Sarasota approves Villages project

The Sarasota County Commission unanimously approved changes Wednesday that will allow Lakewood Ranch developer Schroeder-Manatee Ranch to move forward with its Villages of Lakewood Ranch South project.

The project, slated for 5,500 acres south of University Parkway and east of Interstate 75, will include 5,100 residential units, 300,000 square feet of commercial space and a new elementary school, among other features, once completed.

SMR has pledged $7.5 million toward roadway improvements — either the extension of Iona Road from Palmer Boulevard to Fruitville Road or an overpass across I-75 from Lakewood Ranch Boulevard to Cattlemen Road - as part of the approval process.

For a complete story, see the May 30 issue of the East County Observer.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].