Benderson's vision to transform The Crossings at Siesta Key moves forward

Along South Tamiami Trail near the northern entrance to Siesta Key, the largely vacant Southgate Mall has worn several names over the years, including Westfield Southgate Plaza and, currently, The Crossings at Siesta Key.

Whatever the 35-acre property’s brand will be going forward, the Oct. 21 Comprehensive Plan amendment approval by the Sarasota City Commission, which will require a second vote Nov. 4, will be redeveloped into a mixed-use lifestyle village with retail, commercial and residential components.

The unanimous approval will revise text in the Metropolitan Regional Future Land Use Classification by adding development consisting of retail, office, residential, mixed-use development and/or support facilities associated with mixed-use development. Currently, residential is not permitted in that land use category.