The town of Longboat Key says they are missing out on some major tourism opportunities.
That’s why, after years of discussion, plans are in the works to build a town center.
A lot of work is already underway in the beachfront town. Construction crews are building two upscale condo projects facing the ocean on Gulf of Mexico Drive, and right down the street, the former Hilton Hotel is getting a makeover and expansion with 185 rooms.
Town officials hope that once completed, the two projects will bring thousands of people to Longboat Key.
“People come in, they stay some for a week or two, and usually their second night they're like, 'Where can we go to eat? Is there a store around here?' ” town manager Dave Bullock said.
Bullock says right now visitors are leaving the island for their fun.
“Most people leave the key to go to cultural events, or entertainment, or art shows, or lectures," he said.
Bullock says Longboat Key has too much potential to let this happen anymore. That’s why in 2014 the town purchased a 2.8-acre lot near Town Hall to build a town center.
“I can envision a cultural center here, maybe a coffee shop, or some other specialty shop where people will want to go after they have seen a movie or an art show," Bullock said.
While the town center is still in the planning phase, some residents like Tom O’Donnell are already excited.
“We need more activity and more things going on here and this community center will make a great contribution to that," he said.
The town is hoping to break ground in the town center in 2016.
Bayfront Park will also receive a makeover this year. The town is planning on adding a kayak and canoe dock, dog park and walking trails.