During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the proposal for a comprehensive archaeological survey of Sarasota, marking the first such effort since 1977. The initiative aims to complete a citywide survey of archaeological sites, which is a critical step in fulfilling the city's comprehensive plan for 2030.

The previous surveys, which included a citywide assessment of buildings constructed before 1970 and the Sarasota School of Architecture, laid the groundwork for this new project. The last archaeological survey was published in 1982, and the need for updated data has become increasingly urgent due to advancements in technology and the growing demand for construction permits in the area.

The proposed survey will encompass both prehistoric and historic sites, including the remnants of the original aboriginal populations and early settlement activities. Officials emphasized the importance of identifying these sites to prevent potential disruptions during construction activities. The survey will utilize modern techniques, such as ground-penetrating radar, alongside traditional excavation methods to assess the archaeological potential of various locations.

The meeting highlighted the procedural aspects of the survey, noting that any ground-disturbing activities would require prior testing to ensure the protection of significant archaeological resources. If an archaeological site is discovered during construction, work would halt, and the appropriate measures would be taken to mitigate impacts, including potential variances for construction plans.

Before the survey can commence, it must receive approval from the city commission, which will require a detailed proposal outlining the project's budget and timeline. Officials expressed a desire to expedite the approval process to begin the survey within the year, underscoring its importance for both historical preservation and future development in Sarasota.