MANATEE COUNTY, FL (July 11, 2025) – The Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is asking for public input and ideas for the future Cortez Boat Ramp. This property is located just north of the Cortez Bridge over the Intracoastal waterway.
“We want to see the input from the community on this project,” said Manatee County District 3 Commissioner Tal Siddique “We are going to make sure your input is accounted for.”
Manatee County Government is starting with a blank slate to design a vibrant public boat‐launch and waterfront destination at The Cortez Boat Ramp and public input is being sought. Every dock plank, parking space, and amenity will reflect the community’s vision, so project managers are opening the doors wide for citizens to contribute their creativity, concerns, and aspirations.
With nine saltwater access boat ramps including 17 launches currently in Manatee County, this location in Cortez will help provide additional access to boaters. Planners have pointed out that this site has the potential to increase the number of boat trailer parking spaces by up to 25% county wide.
Following a series of damaging hurricanes in 2024, the existing structures were deemed unsafe, leading to an adjustment in redevelopment timelines. The events also encouraged community leaders to seek additional input on the future of this important property.
The survey is now accessible here and will run in conjunction with community “Open House” meetings where hands-on design tables, visual preference and additional access surveys will gauge user interest. Those meetings will be held as follows:
July 24, 2025
5-7 p.m.
The Bridge Church
4000 75th St. W.
Bradenton, FL 34209
August 6, 2025
5-7 p.m.
Manatee Central Library
1301 1st Ave. W.
Bradenton, FL 34205
August 11, 2025
5-7 p.m.
Island Library
5701 Marina Dr.
Holmes Beach, FL 34217
August 13, 2025
5-7 p.m.
Rocky Bluff Library
6750 US-301
Ellenton, FL 34222
August 18, 2025
5-7 p.m.
Lakewood Ranch Library
16410 Rangeland Pkwy.
Bradenton, FL 34211
“This is an important project for Cortez,” said Commissioner Siddique. “There is a lot happening there.”