Future of Fruitville Rd. - Meeting March 1st    With several developments underway which are expected to draw many more residents and visitors to our special city, we're continuing to study alternative ways to make the downtown core more pedestrian-friendly without diminishing vehicular traffic flow.

Plans already are in the works for a series of roundabouts and streetscape enhancements on U.S. 41 to calm traffic for pedestrians while increasing continuous traffic movement.

Now, staff is studying alternatives to improve another gateway into

Eastbound Fruitville Rd.

the city limits:  Fruitville Road between U.S. 301 and U.S. 41.

In November, staff began talking with stakeholders and interested parties about the current condition of Fruitville.  Right now, the road is considered to be a suburban thoroughfare and options are being reviewed to adjust it into an urban boulevard.

As with U.S. 41, the goal is to create a more inviting environment for pedestrians, so those who wish to cross Fruitville to connect from downtown to the nearby neighborhoods of Gillespie Park and Rosemary District will feel safe.

A wide range of alternatives are under consideration including modifying travel lane width, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, landscaping, and possible roundabouts at Cocoanut Ave., Central Ave. and Lemon Ave.  No decisions have been made.  We continue to gather data and seek public input.

The next community meeting about the proposed Fruitville Rd. Streetscape Enhancement project will be held Tues., March 1 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.  We encourage your participation.

For detailed information about the proposed project click here.

Lose Big, Win Bigger - Starts Feb. 29     Reminder:  The 3rd annual Lose Big, Win Bigger fitness challenge at Robert L. Taylor Community Complex starts next Monday, February 29. 

If it's crossed your mind that you'd like to look and feel more fit, then consider registering for the challenge!   For 8-weeks, you'll be challenged to modify your lifestyle -- exercise more and make healthier food choices.  The winner is determined by the highest percentage of body weight lost.

There is a $25 registration fee, which includes a 3-month all access pass to RLTCC, fitness classes, and prizes.  And, of course, the staff at RLTCC will be there along the way to support and encourage you.

To learn more click here or call RLTCC at:  941-954-4182.

Bobby Jones Golf Club - Demo Day    If you or a golfer you know is in the market for new clubs, we invite you to our historic municipal golf course for Demo Day on March 2.  

Representatives from Wilson and Callaway Golf will be at the complex offering golfers the opportunity to test the latest drivers, irons, fairways and hybrids, with a few swings.

Demo Day runs from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on March 2.  For more information click here.

Stop by Bobby Jones, 1000 Circus Blvd. -- you may just find the new clubs you've been looking for to improve your game -- at a special price just for Demo Day.

Outstanding Community Leader - Brunie Neira    Congratulations to Brunie Neira at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex for being honored by the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County as an outstanding community leader.

In 2013, Brunie assisted with the development of a teen program called HARD: NOC

Brunie Neira was honored by the Dept. of Health as an outstanding community leader.

(Honorable Alliance for Reclaiming Destiny:  North Sarasota Original Chapter). Launched as a pilot program to introduce young teens to different opportunities, HARD:NOC became a permanent program at RLTCC (with many community partners) thanks to Brunie's vision, enthusiasm and dedication. 

Standouts like Brunie help make Sarasota special, and we're proud she was recognized by the Leadership Development Council with the Health Department.  Congratulations, Brunie!