Developer moves forward on condo and marina project

A Sarasota development firm is proposing building hundreds of condominiums and a private marina on a 12-acre tract adjacent to Hawks Harbor in Manatee County.

Martel Realty's Blu Harbor plans call for 212 condos in four seven-story buildings and a 132-slip marina, along with other amenities, on land along Tamiami Trail that has been designated as an “urban corridor” intended to spur further redevelopment.

Martel is seeking to modify an existing development plan to reduce the number of residential units and “be more attractive” to buyers in the planned gated community.