Notices

Road Closure CSX

September 22, 2023

Manatee County and CSX will be performing an intersection and railroad improvement at 17th St E and 28th Ave E in Ellenton.

The closure will be starting Monday, Sept. 25th and work is estimated to last until Oct. 27th when roadway is re-opened.

Please note that while east-west traffic on 17th Ave E will be closed and required to follow the detour, local traffic can use north-south directions on 28th Ave E during the work.

Thanks for your continued patience while we improve the safety of this intersection.

Sincerely,

Matt Merucci

Right of Way Supervisor and Zoning/MOT Inspections

Manatee County Public Works

1022 26th Ave E

Bradenton FL 34208

Mobile Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Rubonia

September 22, 2023

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (September 22, 2023) – In coordination with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other agencies, a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center (MDRC) is being established in Manatee County at the Rubonia Community Center (located at 1309 72nd St. E.) starting tomorrow (September 23, 2023) from 1:00 through 7:00 p.m.

The MDRC is scheduled to be open 7 days a week for the next month, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., in the parking lot adjacent to the Community Center. Information will be available from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Citizens can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, updating applications and finding other available recovery resources.

Additional dates and locations may be added as need is determined. Manatee County has been approved for Individual Assistance and Small Business Assistance following Hurricane Idalia, which allows individuals and households in the county to apply for financial and direct services from FEMA. For more information on disaster assistance, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

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Bill Logan

Information Outreach Manager

Office: (941) 742-5866

Cell: (941) 274-0930

bill.logan@mymanatee.org

Goblin Gathering

September 22, 2023

Goblin Gathering is Back With More Frightful Fun in 2023

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (September 22, 2023) – Now into its third decade offering family Halloween Fun, the 21st Goblin Gathering is ready to take over Bradenton’s G.T. Bray Park from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 13, 2023.

This always-popular event will feature a costume contest, food trucks and a spooky trail to explore. A $5 wristband will be sold for children to participate in the face painting, petting zoo, pony ride and bounce houses. Parental participation and trick-or-treating is free. Wristbands will be on sale beginning Friday, October 6, at the front desk inside the G.T. Bray Recreation Center (no refunds or replacements will be issued). Wristbands will also be available on a cash-only basis at the event entrance on the day of the event.

Representatives from the County and several local community partners will distribute “treats & sweets” to participants, providing a safe alternative for children to trick-or-treat. Vendors also will be on hand with food for purchase.

G.T. Bray Park is located at 5502 33rd Avenue Drive West in Bradenton. Goblin Gathering visitors may access G.T. Bray Park via 59th St. W. or 51st St. W. and are asked to park near the Recreation Center. For more information, consult the County Website event page at mymanatee.org/goblin and Facebook event: https://m.facebook.com/events/611887610932398.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @ManateeGov.

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Bill Logan

Building and Development Services Building and Permitting

September 20, 2023

In preparation of the transition to the 8th Edition 2023 Florida Building Code that will go in effect January 1, 2024, Building and Development Services will require the following:

• All building record applications to fall under the 7th Edition 2020 Florida Building Code, will need to be submitted and paid by December 29, 2023, 3:00pm.

• Online Services will be unavailable December 29, 2023, after 3:00pm through January 1, 2024, at noon for scheduled maintenance. (Please note that you will still be able to lookup status of permits already submitted and schedule inspections).

• Any record that has been submitted and has unpaid fees on December 29, 2023, at 3:00pm, will be removed from the system and will require to be reapplied for under the new 8th Edition 2023 Florida Building Code.

• All applications that are in a temporary status, not yet submitted in your Online Services Account will be deleted and a new application will need to be created under the 8th Edition 2023 Florida Building Code.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause however it is necessary to transition into the new code and Online Services scheduled maintenance.

900 78th St NW- Road Improvements

September 19, 2023

Manatee County will be commencing an intersection improvement project at 9th Ave NW and 78th St NW, starting October 2nd.

This work is expected to take until Mid-January ’24 until ultimate completion of the new roundabout configuration.

During that time, 9th Ave NW and 78th St NW will be fully closed and a detour required per the attachments above.

The detour specific routing will be as follows:

Traffic needing to go westbound on 9th Ave NW will have to go north on 75th St W to west 17th Ave NW, and back south on 99th St NW.

