Manatee County residents could soon have a new public boat ramp to launch into Sarasota Bay from right next to the Cortez Bridge.
Manatee County commissioners agreed to purchase the of the Seafood Shack and Marina property located 4110 127th Street West and other parcels associated with it.
Officials say the purchase does not mean any of the businesses operating on the property will have to close. The county intends to build a two to three lane public boat ramp, between 58 and 65 trailer parking spots, between 93 and 134 car parking spots, and between 85 and 100 wet slips.
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The county attained an appraisal from Colliers valuing the property at $12.5 million in May, and negotiated a verbal agreement in June to purchase the property for $13 million. This week’s vote authorizes county staff to move forward with the contract for the purchase. The county expects to close on the purchase in October.