Airport roadway named for former SRQ president and CEO

Airport Circle at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport has a new, yet familiar, name.

The Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority (SMAA) has officially renamed the loop around the airport parking lot that also serves the passenger terminal to Rick Piccolo Circle, honoring Fredrick (Rick) Piccolo for his three decades of service as president and CEO of the airport.

During his three decades at the helm, the airport experienced significant growth in passenger traffic, major capital improvements and national recognition for operational excellence. Over his tenure he also served in leadership roles in state, national and international aviation associations as well as local business and charitable organizations. 

Piccolo retired in October 2025.

“I am humbled to receive this wonderful honor and grateful for the tremendous support I have enjoyed from my family, the board, employees and the SRQ community,” Piccolo said in a news release. “Having my name on this street is an incredibly moving and touching way to end my career.” 

The updated street signage has been installed and the new Rick Piccolo Circle designation is now active on mapping services for airport access, wayfinding and traveler navigation.

“Rick’s decades of leadership helped guide SRQ through tremendous growth and transformation, and naming this roadway in his honor reflects our gratitude,” said new SRQ President and CEO Paul Hoback in the news release. “We appreciate his long commitment to the airport and the region, and we look forward to continuing to build on the strong foundation he helped establish.”