Traffic needing to go eastbound on 9th Ave NW will have to go north on 99th St NW to east 17th Ave NW, and back south on 75th St NW.

Please note that accommodations will be made for the intersection to be re-opened over Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year Holiday.

Thank you for your patience while we make these improvements.

Sincerely,

Matt Merucci

Right of Way Supervisor and Zoning/MOT Inspections

Manatee County Public Works

1022 26th Ave E

Bradenton FL 34208

Road Closure 9th St East & Us 301

September 15, 2023

There will be an upcoming full road closure on 9th St E, between US 301 and 13th Ave E.

Local traffic and business traffic will be permitted south of 13th Ave on 9th St E as needed for Tropicana or other businesses, but there will be no direct access from the US 301 side.

The scheduled work duration is Sept. 18th through Oct 20th.

The scope of work is to replace the existing CSX Railroad crossings and approaches.

Please plan a detour route per the attachment while this critical work is underway.

Matt Merucci

Right of Way Supervisor and Zoning/MOT Inspections

Manatee County Public Works

1022 26th Ave E

Bradenton FL 34208

Manatee Preserves Highlight Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail Sites

September 15, 2023

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (September 14, 2023) – Manatee County has received another honor that’s “for the birds.” The Robinson Preserve—noted for its diverse avian populations—has been added to the Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail sites.

Sites listed on the official Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail are selected for inclusion based on their unique wildlife viewing opportunities and ecological significance, educational opportunities, access for the public and resilience to recreational use. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has proudly selected 14 new sites (including Robinson Preserve) to receive this distinction.

“This is a highly valued designation,” said Charlie Hunsicker, Director of Manatee County Natural Resources Department. “Visiting birders will be rewarded with a great experience.”

Already, Manatee County’s Emerson and Leffis Key Preserves are on the Trail list—a network of more than 500 premier wildlife viewing sites across the state. Every year, millions of people, residents and visitors alike, participate in wildlife viewing activities, contributing billions of dollars to Florida’s economy. But the goal of the Trail is to encourage conservation of Florida’s native habitats and species.

“This is a huge honor,” said Commissioner Jason Bearden. “To be included, again, is testament to our County’s commitment to natural resources.”

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

Manatee County Names County Administrator and Deputy Administrator

September 13, 2023

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (September 12, 2023) – The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has made a pair of appointments to County leadership positions, selecting Charles (Charlie) Bishop as Manatee County Administrator and Bryan Parnell as Deputy County Administrator.

Bishop had been the acting Administrator for Manatee County since August 2023 after serving as a Deputy County Administrator for two years. He started with Manatee County as a Project Manager in 2001 and has been the Facilities Services Manager, Infrastructure Division Manager, Construction Services Division Manager, and for almost 12 years, the Director of Property Management. The motion to make Bishop the permanent administrator passed 6-1, with Commissioner George Kruse casting the dissenting vote.

“Thank you, and I am up for the challenge,” said Bishop, addressing the Board and thanking County colleagues who have worked with him. “We have a great team."

“I strongly feel we found the right person for the job,” said Commission Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge. An employment contract will be negotiated with the County Attorney and brought back to the BOCC for approval at a future meeting.

Parnell is a registered Professional Engineer in Florida and a Certified Energy Manager. He has a Bachelor’s in Architectural Engineering from Pennsylvania State University and a Master’s of Engineering in Project Management from the University of Maryland.

He is retiring from the U.S. Navy, where he most recently served as the Assistant Regional Engineer for Navy Region Southeast. In that position, he was responsible for programming and execution of a $925M annual budget across 18 naval installations which include 24,000 facilities and 170,000 acres of property.

“I am excited and thrilled to serve this community as I’ve served the Navy,” said Parnell, adding that he and his wife, Lindsay, are excited about relocating here from the Jacksonville area with their two sons, Jack (8) and Luke (4). “Manatee County is the location where we want to settle. This is a great place for us to be.”

Parnell’s appointment was unanimously approved by the BOCC. His first day with the County is scheduled for October 16, 2023.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

Player’s Drive and Lorraine Road Roundabout Project Public Information Meeting Announced

September 12, 2023

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (September 12, 2023) – Manatee County is hosting a Public Information Meeting for the upcoming improvements at the intersection of Player’s Drive and Lorraine Road. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at St. Mary Magdalene Episcopal Church, 11315 Palmbrush Trail, Bradenton, FL 34202.

