The development of Bayfront Park being advanced by the current town commission is a quiet unimposing plan including a functional building, some nature paths along with a few recreational activities. If we utilize the Mediterranean Plaza as a large, almost free community center, that leaves all the land at Bayfront Park for other uses and possibilities.
What about blowing the doors off and creating something truly special
and world class on a spectacular piece of property?
Bayfront Park is a special Gulf-to-Bay property that might be developed as a world class beach park experience that rivals the best tropical get-aways, and will attract visitors and residents to our community. A beautifully developed beach park facility will be unique on the west coast of Florida, making Longboat stand out as a forward-looking world class community. Such a beach-front park would add immeasurably to our community image, while offering residents and visitors a beautiful gathering destination and tropical beach paradise experience.
The bay front property could be transformed into the jewel of our island
We have an opportunity to create the classiest most beautiful community beach and grotto presence on this coast of Florida. If we want to reinvigorate our community and add a community amenity that ups the bar, then perhaps we need to look at possibilities.
Particulars:
1) A spacious underpass between the beach and the Bayfront property would provide a first class beach facility similar to what is available on Lido Key. The beach cabanas could be run by a private concession and return a percentage of profits to the town. Longboat residents who presently have no beach access would enjoy the town beach. Having improved beach access on Longboat will enhance property values throughout the community.
2) A large tropical designer landscaped pool by the bay will offer a beautiful community experience year-round for everyone while enhancing our public amenities.
3) Tasteful concessions for food and beverages a cut above what is available at Siesta Beach. Anyone visiting Manatee Beach knows that it is a popular attraction on Anna Maria Island. I envisage a more refined eating experience in keeping with the quality ambiance of the property.
4) Parking needs to be creatively integrated into the design. The trolley can also transport people to and from the park adding capacity while minimizing space needed for on-site parking. Non-resident guests would be required to pay a fee and park at a remote parking facility. This should be a community amenity. During season it may be possible to run a "beach express" up and down the island supported by fares.
The town commission is proposing a utilitarian community center on the Bayfront property. The Bayfront property has the potential to become something really special on our island; lets not squander the opportunity to propel our community forward and create a beautiful compelling gathering place for residents and visitors alike. By utilizing the Mediterranean Plaza building to house a community center, we can devote resources to develop a striking jewel in the middle of our island that enhances our lifestyle and helps to bring the community together.
Bayfront Park Property - Gulf-to-Bay
We only have one chance to develop Bayfront Park - let's not waste it. We have the opportunity to set our expectations really high in order to achieve something that will make Longboat special.
If we create something truly beautiful, they will come.
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