Sarasota Condo Development Moves Forward, SRQ Hotel Proposal Rejected

Published on December 1, 2025

Recently, the Development Review Committee (DRC) met to discuss advances on two projects in Sarasota, Florida. One project recently received runway approval, and the other has been put on hold. The 7th and Central Rosemary District Condominiums, located in the centre of the Rosemary District, received approval for its first steps. Containing Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) on its first submission, a proposed hotel project was turned down. The local tourism scene, and the region’s economy, will likely be affected by these decisions.

7th and Central Condominiums: A Boost to Downtown Sarasota’s Appeal

The 7th and Central Condominiums, situated at 650 Central Ave., are set to enhance downtown Sarasota’s appeal as a vibrant tourist destination. With partial approval granted for the project, developers are now poised to proceed with plans for this luxury residential complex in one of the city’s most sought-after neighbourhoods. The project is expected to provide more than 100 new high-end residential units, offering prospective homeowners and investors the opportunity to settle in an area surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

The location of the 7th and Central Condominiums is particularly significant in terms of tourism. The Rosemary District has increasingly become a focal point for visitors who seek a more urban, walkable experience in Sarasota. The development is anticipated to boost the area’s tourism offerings by providing more accommodation options for visitors who prefer a stay in the downtown area, as opposed to staying further out from the city centre.

As the project moves closer to realisation, it is expected that the influx of residents will encourage additional businesses, restaurants, and cultural institutions to open their doors in the district. With Sarasota’s tourism industry continuing to grow, particularly post-pandemic, these types of urban development’s play an essential role in maintaining the city’s reputation as a vibrant and attractive destination for both short-term and long-term visitors.

SRQ Airport Hotel: Setback for Tourism Infrastructure Development

In contrast to the progress made on the 7th and Central Condominiums, the proposed hotel near Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) did not meet the approval requirements on its first attempt. The hotel project, which had included plans for a restaurant and other amenities aimed at catering to both tourists and business travellers, was denied by the committee, signalling a potential setback for expanding Sarasota’s tourism infrastructure, particularly at the airport.

The decision to reject the proposal has raised questions about Sarasota’s long-term strategy for accommodating tourists who fly in and out of SRQ. Currently, the airport is a key gateway for visitors coming to the area, with flights serving major cities across the US. An airport hotel would have made it more convenient for visitors to access accommodations immediately upon arrival, a factor that could have boosted the city’s appeal as a destination for both business and leisure tourism.

Despite this setback, the project’s proponents are likely to revise their plans and reapply for approval. With tourism numbers steadily increasing, particularly in Florida’s west coast cities, the need for additional accommodation near SRQ remains clear. The success of other nearby airports with hotel facilities underscores the importance of having sufficient infrastructure to support tourism, and Sarasota may eventually find ways to overcome the hurdles standing in the way of this project’s success.

Implications for Sarasota’s Tourism Growth

The DRC’s decisions reflect the commitment the city is making to develop infrastructure to support the growing tourism sector in the city. There is a steady increase in population as tourism increases and so will the demand for developments such as the 7th and Central Condominiums. The city’s Sarasota tourist base will continue to expand as more and more residential developments become available to the public. It is the growing tourism in the city that will continue to drive the development of infrastructure.

Planned projects and ongoing investment in cultural attractions will continue to boost tourism in the city. Sarasota is fundamentally modernizing urban infrastructure to develop a walkable city. The aim is to increase Sarasota’s appeal as a tourism and residential destination. The projects that expand housing, improve service levels for the visiting public and modernize urban infrastructure will support tourism in Sarasota which is one of the premier destinations in Florida.

Though the disapproval of the airport hotel proposal presents an initial challenge, the continuing need for responsive adaptations for the benefit of both tourists and the tourism industry will see sustained efforts and initiatives. With continued growth and development activities planned for the next months, Sarasota’s standing as one of the foremost tourism spots in the state of Florida will remain, continuing to provide new opportunities for both short-term visitors and long-term residents.