Manatee Ave. could use a 5-story parking garage

Concerning the traffic on Anna Maria Island at Holmes Beach, why not build a three- to five-story parking deck at the end of Manatee Avenue?

The old restroom facility could be replaced, and it would help relieve some of the traffic concerns, especially with people parking all along Manatee Avenue and by businesses they aren't frequenting. Charge $5 a day which, surely, people would pay to be close to the beach and not wasting time driving back and forth looking for a spot. And it would be much safer for pedestrians, open up parking for the businesses, and Manatee Avenue would be safer.

If built with certain codes it could possibly even be used as a storm shelter. Other beaches in Florida charge to park and, not that I am a huge fan of paying to park, but it is a better alternative to what the current parking/traffic situation is at Holmes Beach.

The fees could go toward the original cost, upkeep and maintenance and any other bills. What is left over could be for AMI to use as it is needed. This could be a valuable asset to the community, not only to thwart traffic and pedestrian concerns, but as a possible shelter if needed. Thanks for your consideration of a parking garage as a possibility!

Snowbird turned into resident,

This story was originally published May 22, 2017 at 1:00 PM with the headline "Manatee Ave. could use a 5-story parking garage."