The Southgate Mall—currently known as The Crossings at Siesta Key—has seen a series of rebrands and transformations over the years. But with a significant redevelopment plan in motion, this 35-acre site is set to become much more than a shopping center. On October 21, the Sarasota City Commission took a major step forward, granting initial approval to amend the site’s Comprehensive Plan, which paves the way for a mixed-use lifestyle village featuring retail, commercial, and residential spaces. A second vote, set for November 4, is required to finalize this shift.

With unanimous support, the amendment will update the Metropolitan Regional Future Land Use Classification to include diverse development options—retail, office spaces, residential units, and more—that align with a community-oriented approach. Importantly, Benderson Development, managing the project through SWFL Associates LLC and Siesta Retail LLC, has committed to designating 10% of the residential units as “attainable” housing, creating a bridge to more inclusive housing options within this sought-after area.

The development process is projected to span 10 to 15 years due to several existing long-term leases on the site. Benderson’s plans currently include up to 848 apartments on the property’s eastern side, with roughly 85 units set aside as attainable under the city’s guidelines. For each phase, Benderson will include attainable housing gradually to balance the high up-front infrastructure costs—such as updating the site’s stormwater management to meet modern environmental standards.

As Benderson’s plans roll out, residents can expect the existing mall building to be replaced with new structures, from a boutique hotel to vibrant office spaces and eateries. Notably, popular spots like Cinebistro and Connors Steak & Seafood will remain part of the revitalized landscape. With a vision similar to popular developments like Mercado in Naples and Tampa’s Hyde Park Village, this redevelopment aims to reshape the area into a dynamic community hub.