Local contractor chosen for State Street garage

Sarasota city officials have chosen an engineering/construction firm for the State Street parking garage project slated for a 2015 completion.

Over the next few weeks, city officials and Bradenton-based A.D Morgan will negotiate a contract for the $7.29-million project.

A.D. Morgan was tapped last month out of a list of eight firms vying to build the project.

In addition to providing parking one block from mid-Main Street, the project could also add retail space or residential units. Other possible options discussed include: a top-deck pavilion roof with solar panels and a public park, and an open air-type farmers market on the first floor of the structure.

Once a contract is signed, A.D. Morgan planners will hold several public workshops to elicit input and began drafting plans for the garage.

“All ideas will be looked at and vetted,” said City Planner Steve Stancel.

The city has set aside $7.29 million in tax-increment financing for the project.