Mote Aquarium Closes City Island Doors, Looks Ahead to Big Move

It’s the end of an era for City Island as Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium closed to the public on July 6. Locals turned out in big numbers for one last visit, and for those who grew up here, a chance to remember field trips and favorite marine creatures. While you won’t be able to stroll the old galleries anymore, Mote’s research work is still going strong behind the scenes as they get ready for an exciting new chapter.

That new chapter? The much-anticipated Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) at Nathan Benderson Park. This brand-new facility promises bigger habitats, hands-on exhibits, and lots more room for learning and exploring. Education programs will still be offered at City Island as well as at the new location. For now, staff are busy making sure everything is perfect for their aquatic residents before the big move. Stay tuned—the region’s favorite aquarium experience will be back soon.

Bradenton Police Headquarters Progress Continues

This summer, work continued steadily at Bradenton’s new police headquarters downtown. Construction on 2nd Street West remained a fixture through June, July, and August, with surrounding street closures and detours challenging drivers. Despite the inconvenience, city officials emphasized that the modern facility will deliver much-needed space and updated technology for law enforcement.

The new headquarters should improve response times and public safety services in the growing downtown area. City planners have reassured residents that, while the building won’t open until the end of 2026, the long-term benefits will be worth the temporary disruptions.

Roadwork and Infrastructure Improvements

Bradenton saw major road projects this summer, including the Florida Department of Transportation’s I‑75/US 301 interchange work. While construction caused lane closures and slowdowns, it aims to reduce congestion in Manatee County. The city also had short-term closures in June and July for sewer and utility upgrades—part of ongoing efforts to modernize infrastructure for a growing population. Officials view these as investments in safety and reliability.

Village of the Arts Welcomes New Energy

Bradenton’s Village of the Arts district maintained its creative energy this summer despite the heat. Monthly art walks and open studio nights continued to draw visitors in June, July, and August, offering a vibrant way to meet local artists and support small businesses. The district’s lively atmosphere attracted locals seeking a unique place to shop.

Over the summer, a few new studios and galleries opened their doors, adding fresh faces and talent to the neighborhood. Meanwhile, longtime artists continued to welcome visitors with demonstrations, workshops, and live music.

Island Beach Renourishment and Parking Lot Repairs Complete

Earlier this summer, Anna Maria Island completed a beach renourishment project designed to protect the island’s shoreline. Work wrapped up in June, with crews adding fresh sand and restoring dunes battered by storms and erosion. Local officials highlighted the effort’s importance for both protecting beachfront properties and maintaining the island’s tourism appeal.

The parking lots at Coquina Beach, Cortez Beach, and Bayfront have been repaired after hurricane damage. The restored lots now offer ADA-compliant parking and improved striping on both sides. The Captain Morgan Scott ramp lot has also been updated.

The projects came just in time to be prepared for the next hurricane season, offering greater resilience against storm surge and high tides. Visitors this summer enjoyed the refreshed beaches, which remained a popular destination for summer travel.

Downtown Business Openings and Closings

Bradenton’s downtown district saw a dynamic summer with a mix of business openings and closings that reshaped Main Street’s landscape. While a few beloved local shops and restaurants closed their doors due to staffing challenges or lease changes, other entrepreneurs seized the opportunity to open new spots.

Grand openings in June and July drew locals eager to support small business owners, with new cafes, boutiques, and service providers adding fresh options to the downtown mix. City officials commended the resilience shown by the local business community, observing that, despite the customary slowdown during the summer months, there remains strong enthusiasm for reinvestment in the core of Bradenton.

Schools and Community Readiness

The Manatee County School District spent the summer preparing campuses across Bradenton for the new academic year. Throughout June and July, crews tackled maintenance and minor renovation projects designed to support growing enrollment. Officials stressed the importance of these improvements in providing safe, welcoming spaces for students.

Local families spent the summer months preparing for the back-to-school period, taking part in supply drives and attending orientation events toward the end of summer. As late summer arrived, schools throughout Bradenton opened for the new academic year.

Arts, History, and Cultural Offerings

Bradenton’s cultural scene remained active even during the sweltering hot summer. The Manatee Performing Arts Center offered live productions that kept local audiences engaged, while the Manatee Village Historical Park continued to welcome visitors eager to learn about the area’s pioneer roots.

Anna Maria Island held seasonal art fairs and sunset markets during June and July, offering opportunities for local vendors and artists. These events featured aspects of the area’s history, art, and coastal appeal.