Honore development slowed by possible road extension

Manatee County commissioners have delayed approval of a 200-acre infill project off Honore Avenue in hopes an opportunity might exist to create a new north-south road between Interstate 75 and Lockwood Ridge Road.

During an Oct. 5 land-use hearing, commissioners postponed to Nov. 2 a vote to change the county’s comprehensive plan for the property from public/semi-public to residential with up to six units per acre.

Commissioners are researching the possibility of extending Natalie Way south to connect with Honore Avenue. The city of Bradenton owns the land that would be needed, and a change in the comprehensive plan would likely eliminate any chance of extending Natalie Way.

“I want to get the whole picture,” Commissioner Carol Whitmore said. “Is there a way we can work together to align it?”

Commissioner Vanessa Baugh said the commissioners need to decide whether a Natalie Way extension is important before they vote to change the county’s comprehensive plan affecting that area.

City of Bradenton Administrator Carl Callahan said the city may be willing to sell land to the county and noted it is the decision of the City Council. He said that land may still be needed for security of the reservoir or for options for future water storage.

Last year, the City Council accepted a $10.5 million bid from homebuilder Taylor Morrison for the 200-acre property under consideration by county commissioners.

Callahan said the city originally acquired the land for a potential above-ground reservoir.