Hart's Landing has become an embarrassment to the city of Sarasota.
Despite repeated promises that restoration of this important waterfront property would move forward, there still appears to be no clear timetable for when the project will actually restart.
Based on recent discussions with city officials, the best-case scenario appears to be months away.
In the meantime, Harts Landing remains neglected, overgrown and increasingly unattractive.
The condition of the property is not only an eyesore but also raises legitimate safety concerns.
This is a prominent waterfront location in downtown Sarasota.
It should be an asset for residents and visitors, not a fenced-off, deteriorating property that appears to have been forgotten.
The city needs to do more
than simply maintain the site while waiting for the restoration project to move forward.
Sarasota residents deserve:
- A firm, publicly communicated timetable for the project.
- Regular updates on its progress.
- Accountability when deadlines are missed.
I recently contacted city officials about the continuing delays, and I have encouraged residents to express their concerns through the public survey on the Coalition of City Neighborhood Associations (CCNA) platform.
I intend to continue to do so, providing weekly updates on the responses.
Harts Landing has been waiting long enough.
It is time for the city of Sarasota to provide a clear plan, a realistic timetable and meaningful action to restore this important public waterfront property.
Mark Spiegel, Sarasota
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This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota let this waterfront gem become an embarrassment | Letters
