PARKS REPAIR UPDATE from Sarasota County

Sarasota County Government: We've been in constant contact with County Officials re: Nora Patterson Park - South, the underpass walkway under the North Bridge to Nora Patterson Park North and Siesta Key Beach Access 1. We finally got some news worth sharing.

From: Scott Moranda, Beaches and Water Access Division Manager, Parks Recreation and Natural Resources, Sarasota County

"The three storm recovery repair items are currently under contract and the Board of County Commissioners recently approved the budget to move forward with the projects. The site inspections, FEMA assessments, and initial project scope development were completed prior, and we are now moving into the design and permitting phase. We anticipate this work to begin in the coming weeks. Currently the intent is to return the parks to pre-storm conditions depending upon the outcome of an evaluation of the construction costs once received. Please let me know the BISA schedule and I’ll mark my calendar to send you updates prior to your meetings or newsletter going out. Thank you."

City of Sarasota, Government: We don't have any new news from the City on Nora Patterson Park - North. They have been very slow to respond recently. From all accounts with the FEMA funds holdup, the recent addition of the new City Manager, and upcoming Commissioner elections, the City is re-evaluating all projects and preparing for the potential budget impact of the Property Tax changes that may occur in the November vote. We'll update you as soon as I have new information.