Expansion of Buchan’s Bayside in Englewood OK’d despite community divide
ENGLEWOOD, Fla. (WWSB) - A controversial waterfront redevelopment project in Englewood is moving forward after the Sarasota County Commission unanimously approved the second phase of the Buchan’s Bayside project on Wednesday.
The vote clears the way for an expanded version of the mixed-use development, which supporters say will bring new business and visitors to Dearborn Street, while opponents continue to raise concerns about traffic, parking and preserving the area’s historic character.
The issue drew passionate public comment during Wednesday’s commission meeting, with residents speaking both for and against the proposal before commissioners voted unanimously to approve it.
The county first approved the initial phase of Buchan’s Bayside in 2024. With the latest approval, the project will expand from about 2.8 acres to nearly 3.8 acres.
Plans now include increasing the number of residential villas from 12 to 20, while keeping the previously approved 10,000-square-foot waterfront rest…