SCAT station wins state architecture award

The Cattleman Road transfer station for Sarasota County Area Transit placed as a finalist in the Florida Foundation for Architecture’s 2014 People’s Choice Award.

The award is facilitated by the Florida Association of the American Institute of Architects (AIA Florida). This was the first year for the contest, said Candice Munz, manager of communications and public relations for AIA Florida.

Public buildings from around the state, built in the last 5 years, were submitted by AIA Florida agencies, and the public was invited to vote on the structures for four weeks. Eight hundred thousand votes came in from the U.S. and 10 other countries, Munz said.

The SCAT station placed in the top 25 out of 67 entries.

Munz said the station stands out because it’s unique and built to accommodate transit needs. Although the building may serve a common purpose, it makes an impact on those using it.

“Architecture is woven into the fabric of everyone’s every day lives,” she said.

The $2.2 million station was built in January 2012 with state and federal grants. It was designed by Architects Design Group.

The county’s goal is to promote brand identity and ridership through functional design, expression of structure, use of color, readily available durable materials and inspiring open-air space for shelter from the harsh Florida climate, said AIA Florida’s website on the SCAT station.

The station is one of four transfer stations in the county and accommodates both SCAT’s regular 29- and 35-foot buses as well as its 40-foot Express buses. It also has space for intercity commuter service.

The county is hosting an open house today in recognition of the award.

IF YOU GO

What: Cattleman SCAT transfer station open house
When: 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23.
Where: 5951 Porter Way, Sarasota.