The public meeting will provide citizens with an opportunity to learn more about the proposed improvements for the intersection. Guests will be invited to view design boards and plans. Project staff will also be on hand to answer questions and provide other project-related information. There will be no formal presentation and guests may arrive any time between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

This project includes a roundabout to be constructed at the Player’s Drive and Lorraine Road intersection with pedestrian ramps, crosswalks with Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs), pavement resurfacing of all approach lanes, lighting and the reapplication of appropriate pavement markings. Construction of the project will begin in late fall of 2024 and be completed by late fall of 2025.

Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status. Persons who require special accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact Kim Middleton, Manatee County ADA Coordinator, by phone at (941) 748-4501, ext. 6012, or by email at Kimberly.Middleton@mymanatee.org at least five (5) days prior to the public meeting. Persons who require translation services (free of charge) should contact Valerie Ciudad-Real at (813) 404-1572 or by email at valeriec@valerin-group.com at least five (5) days prior to the public meeting.

Individual and Small Business Assistance Available From FEMA

September 11, 2023

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (September 11, 2023) – Manatee County has been approved for Individual Assistance and Small Business Assistance through FEMA following Hurricane Idalia, which allows individuals and households in affected areas of Manatee County to apply for financial and direct services.

For more information on FEMA disaster assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-3362. As more information on the application process is available, it will be shared on social media and here on the county website at mymanatee.org/FEMA.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

Honore Avenue at Old Farm Road Roundabout Project Public Information Meeting Announced

September 6, 2023

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (September 6, 2023) – Manatee County is hosting a Public Information Meeting for the upcoming improvements at the intersection of Honore Avenue and Old Farm Road. The meeting will be held on Thursday, September 21, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 7461 Prospect Road, Sarasota, 34243.

The public meeting will provide citizens with an opportunity to learn more about the proposed improvements for the intersection. Guests will be invited to view design boards and plans. Project staff also will be on hand to answer questions and provide other project-related information. There will be no formal presentation and guests may arrive any time between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

This project includes a roundabout to be constructed at the Honore Avenue and Old Farm Road intersection with pedestrian ramps, crosswalks with Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs), pavement resurfacing of all approach lanes, lighting and the reapplication of appropriate pavement markings. Construction of the project will begin in late fall of 2023 and be completed by late fall of 2024.

Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status. Persons who require special accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact Kim Middleton, Manatee County ADA Coordinator, by phone at (941) 748-4501, ext. 6012, or by email at Kimberly.Middleton@mymanatee.org at least five (5) days prior to the public meeting. Persons who require translation services (free of charge) should contact Valerie Ciudad-Real at (813) 404-1572 or by email at valeriec@valerin-group.com at least five (5) days prior to the public meeting.

For additional project information, please visit the project website at mymanatee.org/oldfarm.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

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Bill Logan

Information Outreach Manager

Office: (941) 742-5866

Cell: (941) 274-0930

bill.logan@mymanatee.org

Community Action Agencies

September 6, 2023

Manatee · Step Up Suncoast, Inc. (LIHEAP, CSBG, and WAP)

· Phone: (941) 827-0188

· WAP ext. 7806

Bridge Water Main Repairs Postponed

September 1, 2023

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (September 1, 2023) – Due to delays in acquiring materials, the lane closure and construction activities along the Manatee Avenue (SR 64) bridge over Anna Maria Sound, scheduled to begin September 6, have been postponed. The rescheduled date is anticipated to be late September or October. A notification will be made at that time, regarding any potential traffic impacts.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

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Bill Logan

Information Outreach Manager

Teledoc ****Prescription

September 1, 2023

Teladoc is providing free virtual health care services, including general medical telehealth visits, non-emergency services, and prescription refills, to Florida residents, first responders and others directly impacted by Hurricane Idalia. Call Teladoc directly at 855-225-5032

Anna Maria Bridge Water Repair

August 23, 2023

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (August 23, 2023) – Beginning Wednesday, September 6, further work to repair and relocate a water main along the Manatee Avenue (SR 64) Bridge over Anna Maria Sound will require periodic lane closures and periods of one-way traffic.

