Manatee County Invites Public Input on Revitalizing U.S. 41 Corridor
Manatee County officials are calling on residents to share their ideas and visions for improving the U.S. 41/Tamiami Trail corridor, a major gateway into the county for visitors and locals alike. In collaboration with the Florida Department of Transportation, the county is working to enhance the roadway's appearance and functionality, particularly the stretch between Cortez Road and the Sarasota County line.
The initiative, part of the broader “Vision 41” plan, aims to transform the corridor into a more welcoming and economically vibrant area. Planned upgrades include enhanced landscaping, new medians, pedestrian walkways, and transit-friendly features to improve safety and accessibility.
Some local businesses have already begun making improvements that are aligned with the county’s goals. Ingman Marine, a boat dealership located along the corridor, recently repaved its parking lot, upgraded its landscaping, and rearranged its high-end boats to create a more visually appealing frontage.
County leaders believe such efforts will help shift the public’s perception of U.S. 41, which has long been criticized for its industrial look, vacant lots, and aging infrastructure. Residents have expressed a desire for cleaner, safer streets and improvements that address concerns related to crime and homelessness in the area.
Officials say the project also considers the region's long-term development, especially as the nearby airport continues to grow and attract new jobs. Future plans may include supporting businesses such as restaurants and neighborhood services that meet the needs of both visitors and the local community.
Residents are encouraged to attend an upcoming public meeting to learn more about the project and share their feedback. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 26, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the South Manatee Library on 26th Street in Bradenton. Project designers will be present to answer questions and display visual renderings of the proposed enhancements.