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About Anna Maria & the History of Pine Avenue
Original development on Anna Maria was sparked by the construction of the City Pier, which was built at the end of Pine Avenue. (Circa 1911) The Anna Maria Beach Development Co. encouraged vacationers to visit to Anna Maria Beach. One hundred years later, Anna Maria, FL stands out as a unique island destination. The island residents and business owners are dedicated to preserving the beauty and charm that defines its special character and family friendliness. The island’s unspoiled white sand beaches, the relaxed lifestyle, friendly residents, phenomenal restaurants and one-of-a-kind shops continue to attract and enchant those who visit it.
The City of Anna Maria, Florida has approximately 1800 year-round residents. One must add the visitors from all over the world, who are fortunate to call it home for part of each year.
Pine Avenue Restoration is an idea born out of a desire to preserve the original vision for a Pine Avenue village and to protect the extremely limited "historic boutique business district," which runs the entire length of the street and, practically speaking, is the only remaining area on the entire island (and perhaps the entire gulf coast) where such a large project is possible.
Central to this vision is the strong conviction, gathered from citizens, appointed and elected city officials, that low level, historic beach cottages best reflect the culture, heritage and nature of our small city. Pine Ave is our last, best hope to capture and preserve this legacy. Our plans call for developing the Pine Avenue units with historically compatible structures. More specifically, housing first floor boutique retail shops and a second floor living area inspired by Old Florida. The new village will be complemented by inviting front porches and balconies, and topped off with such architecturally rich details as pitched tin like roofs and dormer windows. The look will draw its inspiration from the historic cottages that are currently interspersed on Pine Avenue and existing historic structures. The Pine Avenue Restoration group is dedicated to renovate old structures whenever possible. We envision quality, value-added retail boutique shops that will encourage and cater to local foot and bicycle traffic. Don’t forget the additional foot traffic delivered to our village from island residents and visitors who arrive by island trolley or car.
Just as in the early 1900’s, when the Anna Maria Beach Development Company encouraged visitors to ride the steamer to the City Pier and promenade down Pine Ave to the Anna Maria Bath House, where the Sandbar Restaurant sits today. Our vision is to re-create that Pine Avenue village and preserve a little bit of Old Florida for future generations to enjoy. |
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