High-End Kennel Approved Near Airport

The former Rip Van Winkle bowling alley at 8154 North Tamiami Trail across from the is set to become home to as many 161 animals in short or long-term care after Manatee County Commissioners gave the nod to transforming the property to a high-end dog kennel.

“There will be internet cameras so owners can keep track of their dogs,” said Misty Servia an employee with King Engineering who represented the operator. 

She said the old bowling alley will be transformed into a modern facility for the dogs. The operator plans to relocate his family to the area to run Bayside Pet Resort. Servia added that the owner, listed as 8154 LLC, has already coordinated with several Manatee County animal rescue operations and plans to use the new kennel as a showcase for adoptable animals once it is in operation.

Two commissioners expressed concern for noise in the adjoining bayfront neighborhood.

“I’m very sensitive to noise levels at an existing community," said Robin DiSabatino, the commissioner who represents that area. "Those are very quiet cul de sacs that have been there for years.”

At one point, a commissioner suggested putting off a final decision pending further staff study. But Servia said, “If this is continued, the deal will probably fall through.”

Because the effort would redevelop an existing but shuttered commercial property, it falls into alignment with the count’s comprehensive plan, staff said. The planning board supported the project unanimously.

Servia said the dogs would be kept inside except for short intervals when their kennels are cleaned. The inside will feature artificial turf with an under-layer of gravel and stone to fight the usual odors associated with kennels, she added.

Commissioner Joe McClash moved to approve the rezone application, but added a stipulation that a noise mitigation plan be included in the final site plan “to insure compatibility with surrounding properties.”