Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/277189
The new interchange could become the crit- ical piece in a transportation improvement puzzle for the growing area of University Parkway and I-75. State officials want Sarasota and Manatee counties to approve formal resolutions sup- porting the unique diverging diamond design before FDOT proceeds with its plans. In Sarasota County, the commissioners could vote on such a resolution as early as one of the board's regular meetings on March 18 or March 19. THE OTHER IMPROVEMENTS The onus is also on the two counties to take the lead on roadway improvements around the interchange, with the help of Schroeder Manatee Ranch Inc., the devel- oper of Lakewood Ranch, and Benderson, developer of the new Mall at University Town Center. Both companies are obligated to pro- vide infrastructure improvements through development agreements as well as impact fee guidelines. The March 6 discussion included a focus on the importance of the proposed Lakewood Ranch Boulevard and Lorraine Road exten- sions in Sarasota County, as well as a planned overpass connection between University Parkway and Fruitville Road, according to a March 6 update sent to the county com- missioners and staff by Sarasota County Administrator Tom Harmer. He attended the Tallahassee meeting along with Commission Chairman Charles Hines. Steube said his understanding is that the preliminary plan calls for Sarasota County The Florida Department of Transportation is proposing a diverging diamond interchange at University Parkway. Image courtesy Sarasota County Sarasota News Leader March 14, 2014 Page 43