Advocates for the development say that "the Manatee County community has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create something of meaning along the 2.5 miles of frontage on Sarasota Bay known as Long Bar Pointe. A special place that generations of Manatee County residents can enjoy for years to come."
The developer feels confident that they can create a special place centered around a 4 or 5 star hotel. A destination location with a conference center, an adjoining boat basin, and a mixed-use village of restaurants, shops and other facilities. The plan also includes approximately 2500-2700 residences in a variety of housing products. The proposed single family homes will have a starting price in the $300s.
However, there is criticism in the media that is based on the environmental impact of the project.
The property has over 2.5 miles of shoreline with about 140 acres of mangroves. Boats from the boat basin will need to access the main channel in the bay through an opening cut in the mangroves and sea grass beds.
The developer argues that their team of highly recognized scientists are developing a program to offset the impact on the sea grass beds, resulting in a net positive environmental gain for these trees and plants.
As many as 6 different State and Federal agencies must approve this program before any work can be started.
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