IMG Expansion Vacates Right-Of-Way

BRADENTON -- IMG is moving west, or at least its border is. 51st Street West currently represents the western border of the famed athletic academy's property. Earlier this year, however, Manatee County Commissioners voted to approve Ordinance 10-39 – removing use of a southern portion of 47th Street West – and now, it's off the map.

Resolution R-12-228 was approved Tuesday by the BOCC, vacating an unimproved right-of-way for IMG Academies. As additional fields move west and the grounds expand, more priority is placed on the also expanding number of members. 

IMG representatives say the vacation of the property is largely due the safety on the campus. They have complied with the technical requirements of the County's Land Development Code and Florida Statutes and now want to reassure that the property is represented by the Academy. 

Alan Boudreau has a home in the El Conquistador neighborhood. He came to the commission to air his concerns. Boudreau feared IMG might have plans for the right-of-way, and take traffic through the neighborhood. He complained about the noise that has been coming from the campus and wonders what might be next.

Caleb Grimes, representing IMG, reassured Boudreau that IMG does not have any plans to open up 47th and take traffic through the El Conquistador neighborhood. Grimes also conveyed that message to the President of the El Conquistador Homeowners Association. That was all either had to hear.

The Board of County Commissioners voted to Approve R-12-228 after reassuring all utilities were guaranteed all access. -- Approved, 6 - 0, Commissioner Robin DiSabatino was absent.