Daily lane closures can be expected between 7:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. This will allow crews to complete the last phase of this repair—installing additional hangers to support the pipe on the east side of the bridge. Due to safety concerns, the work is not possible at night.

While it is anticipated that the work to secure the pipe will take two-to-three weeks, specific information on any future closures will be provided as needed. Motorists who want to avoid the work zone should consider accessing Anna Maria Island via the Cortez Bridge.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

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Bill Logan

Information Outreach Manager

Office: (941) 742-5866

Cell: (941) 274-0930

bill.logan@mymanatee.org

Manatee County Provides Season-Specific Care Packages

August 22, 2023

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (August 22, 2023) – As temperatures along the Florida Suncoast continue to rise, the Manatee County Community Paramedicine team continues to provide Season-Specific Care Packages (SSCP) as part of its Outreach strategy.

“We have seen an influx of heat-related calls for service,” said EMS Chief and Deputy Director of Public Safety James Critchfield. “High heat does not discriminate. Our first responders are responding to people working in their yards and on construction sites, as well as those experiencing homelessness. Drinking plenty of water and taking frequent breaks from the heat is extremely important.”

These Care Packages include comfort items, such as water bottles, cooling towels, sun hats, sunscreen, bug spray, electrolyte packets and lip balm. With the intention of establishing a connection between at-risk individuals and community-based resources, these packages will be handed out in addition to the normal Public Safety Outreach efforts.

“This is just another example of how our amazing Public Safety team takes a pro-active response to the needs of our community,” said District Four Commissioner Mike Rahn.

During periods of excessive heat, it's best to remain indoors. Should you find yourself outside in the elements, here's how to protect yourself:

• When possible, use indoor facilities that accommodate physical activity.

• Plan outdoor activities for the coolest times of the day.

• Limit and reduce duration of outdoor activity.

• Take frequent breaks.

• Provide drinking water before, during and after the activity.

• Drink more water than usual. Avoid drinks with sugar, alcohol, and caffeine.

• Pace physical activity.

• Plan for cool-down recovery time in the shade if possible, following an outdoor activity.

• Wear light colored clothing, wide-brimmed hats.

If you are outdoors, know the signs of heat exhaustion. Are you feeling faint or dizzy? Are you pale, or is your skin clammy? See the warning signs below.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

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Bill Logan

Information Outreach Manager

Office: (941) 742-5866

Cell: (941) 274-0930

bill.logan@mymanatee.org

Twitter

Facebook

Website

Copyright © 2023, Manatee County Government, All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:

1112 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205

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Supplier Outreach

August 14, 2023

Manatee County to Host Supplier Outreach Symposium in September

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (August 14, 2023) – To increase its engagement efforts, Manatee County’s Procurement Division will host a Supplier Outreach Symposium for suppliers to meet with representatives of Manatee County departments. This event is designed to involve a diverse group of suppliers and provide guidance on how to do business with Manatee County. This will also be an opportunity for suppliers to share information on their services and goods available to Manatee County.

The Supplier Outreach Symposium will be held on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at the Manatee County Administration Center, 1112 Manatee Avenue West in Bradenton.

In addition to networking with other business professionals and members of both the Manatee County Procurement Division and multiple Manatee County departments, the event will include a How to Do Business with Manatee County workshop presentation at 9:00 a.m. and again at 10:30 a.m. The workshop is intended to cover the basics of doing business with Manatee County Government, followed by a brief question-and-answer period.

Pre-registration is available at this link. Supplier registration will also be available at the event. Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. Learn more about Manatee County’s Procurement Division at mymanatee.org/purchasing.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

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Bill Logan

Information Outreach Manager

Office: (941) 742-5866

Cell: (941) 274-0930

bill.logan@mymanatee.org

Our mailing address is:

1112 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205

Pickle Ball Press Release

August 14, 2023

Pickleball Magazine Names G.T. Bray Courts Among Best in the U.S.

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (August 13, 2023) – Manatee County’s investment in infrastructure—specifically in the areas of recreation and court sports—is paying off with more honors. Pickleball Magazine has named the pickleball facility at G.T. Bray Recreation Center one of the best in the country in its “25 Great Places to Play Pickleball” analysis.

