Having seen the protest signs along South Orange Avenue, I just want to point out that the garage is only one part of the Selby Gardens’ Master Site Plan project. Selby is a world-class botanical resource and, as such, should keep up with the times and technologies. The botanical work they do should be safe from hurricanes. The gardens should (and will be) expanded. And the expanded parking will allow more people to contribute to our local economy—something that keeps Sarasota popular in many markets including real estate! In my opinion, if Selby had not been created, that whole area would probably now be condos such as 888 Partners.

In conclusion I want to say that whenever I see those protest signs along South Orange, all I can think of is how selfish those folks appear to be. They all live within walking distance of Selby Gardens. Most visitors do not, and Selby Gardens would not exist if it were not popular with folks outside of Hudson Bayou.

Marlane Wurzbach, Sarasota.