Madeira Beach opts for no frills improvements at John's Pass Village
The city had considered a more ambitious approach

By Wayne Ayers
Tampa Bay Times
Published: Oct 10, 2019

MADEIRA BEACH - The City Commission months ago looked at two proposals for improving the John's Pass Village area. One featured basic upgrades, such as enhanced landscaping, replacing seats with seat walls, up-lighting and new garbage containers.

The other took a more extensive "holistic approach,” with new entryways, a public plaza, possibly redrawn traffic patterns, and other less substantial changes.

The plan was back for discussion at a recent workshop where Commissioner Nancy Hodges said the merchants want a more basic approach."Like a general cleanup and sprucing up, pressure washing of the sidewalks, new plants and receptacles,'' she said. "Keep the rustic look, not a modern design.” Deb Laramie, acting public works director, said she had heard similar comments.

City Manager Robert Daniels will put together a session at which John's Pass merchants, residents, visitors, and city officials can give their feedback.

Finance Director Walter Pierce said there is about $75,000 in the budget to fund enhancements.