Benderson Park Continues Transformation

As Nathan Benderson Park readies to become a world-class venue, officials are also working to make it fit for people at home.

Construction on the west side of the park — and its five “pocket parks” — is ongoing.

The original plan for this now-closed portion of the park, dubbed phase two of the overall project, calls for separate ornamental, water and butterfly gardens, a playground and a fitness center.

Carolyn Brown, director of Sarasota’s Parks and Recreation department, says the west side of the park will be ready for public use in the spring.

Other amenities, such as running paths around the lake, picnic areas and a “bird island” observational area, should be ready at that time, as well.

“Nathan Benderson Park will be an amazing, world-class place,” Brown said. “It’s an evolving, ever-changing plan that will continue to morph to meet the needs of these competitions. But, we want to make the park attractive for all types of recreational activities, as well.”

Read more at East County Observer (December 11, 2013)