The City of Madeira Beach was counting on a renaissance when they hired Shane Crawford as City Manager. Together with Mayor Travis Palladeno, a retired charter captain who was re-elected in 2014 with one of the highest margins in Florida election history, the pair are leading the city into the 21st Century. Low interest rates and creative financing has kept miliage unchanged.
Triggered by the city’s investment in itself, a time of change has arrived. While two large new developments are being resisted by some as too much, too fast, the developments are proposed where the densest development ought to be. Madeira Beach is blessed to have two local developers behind the projects. They both have shown a love for the community and have made significant investments here. The first major new project announced is Jim Holton’s Holiday Isle Marina project.
The marina plan proposes 150 hotel rooms, 122 condo-hotel rooms, 68 residential units in three multi-family buildings, a restaurant and 96 boat slips. Each building has been carefully sited for the most advantageous view and to minimize intrusions within the site. The marina will create an activity center for residents and visitors alike while extra parking should alleviate traffic from tourists looking for a place to park, and the added green space will create a pleasant environment.
The Holiday Isle Marina will make Madeira Beach a true seaside destination unlike any other city in the Tampa Bay region. The plan is pedestrian friendly, with a way to walk under the bridge. Bike-sharing, water taxis and extra trolley service will help minimize traffic impacts.
A planned new 5,000 square-foot destination restaurant will invite boaters from across the region to visit Madeira Beach. The ease of docking at the Marina will make “going to lunch or dinner by boat” a truly pleasant adventure.
The adjoining hotels, with shuttles to the beach, a pedestrian walkway to enjoy the beach life of Madeira Beach. Proximity to the new Town Center development, just steps away and direct access from the city’s main connection to the mainland makes this a good plan. You can also walk to the 911 Memorial.
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In addition to creating a signature gateway development for Madeira Beach, the Marina and the Town Center projects will significantly increase the city’s ad valorem tax base, the sales tax and hotel room tax which will ensure the city will have even more funds to keep taxes low and increase infrastructure and economic development.