Former Florida Army Air Base Structure Moves Closer to Historical Status

The Venice City Council unanimously approved placing the last remaining building from the former Venice Army Air Base, Florida on the local Register of Historical Resources, the Sarasota Herald-Tribune reported. The Venice Municipal Mobile Home Park Community Center, built in 1942 to train soldiers for WWII, retains original features like its floor and kitchen sink. Final approval is expected on July 9. The move is part of the city’s effort to highlight historical structures for its upcoming centennial celebration.

Detroit Council Frustrated by Lack of Progress on Armory Renovation

The Detroit City Council approved a one-year extension for the Parade Co. to start construction on the Brodhead Armory by Oct. 1, 2025 and complete it by Aug. 1, 2027. The approval came despite concerns about the company’s slow fundraising. The project, needing $45 million, aims to restore the historic site as the Parade Co.’s new headquarters, though only $14.5 million has been raised so far.

City of Venice photo