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Residents and commissioners spar over SPAC site at Centennial Park; public warns against using boat ramp
Summary
Public commenters and commissioners argued over the proposed Sarasota Performing Arts Center’s placement north of the 10th Street Canal, with many residents and boaters saying Centennial Park’s boat ramp and small‑boat access should not be repurposed for loading ramps and parking decks.
Dozens of residents and stakeholders spoke at the March 3 City Commission meeting about the Sarasota Performing Arts Center (SPAC) proposal and especially the foundation’s plan to place the large theater north of the Tenth Street Canal at Centennial Park.
Several residents argued the site is incompatible with continued boat ramp operations and public boating access. Speakers said Centennial Park is the only deep‑water mainland ramp between Bradenton and Venice and that boat traffic, 40‑foot‑trailer vehicle parking, and the show‑time truck deliveries (semi trailers for stage equipment) would conflict with boat launch activity. Multiple public speakers urged the commission to put the main theater south of the canal — in the Bay Park — where a larger footprint, more direct parking and access are available.
Why it matters: Speakers warned a waterfront theater in the boat‑launch area would require truck ramps, large parking platforms and possibly tree removal, with significant changes to the park’s use and character. Several presenters said construction and long‑term traffic impacts would harm small businesses in the Rosemary District and Bayfront access for boaters.
Public comments and concerns: Christine Sable urged commissioners to “pause and reconsider” a $400 million theater and recommended a smaller facility or improving the Van Weisel instead. Cillian (Killian) Hunt and Tim Witz — both contractors/experts — warned the Centennial Park site is logistically constrained and that construction in a coastal zone requires costly logistics and regulatory approvals. Robert Firth, a City Island resident, highlighted the commercial boat‑ramp value and said a truck ramp over the boat lot would destroy the only mainland deep‑water facility in the area.
Commission reactions: Commissioners asked staff and proponents about project logistics and parking strategies. Several commissioners and members of the public pushed for more study and community engagement on site selection; others argued for parallel studies to avoid timeline delays. The commission did not make a decision on SPAC location at the March 3 meeting.
Next steps: The conversation is expected to continue in upcoming meetings and public workshops. The foundation and city staff continue to study traffic, parking and environmental constraints for the proposed sites.
