Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/107047
Sarasota News Leader February 1, 2013 Page 42 Yet, some again pointed to the advantages of The new transit system, Reid stressed, should using the U.S. 41 corridor compared to the be "a tool for redevelopment," based on his CSX, U.S. 301 or Old Bradenton Road corri- discussions with federal officials. dors. Whatever corridor is chosen, Paul noted, the With time running out before they were sched- local government that has jurisdiction over it uled to hold an executive session over a legal will have to commit to zoning code and commatter, the questions hung in the air with no prehensive plan to encourage the type of deconsensus. velopment along the BRT line that will make it more attractive to riders. ECONOMIC FACTORS Yet, Patterson pointed out, "It takes a long During his presentation to the County Commission, Paul put considerable focus on the time" to pursue such changes. land-use factor. CORRIDOR CONSIDERATIONS "How are you going to get ridership on your The U.S. 41 corridor is solely within the city corridor?" he asked. of Sarasota, Paul said, which would entail the Paul pointed out that the application the coun- city's making the necessary changes. If the ty had submitted to the FTA for the rail corri- city and the county decided to go with a corridor along U.S. 301, for example, both local dor "was solely [about] people moving." Maps show options for a bus rapid transit system route through Sarasota County. Image courtesy Sarasota County