Sarasota to Build Large Boat and RV Storage Site

Entrepreneur Brian McCarthy plans a 350-spot storage facility on Butler Avenue starting in early 2027.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Camping

Sarasota to Build Large Boat and RV Storage Site

Live Poll

Is now a good time to invest in specialized local storage infrastructure businesses?

A new $22 million storage facility is set for construction on Butler Avenue in Sarasota to address a local shortage of boat and RV parking. The project, which is scheduled to break ground in the first quarter of 2027, will provide 350 specialized storage spots for area residents.

Why it matters

The development aims to alleviate the regional supply-demand imbalance for boat storage in Sarasota and Manatee counties. By using an inland location, the project significantly reduces land, construction, and insurance costs compared to waterfront alternatives.

The storage site occupies just under 4 acres and will feature 87 ground-floor RV spaces along with 60 trailer-only racks. About 75% of the total 350 storage spots are dedicated to boats, with a single facility forklift costing up to $1 million.

The players

Brian McCarthy

Brian McCarthy is an entrepreneur who has personally invested $1 million into the storage facility venture.

The details

The facility will reach a maximum height of 65 feet and is expected to employ 10 people once operational. Customers will be able to use a mobile app to arrange 24-hour pickup for their stored boats and trailers.

50,500 boats were registered in Sarasota and Manatee counties as of 2025.
Construction is scheduled to begin in Q1 2027.

Culture Shift

The rise of inland, high-density storage facilities marks a departure from traditional waterfront marina models. This shift capitalizes on the growing demand for secure, accessible recreation vehicle parking as recreational ownership trends outpace existing storage infrastructure.

Boat and RV owners in the Sarasota area will gain access to 350 new secure storage spaces that facilitate 24-hour, app-scheduled pickups. This project provides a practical alternative to waterfront storage, potentially lowering costs for regional outdoor enthusiasts.

The takeaway

The proposed facility reflects a growing necessity to pair recreational growth with dedicated infrastructure. Residents looking to secure space for large vehicles should monitor construction progress to manage their storage planning effectively.