LECOM Field/Village of the Arts Mobility Study

Originating from the Tourism and Economy chapter of the MPO’s Long Range Transportation Plan, the LECOM/Village of the Arts (VOTA) Mobility Study focused on improving transportation infrastructure around two of Bradenton’s key economic and cultural anchors: LECOM Park (the spring training home of the Pittsburgh Pirates and home field for the Bradenton Marauders baseball teams) and the Village of the Arts, an emerging artists’ community.

The study assessed existing roadway conditions and identified infrastructure needs to improve mobility for people walking, biking, and driving. Benesch developed and prioritized a range of recommendations, including alternative design concepts for two major corridors, construction of a bicycle boulevard, and installation of frequent midblock pedestrian crossings. Short-term maintenance projects were also identified to address immediate safety and connectivity issues, while long-term recommendations introduced Complete Streets features such as widened sidewalks and enhanced intersections.

The plan further incorporated green stormwater infrastructure to enhance environmental performance and corridor aesthetics. Recommendations were organized across short-, medium-, and long-term timeframes to support phased implementation.

The resulting plan established a coordinated framework to enhance multimodal access, improve safety, and strengthen neighborhood connections while supporting the continued growth and vitality of Bradenton’s cultural and recreational districts.