michaelsaunders.com | 15
Riverwalk
I
n 2016, the City of Sarasota processed $442 million worth of permits—
comprised of renovations and mostly new construction of apartments,
condominiums, hotel rooms, offices and retail buildings. It is safe to say
that the allure of our little slice of paradise, with its balmy Gulf breezes
and powdery white beaches, is the impetus for all of this bustling activity.
While Sarasota continues to see such expansive growth, the surrounding areas are
experiencing similar exciting transformations. To the north, the City of Bradenton is
moving forward with a project designed to improve its downtown streetscape. Visitors
to the Old Main Street corridor will enjoy enhanced lighting and landscaping, among
other strategies to further refine its appeal and walkability. The picturesque Riverwalk is
already a draw for those seeking to explore Bradenton's cultural vitality.
Just a few blocks away, the South Florida Museum is adding 30,000 square feet to
its already sprawling 60,000-square-foot campus. The addition will be comprised of
a children's wing, a new outdoor area for community activities, a café and a hall to
accommodate traveling exhibits. Renovations to the museum's existing space are also part
of the plan, such as upgrades to the facilities for wildlife rehabilitation, where you'll find
resident manatee and local celebrity, Snooty.
Head south of Sarasota to the pastoral intersection of Tamiami Trail and River Road to
visit the potential future winter home of the Atlanta Braves. The Venice area is inching
ever closer to getting a major facelift with the possible addition of the team's brand-new
spring training complex. A stadium and related facilities will be located on property
that is adjacent to a planned 28-acre medical and wellness campus of Sarasota Memorial
Hospital. While talks to lure the Braves to town have been underway for more than a
decade, a final agreement seems imminent.
The Venice area is
inching ever closer to
getting a major facelift
with the possible
addition of the Braves'
brand-new spring
training complex.
IN THE NEWS
Snooty
michaelsaunders.com | 15
