Downtown Sarasota attracts pharmacy

Activity is picking up at the middle of Main Street in downtown Sarasota in more ways than one, as new tenants appear to be transforming the Orange Avenue intersection into a fitness district.

Age Vital Pharmacy has leased the former Southeastern Guide Dogs space at the intersection of Orange Avenue and Main Street. The pharmacy, which has a current location on St. Armands Circle, plans to spend $14,000 to build out the 2,600-square-foot space, according to permits filed with the city.

“It really wasn't that challenging (to lease), it just has a selective owner,” said Sperry Van Ness Senior Investment Advisor Mike Migone, who marketed the property, and also helped Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers lease a property at the other side of Orange Avenue.

“It’s almost becoming this health and fitness intersection,” Migone said.

The move comes a few months after Orange Theory Fitness announced plans to move into the Ellis Building across the street, following $200,000 in renovations. Building owner Benderson Development is spending nearly $1 million on renovations of the first floor, according to building permits.

While investment pours into that 13-story downtown, the city recently opened a new roundabout at the intersection of Orange and Main, which includes new landscaping around the traffic feature.

“I envision that the core of downtown is expanding toward the east, and i anticipate more development between Osprey and 301,” Migone said. “You’re going to see a lot of things happening in that area."