City of Sarasota cuts the ribbon on Overtown Square park

Despite the high speed at which it is growing, the Rosemary District had been without a neighborhood park, although a "civic square" was envisioned in the city's master plan. 

However, the neighborhood's community came together to create the space, as speakers attested during the ribbon cutting for Overtown Square on Oct. 2.

Photo by Ian Swaby

The pocket park was opened through the efforts community members and business owners who contributed to the costs and petitioned for the city to acquire the land.

However, it pays homage to the city's past as well, being named after Overtown, Sarasota's original African American community, which once occupied the area.

Mydahlia Glover of the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition said she was glad to see that community being honored through the park's name.

"I feel that it will bring more people here to come together, of all races, all colors, all creeds, to enjoy the space, and knowing the history of a place really helps you understand where you want to go," she said.

Photo by Ian Swaby

Jerry Fogle, director of parks and recreation for the City of Sarasota, praised the efforts of numerous community members, highlighting the work of two individuals, resident David Lough and DreamLarge CEO Anand Pallegar.

Mayor Liz Alpert, speaking at the event, also complimented the community effort.

"It really was a grassroots effort to make this happen, and the people of this community donated money, donated their time, and worked with the city, so it's truly a public private partnership to help bring this park about," said Mayor Liz Alpert.