Former Hilton prepares for renovations

 On Aug. 1, Ocean Properties came one step closer to redeveloping the former Longboat Key Hilton Beachfront Resort, when the property received its demolition permit from the Planning, Zoning and Building Department.

The former Hilton closed it doors July 7, in preparation for the site's renovation and expansion.

Sandra Rios, director of communications at the Resort at Longboat Key Club, which is also owned by Ocean Properties, told the Longboat Observer in July that project would take 14 to 16 months to complete.

The site-plan application submitted calls for redeveloping existing Hilton buildings and the 102 rooms that currently sit on the site, while also acquiring those 85 additional units that would be used for a new tower on the property.

Contact Caleb Motsinger at [email protected].