Marriott-branded hotel headed to Wellen Park

A master-planned community in South Sarasota County is growing, with the second phase of its downtown district now in development. Wellen Park recently broke ground on phase two of its downtown — called Downtown Wellen — a project that will bring shops, restaurants and office space to Wellen Park Boulevard. A 120-room hotel and 2-acre dog park are also part of the plans.

The second phase of Downtown Wellen will include a pair of two-story buildings that span 44,000 square feet. While the ground floor will feature restaurants and retail, the upstairs will be occupied by offices.

Trapolin-Peer Architects handled design, which will include a signature tower and canopied patios for outdoor dining. The New Orleans-based firm also designed the existing two-story office building on Wellen Park Boulevard, according to a statement.