Motorworks Brewing to Open Near McKechnie Field

The area's largest full-production craft brewery is set to come to downtown Bradenton.

The Bradenton City Council approved plans Wednesday for Motorworks Brewing, which will include a 4,300 taproom, an outdoor patio and beer garden and a 30-barrel, full-production brewery with bottling and keg lines and refrigerated storage.

Manatee County has agreed to invest $30,000 in the business, according to Sharon Hillstrom, president and chief executive officer of the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corp. The county is investing because the brewery is expected to generate 30 jobs.

The brewery's 4,300-square-foot taproom and beer garden are expected to open late this spring. It will be located between the new downtown Riverwalk and McKechnie Field at 1014 9th St. W.

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Frank Tschida, founder and vice president for operations, said he and his wife are starting a first-class brewery and are bringing in an experienced head brewer.

David Gustafson, executive director of Bradenton's Downtown Development Authority estimates that the brewery will have an economic impact equalling $1.8 million over the next five years, "contributing significantly to the 14th Street" redevelopment area.

The business is slated to add 30 new jobs over the next five years.

“In addition to a full-production brewery eventually distributing product across the United States, we plan to create a tourist destination featuring brewery tours, a taproom for tasting and a beer garden," said Denise Tschida, owner/president.

“Motorworks Brewing is poised to become part of the exciting story of Bradenton’s revitalization,” Hillstrom said. “The EDC was able to bring together all the players who were essential to helping this business locate in Bradenton and invest in our community.”

The Tschidas plan to open the taproom this spring with the brewery operation following by fall of this year.

“Our entire community benefits as downtown Bradenton and other centers of economic activity in the county attract and retain businesses that provide good jobs for local residents,” said Ed Hunzeker, Manatee County administrator.

A list of Manatee County's economic development incentives is available at www.mymanatee.org/econ_dev.