Fruitville Road Development Shelved, Historic Village Saved

Plans to redevelop Sarasota's Historic Downtown Village with an apartment complex are on hold, providing a reprieve for the small businesses operating at 1899 Fruitville Road. The land deal that would have led to the demolition of the historic wood-frame buildings near Burns Square is no longer active, according to the property owners.

Philip DiMaria of Kimley Horn, representing Tennessee-based Bristol Development, confirmed the contract is paused. Alex and Marlene Lancaster, owners of the property located between Gillespie and Goodrich avenues, informed their tenants in an email that "the contract is no longer in effect" and "the property is not being offered for sale." The Lancasters stated their intention to "continue owning and managing the property."

Tess Craig, owner of The Artful Giraffe, expressed relief. "It is such a relief," Craig told WSLR News. She confirmed her business, along with others, holds leases until 2028, securing their presence for the foreseeable future. Siegfried’s Restaurant also acknowledged tenant support on social media, calling the past year a "true rollercoaster ride."

Meanwhile, Wendy Goldberg, owner of The Breakfast House, continues with her plans to relocate her restaurant and other businesses. Goldberg initiated the Sarasota Bungalow Village project after learning her restaurant faced potential displacement. She is seeking a rezoning of land at Griggs Avenue and Fruitville Road for a new site that could house The Breakfast House and potentially Discover Sarasota Tours. City of Sarasota planners will review Goldberg's rezoning request this week. Her daughter, Jazz Wingard, operations manager at The Breakfast House, stated the restaurant expects to remain open until its move in summer or fall 2027.