After years of planning and good-faith collaboration, the Board of Directors for the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation has initiated the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process outlined in its 2022 Public-Private Partnership Agreement with the City of Sarasota for the proposed new Performing Arts Center. The decision follows extensive efforts to address amendments proposed by the City to the existing partnership agreement and establish a clear, fiscally sound path forward for the project. The Foundation reported $50 million in private gifts and pledges this spring, before launching a formal capital campaign. Its board is also evaluating whether the center could move forward through an alternative structure, including independent development. No decisions have been made regarding a future location, funding structure, or timeline. The Foundation says its commitment to arts education, cultural access, and Sarasota’s creative future remains unchanged. 

For the entire Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation board statement, visit