The article curates a coast-to-coast collection of court complexes, “from ocean breezes to mountaintop views, finding outdoor pickleball courts open to the public is as easy as one, two, dink! We’ve compiled a list of just some of the wonderful places to play pickleball in the open air around the country.”

“G. T. Bray Pickleball Complex is a state-of-the-art facility. It’s no surprise to our users to be named one of the best,” said Deputy Director of Manatee County Sports and Leisure Services Molly White. “We have a great community, and we are happy to be able to meet their pickleball needs while attracting tournaments with players from all over the US.”

In addition to a rundown of the location, court count and contact information, the Top-25 list features a brief overview of the facility:

“Opened in 2022, the new C.V. Walton Racquet Center pickleball courts at the G.T. Bray Recreation Center are a terrific place to play. There are 20 courts, 14 of which are covered and include large ceiling fans to keep the air circulating during the hot summer months. Reservations for the outdoor courts may be made six days in advance. The reservation line opens at noon. Open play available daily.”

“It’s great to see recognition like this,” said Manatee County Commission Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge. “It is an acknowledgement of the ongoing commitment to keeping our county amenities world-class.”

Click here for more information on Manatee County Sports and Leisure Services programs and activities.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

###

Bill Logan

Information Outreach Manager

Office: (941) 742-5866

Cell: (941) 274-0930

bill.logan@mymanatee.org

Twitter

Facebook

Website

Copyright © 2023, Manatee County Government, All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:

1112 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205

Want to change how you receive these emails?

You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list

Vessels Arrive for New Gulf Islands Water Ferry Service

July 14, 2023

Vessels Arrive for New Gulf Islands Water Ferry Service

Services anticipated to start late summer/early fall

BRADENTON, FL (July 13, 2023) - The two 50-foot catamarans, as part of the highly anticipated Gulf Islands Ferry service, have splashed down in Cortez, Florida. The water ferry service is set to transport visitors and locals between downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island. The service is anticipated to launch later this summer.

“This has been a long time in the making for Manatee County,” said Executive Director of The Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, Elliott Falcione. “I commend our colleagues throughout the County, our Board of County Commissioners and Tourist Development Council members, who have worked tirelessly to bring this service to our community.”

The service, marketed by The Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (BACVB) and operated by Gulf Coast Water Taxi, is a tremendous first step in providing multi-modal transportation throughout the County. In addition to providing easy transport to the island, the service is an extended commitment in working to preserve and protect the natural beauty of the area for future generations. Powered by renewable energy sources and energy-efficient design elements, the vessels further support BACVB’s Love It Like a Local initiative and Leave No Trace commitment.

A one-way ticket will cost $8 per person, providing an economical and easy way to hop between the mainland and island. Special pricing will be available for children and seniors. The two catamarans, Miss Anna Maria and the Downtown Duchess, hold 49 passengers and will have two crew aboard to ensure smooth transport to and from each port.

“We anticipate families parking in downtown Bradenton, hopping on the ferry at the downtown port located just off the riverwalk near Green Bridge and enjoying a beautiful boat ride out to the island,” continued Falcione. “At the same time, visitors staying on the island can enjoy a leisure boat ride to downtown Bradenton to enjoy our amazing restaurants and attractions located on the mainland.

Coast Guard trial will take place over the next four to six weeks, at which time final run times and ports will be determined.

“This is just the start of providing multi-modal transportation to our residents and visitors,” said Falcione. “We look forward to continuing to provide easy, accessible travel opportunities throughout Manatee County.”

To learn more, visit www.bradentongulfislands.com/gulf-islands-ferry or contact Leanne Keeling, Executive Assistant to Elliott Falcione, for the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at (941) 729-9177 Ext. 3944 or Leanne.Keeling@BACVB.com.

The Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau promotes tourism to Bradenton, Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key through domestic and international advertising, public relations and marketing efforts. Located on Florida’s West Coast, the destination is known for its unspoiled beaches, rich history, the easy pace of island life and a downtown energized with arts, culture, discoveries and more. Get ready to immerse yourself into all the sites, smells, flavors and surprises that make the Bradenton Area a one-of-a-kind destination.

Gulf Islands Water Taxi the operator of the Gulf Islands Ferry service, is located in Clearwater, Florida. Their current water ferry service, Clearwater Ferry, runs between Clearwater and Dunedin with stops at Downtown Clearwater, Clearwater Beach Marina and Dunedin Marina. They are family owned and operated and are committed to providing accessible and enjoyable water transportation to all.

