Bradenton City Council declares that development agreement will ‘revolutionize’ downtown area.

The proposed project along the Manatee River includes a 20-story condominium building, a hotel, various shops and restaurants, and a public green space. Following years of discussions, the Bradenton City Council has approved a development agreement to sell the city’s City Hall and police headquarters.

Councilwoman Marianne Barnebey, a lifelong resident of Bradenton and part of the voting majority, expressed her thoughts on the decision. “It will change our downtown,” she remarked. “And change is scary. But you’ve heard me say it before, the only thing that likes change is a wet baby. However, I think it’s going to help our city in ways that we can’t even see yet.”

The contemplation of selling government operations began in 2022, which followed an appraisal valuing the land at approximately $10 million. Another council member, Jayne Kocher, also supported the proposal, emphasizing that “this project is going to help us create a place where people can live and work and play, and hopefully it’ll be sustainable for our families’ quality of life and help their financial future as well.”

Although the sale’s closing isn’t anticipated until 2026, Bradenton officials are committed to finding methods to mitigate the impact that future construction will have on residents during the interim period.

Key Information

• Proposed Development: 20-story condo building, hotel, retail, and public green space.
• Location: Along the Manatee River, current site of City Hall and police headquarters.
• City Council Approval: Agreement approved after years of discussions.
• Supportive Council Members: Marianne Barnebey and Jayne Kocher.
• Estimated Land Value: Approximately $10 million.
• Closing Date: Expected by 2026.
• Impact Mitigation: Plans to reduce construction impact on residents will be developed.