. At least 100 employees at the Tribune are anticipated to be laid off.
Here is a video from the Times on the merger:
The purchase of the Tampa Tribune puts the Times on solid financial footing and gives the Tampa Bay region an independent, locally owned newspaper that can keep serving customers and communities for the long term.