CLEARWATER, Fla. — Neighbors are protesting plans to build what they call a "tall condo" building along Edgewater Drive in Clearwater.
- Protest drew about 50 people Friday
- Residents worry structure will change "old Florida" feel of neighborhood
- Public hearing on proposal scheduled for Tuesday, May 21 at 1 p.m.
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About 50 people stood on Edgewater Drive Friday night, holding signs to show their opposition.
"The concern about the condo is that it's way too large for our community," said Dean Falk.
The protesters said the building would be seven stories — at least 86 feet tall — with 79 units built directly across from Edgewater Drive Park.
They worry it will block their water views, change the "old Florida" feel of the neighborhood, and add to the already congested traffic in the area.
"It's not going to minimize traffic, it's only going to increase it," said Mary Kate Belniak. "We have concerns about people who need to cross this street, cross Edgewater Drive to come over and enjoy the beautiful park."
The land is zoned for tourism, and the residents said they're not entirely against a condo building going up.
They said they'd be ok with something similar in size to a 3-story hotel next door.
"We just don't want it to stand out like an eyesore," said Falk.
We did try to contact the developer for a comment, but could not reach them after hours.
There will be a public hearing on the proposal before the Community Development Board on Tuesday, May 21 at 1:00 p.m. at the Clearwater Main Library, 100 Osceola Street.