Mote unveils plans for new aquarium

SARASOTA (FOX 13) - Mote Marine Aquarium has plans for a new state-of-the-art aquarium to be built right along University Parkway.

For years, Mote says, they've been running out of space at their current City Island location.  They've had to convert bathrooms and closets into office space, and also had to turn away scientists who want to research there.

Mote unveiled their new plans for an aquarium to be based off of University Parkway at Nathan Benderson Park.  They say it's a perfect fit for their growing aquarium and one that will give back to the community.

“This location is incredible.  It is heads above any other site that we looked at in terms of its accessibility and the growth and the activities in this area,” offered Dr. Michael Crosby, Mote Marine’s CEO.

The new aquarium is expected to draw a $28-million economic impact to the area. It'll cost well over $100-million to build.

Mote Marine says they have already secured 20 percent of commitments to back the financial cost.

Until the new aquarium is built, the City Island location will remain up and running.