Sarasota Livin'

Sarasota Herald Tribune article on Isaac Holdings plans to create more highend retail centered around the "Ovo" building at 35 S Lemon Ave.

SARASOTA -- Isaac Holding Corp. is finalizing plans to overhaul a core section of downtown Sarasota and convert it into a shopping mecca mixing national retailers with local merchants.
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"We're proposing a major retail, mixed-use project, and one that will be dynamic for downtown," said John L. Simon, 58, a former top executive of The Taubman Cos. who joined Isaac as a partner and the holding corporation's chief executive in January.

"Our plan will add to, and not supplant or replace, the existing retail along Main Street," he added.

A few national high end retailers might be good. But better would be more local businesses. I like this project if the redevelopment fits in. I would guess it will help improve my version of walkability for the area. We will all wait to see what happens.

The article goes on to document some of the more suburban area projects that are competing for the same type high end retailers. Starting with "neighbors" such as the soon to be redone Sarasota Quay and Southgate Mall (both in the City). Others include developments like Lakewood Ranch and Heritage Harbour... I would prefer to shop in downtown!!!