Airport tries to remain optimistic on expansion plans, amid proposed legislative constraints.
2001 Airport tries to remain optimistic on expansion plans, amid proposed legislative constraints. If the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport's expansion plans are curtailed by a legislative amendment, it will mean more than simple construction delays. It will mean the end of the airport as a competitive force, says Executive Director Fred Piccolo. The airport is concerned that an amendment tacked onto a state growth-management bill last week could squash its plans to extend its main runway, complete a business park off 15th Street East and perform any capital improvements for years. The Sarasota-Bradenton airport is the only airport in Florida that meets that definition.