Venice City Council approves zoning change for Sarasota Memorial Hospital expansion

The Venice City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing healthcare services in the community by approving an ordinance to rezone the Sarasota Memorial Hospital Venice campus. During the meeting on July 8, 2025, the council voted to change the zoning designation for the property located at 2600 East Laurel Road from Laurel West to a Planned Public Hospital District (PPH), which will allow for future expansions and improvements.

The ordinance includes modifications to the binding master plan, permitting a maximum building height of 150 feet and a maximum floor area ratio (FAR) of 3. These changes are aimed at accommodating the hospital's growth and aligning it with similar facilities in the region. The rezoning is expected to facilitate the hospital's ability to provide expanded services and potentially transform into a teaching hospital, which could significantly benefit the local community by creating more healthcare jobs and improving access to medical care.

City planner Britney Smith presented the proposal, emphasizing its consistency with the city’s comprehensive plan and land development regulations. The council's decision reflects a commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure in Venice, which is strategically located along the I-75 corridor, making it accessible for residents across Sarasota County.

The council also addressed potential transportation impacts, noting that the hospital's current operations are within approved peak hour trip limits, with future analyses planned as expansion progresses. The approval of this zoning amendment marks a pivotal moment for Venice, positioning the hospital as a critical healthcare resource for years to come.

As the council prepares for the final reading of the ordinance, community members can anticipate a more robust healthcare facility that meets the growing needs of the population.