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- ππ¦ Traffic + Parking Changes & Valentine's Plans
ππ¦ Traffic + Parking Changes & Valentine's Plans
Best Things To Do in SRQ: 2/12 - 2/16
In todayβs edition of the Sarasota Scoop:
Thanks for reading,
Carson

π° Local News
Town OKs Traffic-Calming Pilot
Driving the news: Town commissioners just approved a pilot plan to slow down traffic and boost safety near downtown.
Why it matters:
Residents say cut-through drivers are speeding in neighborhoods and putting pedestrians at risk.
The town will install speed humps, radar signs, and enhanced crosswalks to calm traffic without causing gridlock.
Between the lines:
Commissioners point to rising complaints and recent police data highlighting more traffic violations.
This six-month test will gauge whether the measures reduce speeding and collisions.
Whatβs next:
Crews will begin installations soon, with occasional lane closures and detours.
Officials will review the results later this year to decide if a broader rollout is needed.
Parking Overhaul: Airport Adds More Spots
Whatβs new:
The local airport is expanding parking to handle a steady rise in passenger traffic.
Plans include more surface lots, digital payment options, and a new garage.
Why it matters:
Recent surges in travel have left lots packed, prompting complaints from locals and visitors.
Officials hope the extra capacity cuts congestion, shortens wait times, and eases stress for travelers.
Between the lines:
Construction begins this spring, with partial closures expected.
A revamped payment system will let drivers pay via mobile app to speed up exits.
Whatβs next:
Completion is set for early next year.
Airport leaders will monitor usage to decide if further expansions are needed.

π¦ Spotlight: Valentineβs Night Out
Looking for the perfect spot for a memorable night out? Whether you're planning a special Valentine's Day dinner or just craving an exceptional meal, these Sarasota restaurants offer incredible flavors and atmosphere.
Here are three top picks for a dining experience worth savoring.
1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails
π 1592 Main Street, Sarasota
Located in downtown Sarasota, 1592 offers modern cuisine infused with fresh market produce, creating intuitive dishes with eclectic combinations of flavors.
Kore Steakhouse
π 1561 Lakefront Drive, Suite 111, Sarasota
Experience a unique tabletop grilling adventure at this Korean steakhouse, known for its beautifully designed interior and welcoming atmosphere.

Ophelia's on the Bay
π 9105 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota
A premier fine dining waterfront restaurant offering stunning views of Little Sarasota Bay, with a menu that changes nightly to feature fresh, seasonal ingredients.

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Thursday, February 13th
Open Play at The Roots
πThe Roots Health Center, Bradenton
π¦ 9:30am - 10:30am
π details
Jazz Thursdays
πSarasota Art Museum
π¦ 4:30pm
π details
Wine & Chocolate Walk 2025
πDowntown Venice
π¦ 5pm - 8pm
π details
Wellen Park Night Market
πWellen Park, Venice
π¦ 6pm - 9pm
π details
Friday, February 14th
Strides 360
π Green at UTC
π¦ 9am
π details
Toddler Classes and Play
π Theory of Play, Sarasota
π¦ 9:30am - 10:45am
π details
Comedy Show: Lynne Koplitz
π McCurdy's Comedy Theatre
π¦ Multiple Showings
π details
Thunder by the Bay Festival
πSarasota Fairgrounds
π¦ See Details
Saturday, February 15th
Sarasota Farmers Market
πDowntown Sarasota, Main St & Lemon Avenue
π¦ 7am - 1pm
π details
Sarasota Fire Dept Station 3 Open House
π 840 Apex Road, Sarasota
π¦ 9am - 1pm
π details

Main Street Market
πLakewood Ranch Main Street
π¦ 10am - 2pm
π details
Tampa Bay Rays Fan Fest
π 600 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg
π¦ 1pm - 5pm
π details
Circus Sarasota
π Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota
π¦ 2pm
π details
Pittsburgh Pirates Block Party
π Old Main St, Bradenton
π¦ 6pm - 9pm
π details

Beer For My Horses: Toby Keith Tribute Show
π CoolToday Park, Venice
π¦ 7pm
π details
Sunday, February 16th
Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market
π 5161 Lakefront Dr, Lakewood Ranch
π¦ 9am - 2pm
π details
Sunday Polo
π Sarasota Polo Club, Sarasota
π¦ See details
π details
Fine Arts Show and Sale
π Venice Art Center
π¦ 9am - 4pm
π details
Suncoast Model Train Show
π Bradenton Area Convention Center
π¦ 10am - 4pm
π details

Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival
π Cortez Cultural Center
π¦ 10am - 4pm
π details
PLAN AHEAD
Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
π Ringling Museum, Sarasota
π¦ Feb. 28 - March 2nd
π details

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