What’s under construction at this Manatee County park? $15M in upgrades are on the way

Manatee County’s beloved G.T. Bray Park is in the middle of a $15 million makeover.

Big changes are coming to West Bradenton park, including new equipment, new recreation areas and quality-of-life improvements for residents and visitors. When the county built its first large-scale park at 5502 33rd Ave. Dr. W., Bradenton, it marked the start of its Parks and Recreation Department.

“It was top of the line at that time, but it’s been 40 years and parks do age,” Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge said in an interview with the Bradenton Herald. “It’s time for a makeover of the park.”

The county renovated the baseball field, replaced the baseball and softball backstops and installed football uprights. County officials also approved new playgrounds, bought gym equipment and added LED lighting and fencing throughout the park.

There are plans to expand the fitness center, build a programming pool, refurbish the pool deck and build an overflow parking lot. Plus, county officials said basketball courts, a batting cage, sand volleyball courts and an outdoor fitness rig are in the works.

In 2022, Manatee County Government renovated the C.V. Walton Racquet Center, which features 20 pickleball courts and eight clay tennis courts. The park also frequently hosts events, such as the county’s spring music series and an annual Halloween celebration.

Van Ostenbridge, who grew up in West Bradenton and played little league baseball and Pop Warner football at the park, said it was a passion project for him.

“It’s the heart and soul of West Bradenton,” he said. “If you’re not at the beach, you’re at the park. It was badly in need of a makeover and I think it will be set for another 40 years now.”

County officials plan to host a dedication ceremony to celebrate G.T. Bray’s renovations in July.

This story was originally published May 20, 2024 at 5:50 AM.