Perspective: Bradenton’s Action Plan Aims to Energize the City’s Economy and Quality of Life

Having served in Bradenton for decades, I have always recognized the incredible potential of our small city. Over the years, I’ve witnessed exciting changes and investments that have boosted livability for residents and made Bradenton more appealing to businesses. It’s crucial we maintain this momentum by engaging in meaningful discussions and collaborating with city government to shape Bradenton’s future into a vibrant and authentic jewel in a stunning natural landscape.

I’m thrilled to announce that recent conversations, alongside both private and public sector investments over the past five years, have paved the way for the development of a city-wide action plan. Now is the perfect time to scrutinize all areas of the city, pinpoint immediate and long-term opportunities for redevelopment and investment, and strategize on attracting businesses while supporting existing ones and fostering entrepreneurship, particularly in the creative arts sector.

The momentum for this initiative is timely. Under the guidance of Mayor Gene Brown and the City Council, substantial investments have been directed toward public infrastructure and essential services to improve safety, livability, and long-term resilience.

These investments will persist as the city government seeks state and federal funding sources to lessen the financial load on local taxpayers. Examples include the establishment of a new Public Safety Operations Center, a Bradenton Police headquarters, additional fire stations, and comprehensive utility infrastructure enhancements.

Moreover, the City Park project at LECOM Park will leverage the city’s baseball heritage, driving sports tourism, improving downtown connectivity, and revitalizing the community. The project aims to create an entertainment district that injects new energy into the area, benefiting local businesses and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Current private investments are also significant. Two major mixed-use developments—City Centre and surrounding redevelopment along with attainable housing projects—are revitalizing crucial areas of our urban core. The City Centre project is finalizing its master development plan, which encompasses the sale and private redevelopment of the current riverfront City Hall property. This transformative endeavor will build upon the momentum of Bradenton’s picturesque Riverwalk and marina, fostering a unique and world-class waterfront district.

Our team at the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corp. is leading the creation of this action plan in close collaboration with city government. The EDC will oversee a consulting team comprising experienced professionals in community revitalization planning that protects neighborhoods, energizes private investment, and enhances livability. The consulting team, led by Dover, Kohl & Partners, will benefit from economic analysis by Partners for Economic Solutions.

The planning process will entail thorough economic and market analyses. The consulting team will also review the city’s comprehensive plan, land development regulations, and permitting processes. They plan to visit Bradenton to engage with stakeholders and familiarize themselves with the community’s unique character and lifestyle.

At the EDC, we take this project seriously. This is not just lofty ideas; it’s an action plan. We will leverage our community expertise to manage the strategic planning process, keep the consulting team focused, communicate transparently with city government, and engage Bradenton area stakeholders throughout the eight-month duration.

This plan will connect efforts to maximize the benefits of previously made investments and those yet to come. Our objective is to attract businesses to the City of Bradenton, enticing potential and current employees to see it as an appealing place to live, work, and enjoy life.

Our timeline aims for the plan’s completion by early 2026, accompanied by clearly defined action steps and milestones. We’ve hit the ground running with the launch of a new website, BradentonCityFL.com, and a “sizzle” video to share our city’s brand story. We are already in discussions with businesses operating in the city as well as those interested in relocating here.

Please visit and share our website, and watch and share the video. Help us spread the word about our remarkable small city that is brimming with potential.

Key Information

• Current Projects: City-wide action plan, City Park project at LECOM Park, City Centre redevelopment.
• Leadership: Mayor Gene Brown, Bradenton Area Economic Development Corp.
• Completion Timeline: Early 2026.
• Website: BradentonCityFL.com
• Consulting Team: Dover, Kohl & Partners; Partners for Economic Solutions.
• Community Engagement: The EDC will actively involve local stakeholders in the planning process.