Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sarasota public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in roads with medium priority
Proposed collector designations for Orange Avenue and Circus Boulevard
Commissioner Ahearn-Koch flagged that the proposed thoroughfare plan restores streets removed in 2017 — including Orange Avenue and Circus Boulevard — as collectors, which she warned would upset residents already battling cut-through traffic. Staff said designation requires FDOT action and could unlock funding, but acknowledged outreach wasn't targeted to affected neighborhoods.
Advanced air mobility MOU
The airport is leading a regional planning framework for future air taxis, cargo drones, and similar aircraft. It's advisory only — no service or site is approved — but a signed MOU could come before Thanksgiving.
10th Street and Boulevard of the Arts redesign
Resident Dan Lobeck urged the city to back out of the 'road diet' portion of this federally funded project, citing a potential 500-unit development at the old Sarasota Military Academy site. Public Works says a traffic study will check whether lane repurposing still works before any change is made.
US 41 corridor improvements and 47th Street beacon
FDOT partnerships totaling over $4.1 million will resurface and improve safety on US 41 from North Myrtle Street to south of General Spaatz Boulevard, plus design a pedestrian hybrid beacon at 47th Street.
Rosemary District Parking
Mayor Trice argues the parking shortage exists because the city never required developers of multi-unit housing to provide enough accessible spaces, and now taxpayers would subsidize new parking. She asked staff to research a fix, complicated by state preemption under SB 180.