Long Bar Pointe Plan Draws Critics

This article was reported and written by Patch Local Editor Merab Favorite.

A group of about 175 residents crowded the confined quarters of Fisherman’s Hall in Cortez on Thursday evening to express their opposition a controversial land development project of Long Bar Pointe, which is set to go before the Manatee County Commission on Aug. 6.

Long Bar Pointe has sat undeveloped for years. The waterfront property overlooks Sarasota Bay and parallels El Conquistador Parkway in Bradenton.

During the meeting, developer Carlos Beruff spoke of his plans for a mixed-use development on 463.2 acres, which he called a “classy resort,” with a marina, basin, residential units, a hotel and commercial space, according to an article in the Bradenton Herald.

However, residents are concerned the project, which would call for the removal of 225 of mangroves and dredging, would ruin the fishing industry in the historic fishing Village of Cortez, the article states.  

According to an article in the Bradenton Times, a group called Save Manatee Coastline trying to persuade the Manatee County Commission to vote no on August 6 on the agenda item because the say it calls for an amendment to Manatee County’s 20-year comprehensive plan that could create an opportunity for developers to building in high hazard areas and allow the removal of mangrove trees or sea grass.

Critics say the removal of mangroves could have a negative impact on the fish estuary off the coast.

An online petition to stop the development has been created and is currently circulating on Facebook. 

What do you think about the project? Post a comment below to voice your opinion.