Longboat Key residents urge county leadership on traffic solutions and community center plans

The recent BCC Joint Meeting with the Town of Longboat Key, held on May 8, 2025, focused on pressing traffic issues and community development in Manatee County. Key discussions highlighted the growing traffic congestion affecting both northbound and southbound routes, particularly around Cortez Road and Coquina Beach.

Participants expressed concern over the increasing traffic backups, which often extend to 86th Street during peak hours. Local leaders called for the county to take a proactive role in addressing these issues, suggesting collaboration with various stakeholders, including Bradenton Beach and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). A proposed immediate solution is to reduce the number of egress points at the Coquina Beach parking lot to one, which could help alleviate congestion. Other suggestions included reconfiguring parking layouts and improving signage to guide drivers more effectively.

Maureen Merrigan, a Longboat Key resident and former commissioner, emphasized the need for better pedestrian connectivity between Longboat Key and Bradenton Beach, noting the absence of sidewalks. She also highlighted the importance of addressing traffic concerns for workers commuting from Bradenton, who contribute to the congestion during peak hours.

The meeting also touched on the community's desire for a new community center at Whitney Plaza, which had previously been a point of contention. Residents expressed disappointment when plans for the center were shelved, but recent discussions have reignited hope for its development. The community is eager for a facility that would serve their needs both now and in the future.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgency of addressing traffic challenges while fostering community development, with local leaders advocating for immediate action and long-term planning to enhance the quality of life for residents in Manatee County.