Notices

Cold Weather Shelters to Open Monday and Tuesday in Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (Feb. 20, 2026)—With frigid temperatures in the forecast, Manatee County, in partnership with community organizations, will open cold weather shelters on Monday, February 23, and Tuesday, February 24.

The Salvation Army will open a cold weather shelter at its Manatee County location, 1204 14th St. W., Bradenton, with check-in beginning at 6 p.m. each night the shelters are open.

In addition, Under One Roof, located at 407 57th Ave. E., Bradenton, will open early to provide shelter for women in need during the cold weather. The women-only facility will open its doors at 2:45 p.m., earlier than its normal 3 p.m. check-in time.

Transportation to both locations will be available through Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) at 2:30 p.m. from Turning Points, located at 701 17th Ave. W., Bradenton.

Turning Points will also be open to provide warmth and coffee during the cold weather.

Residents are encouraged to help spread the word to anyone who may need a warm, safe place during the cold temperatures.

For more information on cold weather safety and shelter updates, visit mymanatee.org/cold.

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 to Revitalize Park at Martha B. King Middle School Through Strong County–School District Partnership

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (Feb. 12, 2026)—Manatee County will soon begin work to revitalize an existing park at Martha B. King Middle School. The project reflects a continued partnership between Manatee County and the School District of Manatee County focused on enhancing recreational opportunities for students, families, and the surrounding neighborhood.

The proposed site plan includes a series of improvements designed to enhance accessibility, safety, and functionality while building on existing amenities. Planned upgrades include the addition of four new pickleball courts, improvements to existing tennis courts, a children’s playground, and a pavilion. The project also includes a reconfigured parking area with 23 standard and 2 ADA-accessible spaces, and re-sealed asphalt throughout the site.

To improve walkability and connectivity, the plan features a 6-foot-wide concrete sidewalk, enhanced fencing and screening, and defined entry points along 9th Avenue Northwest and 75th Street Northwest. Existing amenities such as restrooms, open field space with added irrigation, and enhanced stormwater retention areas will be preserved and incorporated into the overall design.

Landscaping enhancements are also planned, featuring native and Florida-friendly vegetation providing shade, visual interest, and environmental benefits.

“This project is about more than improving a park—it’s about strengthening a partnership that benefits the entire community,” said Tal Siddique, Manatee County District 3 Commissioner. “By working closely with the School District, we’re able to invest in a space that supports students during the school day and provides a welcoming recreational asset for families and neighbors after hours.”

The revitalized park will continue to function as a shared-use facility, maximizing public investment while supporting active lifestyles, youth recreation, and neighborhood connectivity.

“Our schools are deeply connected to the neighborhoods they serve, and this partnership exemplifies that connection,” said the School District of Manatee County Superintendent Dr. Laurie Breslin. “By partnering with Manatee County Government, we are investing in a facility that supports learning, recreation, and community engagement, ensuring this space serves students and residents well into the future.”

Manatee County staff will continue coordinating with School District leadership as the project advances toward construction. Additional updates, including timing and next steps, will be shared as they become available.

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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Manatee County Information Outreach

NEWS line: (941) 745-6397 (NEWS)

news@mymanatee.org