The City of Sarasota has recently approved a demolition permit for the historic McAlpin House, a structure that has stood since 1912 at 1530 Cross Street. This decision marks a significant development in the plans of Orange Pineapple LLC, who acquired the property for $32 million as part of a 3.1-acre redevelopment project in downtown Sarasota.

Historical Significance of the McAlpin House

 

The McAlpin House, built by George McAlpin, one of Sarasota’s founding fathers, has been a symbol of the city's rich history. Designated as a historic structure in the 1980s, the house has been vacant for some time but remains a significant landmark near Burns Court.

 

City Commission's Decision

 

On May 6, the Sarasota City Commission voted 3-2 in favor of granting the demolition permit. Commissioners Debbie Trice and Vice Mayor Jen Ahearn-Koch cast the dissenting votes. This decision overturned an earlier vote by the city's Historic Preservation Board, which had denied the demolition request.

 

Developer's Commitment to Preservation

 

Orange Pineapple LLC has pledged that the demolition will be a last resort. Several alternatives are being considered to preserve the historical significance of the McAlpin House, including:

 

Demolishing the house but incorporating a replication of its facade in the new development, complete with a historical marker.

Moving the house approximately 150 feet to the corner of the property, although this would place the new building very close to it.

Relocating the house to nearby Pioneer Park, with the developer offering up to $200,000 to fund the move.

Future Plans and Community Impact

 

The entire redevelopment property is zoned for up to 10 stories high and a residential density of 50 units per acre. The mixed-use development will be bound by South Pineapple Avenue, South Orange Avenue, and Ringling Boulevard, with Cross Street bisecting the site.

 

Commissioner Erik Arroyo noted that the house has been vacant and suggested that the area is ripe for redevelopment. With the city's approval, Orange Pineapple can now proceed with developing a site plan, which could take up to two years. During this period, the developer has pledged to continue working with the city and the Historical Society to explore relocation options.

 

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