Expanding the “Ring” of Resilient Green Space at The Bay
Phase 2 creates “More Park for All” by expanding the “ring” of resilient park green space around the site including the western edge along Sarasota Bay and the North Tamiami Trail frontage along the eastern edge of the park.
The total cost of Phase 2 is planned to be $65 million – with $48 million in funding coming from a TIF-backed City of Sarasota bond and the remaining $17 million coming from government grants and private sources.
Phase 2 Projects
Design and construction efforts of three projects are underway, and should be completed by the end of 2026.
1. Canal District
2. Cultural District
3. Resilient Shoreline
Note: Due to cost and timing, the Sunset Pier project is on hold.
Canal District
Improved and increased access from the water will be possible due to the addition of day docks and a rehabilitated, repaired and restructured seawall. Development of the first restaurant on the 53-acre park site will be created to provide the community with a much-desired bayfront dining experience.
Cultural District
Considered to be the “front door” of The Bay along North Tamiami Trail, the Cultural District honors and includes rehabilitation of historic buildings, such as the Chidsey Library, the Garden Club, the Municipal Auditorium and the Blue Pagoda (all on the National Register of Historic Places), and connects them with a stunning tree-lined promenade. A new vibrant Town Square will provide additional event and gathering spaces for programming, events and rentals, while enhancing the environmental qualities of the area.
Resilient Shoreline
Continuing to convert about a mile of bayfront located along the western edge of the park into a living, resilient shoreline will enable nature to handle and endure the flooding and storm surges that are inherent parts of tropical storms and hurricanes. Additional green space, walking paths and rain and stormwater ponds will improve water quality that flows into Sarasota Bay.