The golden shovels of dirt were tossed in March 2015 and construction is scheduled for completion in early 2017. The Fort Hamer Bridge over the Manatee River near Sarasota is quickly becoming a reality. This long-anticipated project is much more than just a two-lane bridge with paved bike lanes and sidewalks-- it’s a direct connection that brings previously secluded Florida neighborhoods within minutes of Lakewood Ranch and I-75:
- An alternate and quicker route to interstate 75 for easy access to the arts, culture and airports of Sarasota, Bradenton and Tampa
- A direct 5-minute route to Lakewood Ranch for every day conveniences, sporting events, farmer’s markets, medical facilities, special events, dining, and shopping
- Peace of mind with improved safety and emergency response times for emergency services
- Easy accessibility to the new Mall at University Town Center (recently featured in the New York Times) and the popular outlet mall in Ellenton
- Safer access for local residents with improvements along Upper Manatee River Road and Fort Hamer Road that include right and left turn lanes at each intersection and widening of the road to 24 feet.
For residents of The Islands, located immediately adjacent to the new Ft. Hamer Bridge along the Manatee River, the new bridge is life changing. This previously secluded paradise is one of the only places in Florida where you can still live in a gated community, on a half-acre+ homesite with a private boat dock in our backyard. Packages are starting from the $900s, with home and homesites on the river starting at $1.2 million. The Ft. Hamer Bridge now opens the door to the surrounding area, eliminating 20 minutes of extra travel time to this pristine paradise.
The Islands is now ideally located within 5 minutes of Lakewood Ranch and a short driving distance to the coastal cities of Sarasota, St. Petersburg and Tampa.
To preview the location of The Islands and learn more, click here.
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