Tag: Cortez

Cortez Boat Ramp Development: A Community in Transition

BRADENTON, Fla. — Manatee County officials are paving the way for exciting new developments and want to engage the community in discussions about the future of the Cortez boat ramp. This initiative aims to enhance the area's boating facilities while respecting the rich legacy of the historic Cortez fishing village.

Key Information

• Future Plans: The county is moving forward with the construction of a marina on the site where the Seafood Shack once stood, conveniently located just north of the Cortez Bridge.

• First Community Meeting: An open house is scheduled for July 24 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at The Bridge Church in Bradenton, where residents can learn more and voice their opinions.

• Public Input Opportunity: Residents are encouraged to participate in a public input survey available here, allowing them to express their preferences regarding amenities and activities for the upcoming facility.

County officials anticipate that the new marina will significantly increase the availability of boat trailer parking by up to 25%, which could be a boon for local fishermen and recreational boating enthusiasts. "This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to improve our boating infrastructure while ensuring that we consider the needs and wishes of our residents," said a county representative.

Community Voices

Notably, local charter captain Kathe Fannon brings a wealth of experience and a personal connection to Cortez. With over 20 years at the helm of Captain Kathe and First Mate Pup-Pup Charters, her family has deep roots in the area. "In Cortez — my grandfather, my dad, me, and my daughter, and now I have my granddaughter," she explained, illustrating the generational ties many families have to this coastal community.

Fannon is acutely aware of the changes that have swept through Cortez, including the recent demolition of iconic establishments like Annie’s Bait & Tackle and the Seafood Shack. "I don’t know why they tore that down," she lamented. "That is a piece of Old Florida."

Despite her concerns, Fannon acknowledges the potential benefits of a new boat ramp. "Yeah, absolutely," she said, affirming her belief that it would be a valuable resource for locals. However, she admits to feeling cautious about how the transformation might impact the character of Cortez: "It’s just going to change the entire outlook, you know, of Cortez."

Her commitment to preserving the essence of the fishing village drives her to participate actively in the public input process. "They want you to pick what facilities and what activities you would like to see apply to this boat ramp — public events, food trucks, parking," she noted. It's evident that community feedback is vital to leaders as they prepare to move into the design phase based on the residents’ preferences.

The Path Forward

Once the county gathers sufficient input from the community, they plan to tackle the design process for the marina, which could begin as early as next year. Construction could commence within two to three years, a timeline that has both Fannon and other residents on high alert.

"This is very interesting," she remarked, anticipating the varied reactions from community members. The hope remains that the integration of modern amenities can coexist with the historical and cultural identities that define Cortez.

For Fannon, maintaining the “Old Florida” charm is paramount. "It’s a part of my life," she shared poignantly. "It’s so attached to my heart." As the community stands at a crossroads, there is a collective yearning to embrace growth while safeguarding the historical significance of Cortez.

The first open house hearing will be an opportunity for residents to voice their concerns, share ideas, and find out more about the plans. The public input form concerning the proposed marina is also available for those unable to attend the meeting. Community involvement is crucial in shaping not just a new recreational space but the very future of Cortez itself.