Rapid transit's Laurel Park bypass approved

The Sarasota City Commission unanimously supported an alternative route for SCAT’s proposed bus rapid transit line.

The initial route had the BRT traveling down Osprey Avenue, but after members of the Laurel Park neighborhood complained that it would bring more noise, pollution and safety risks to their community, SCAT officials proposed a new route, which traveled from Orange Avenue to Mound Street.

The BRT is bus line that would travel from the university area north of Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport to Westfield Southgate Mall.

It promises a quicker trip on that route because there will be fewer stops and at least part of its route will be on a dedicated lane on the railroad corridor from University Parkway to 10th Street.

Mayor Kelly Kirschner praised SCAT for working with the Laurel Park neighborhood.

“I think its fair to say the neighborhoods and businesses were pleased with the way they were engaged in this process,” he said.

Contact Robin Roy at [email protected].