THE BAY PARK CONSERVANCY

SARASOTA, FLORIDA

OVERVIEW

  • 53 Waterfront Acres

  • Public Green Space, Recreation, Boat Launch Dining Options

TOTAL DEVELOPMENT COST

  • $225MM

PARTNERS

  • Bay Park Conservancy

  • City of Sarasota

  • Gulf Coast Community Foundation

PROJECT AT A GLANCE

The Bay Park is a transformative, four-phase redevelopment of 53 acres of Sarasota’s bayfront into a signature public destination that blends environmental restoration with civic life. Located along Sarasota Bay, the site was largely composed of underused parking lots and municipal land before being reimagined into a world-class urban park.

Led by The Bay Park Conservancy, the initiative preserves open space, restores coastal ecosystems, and introduces a range of public amenities including indoor and outdoor event venues, a boat launch and dry docks, three waterfront restaurants, an outdoor food hall, and over 1,000 structured parking spaces. The park is anchored by its signature sunset boardwalk and a performing arts lawn, which host hundreds of free programs and events annually.

The $225 million project is being delivered in four phases, with funding from a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district, local and federal grants, and private philanthropic contributions. Once complete, The Bay Park will provide year-round access to the water, generate lasting economic and environmental impact, and serve as a central gathering place for the Sarasota community.