Manatee County Beach Mats Provide Increased ADA Accessibility

May 1, 2023

Manatee County Beach Mats Provide Increased ADA Accessibility

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (May 1, 2023) - Manatee County has made Manatee Public Beach, located at 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217, wheelchair accessible through the installation of a 100 foot-long mat. It is the latest initiative by the County in meeting the accessibility requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates equal access to public facilities, services and programs for individuals with disabilities.

ADA mat being installedThe T-shaped mat, which is six-feet wide, will push 100 feet into the approximately 400-foot-wide beach area near the Anna Maria Island Beach Café. At the end of that 100-foot run, a 12-foot “landing area” will allow multiple users to rest and enjoy the surf, sand and sunsets. The beach access mat is made of recycled metals—durable and slip-resistant materials—ensuring safety for all users. In addition to wheelchairs, visitors with strollers, rolling carts and coolers also may take advantage of the smoother surface, which will stay in place year-round (except for removal during severe-storm threats).

“We have been wanting to do this for years,” said Carmine DeMilio, Deputy Director for Parks and Grounds and ADA Coordinator for Manatee County’s Property Management Department. "This is another step to help accommodate the disabled community and provide access to world-class amenities and award-winning beaches."

Manatee County beaches have been recognized with numerous awards for their natural beauty and cleanliness. The addition of the beach access mat will further enhance the openness of these beaches, making them more inclusive and welcoming to all visitors, regardless of their abilities. County leaders encourage everyone to try out the new beach access mat and invites individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Manatee County without any barriers.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @ManateeGov.

New Door and Window Express Permit Fee of $128

April 12, 2023

New Door and Window Express Permit:

Development Services Building Division is excited to offer a Door and Window Express Permit with a permit fee of $128.

This permit option is only for replacement of residential door and/or window, size for size, by a licensed contractor.

The Door and Window Express Permit is not available if any of the following apply:

-Property is in a designated Flood Zone.

-Property is in a designated Historical Overlay.

-Owner performing work.

If any of the above occur the applicant will be required to apply for the regular standard Door and Window Permit for the applicable reviews to occur.

https://permitmanatee.mymanatee.org/

Investment in Palmetto Community

May 24, 2023

Manatee County Continues Investment in Palmetto Community

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (May 23, 2023) – With the opening of the new basketball courts at Lincoln Park, Manatee County is celebrating its multi-million-dollar investment in the Palmetto region.

Aerial view of basketball courts the $1.2 million project to replace the old courts and lighting at 501 17th Street East was completed on budget and on time—with an opening just in time for the Memorial Day Holiday Weekend.

“It’s been amazing watching this park flourish,” said Molly White, Deputy Director of Sports and Leisure Services for Manatee County. But she was quick to point out that the new blue court complex is just a part of the work that has been going on in and around the Lincoln Park complex.

Over the past two years, Manatee County has worked to bring more than $13 million in improvements to the park—from the state-of-the-art Lincoln Aquatic Center, completed in time for the 2022 swim season—to the shade structures, restrooms, bleachers and a new two-story press box at the football field.

“This is a growing and engaged community,” said Manatee County District Two Commissioner Amanda Ballard. “It’s important to be able to provide such amazing amenities to our neighbors.”

Further projects to enhance neighborhood access to the park, as well as safety and security, are also underway and expected to be completed throughout the summer.

For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @ManateeGov.

Buffalo Creek/ Ola Mae Sims Park

May 17, 2023

Parrish dog owners are getting a brand-new location for their pups to explore and enjoy! Only 1 mile down the road, away from the heavy traffic at Buffalo Creek, Ola Mae is the perfect new place for the pups to get their social, exercise and relaxation time. Ola Mae will house a large and small dog park with pavilion coverings, dog agility courses, water hoses and fountains. The former Buffalo Creek location will become a new soccer field to allow more Parrish youth to enjoy their own social and exercise time as well. Ola Mae is set to open after final touches before Memorial Day Weekend. Field renovations will begin after the holiday weekend.

Carmine DeMilio, MPA, CPRP, ADAC, CPGM, CLM

Deputy Director Parks & Grounds

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