**Title: Farewell to a Local Jewel: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium Prepares for Transition**

As Sarasota’s beloved Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium prepares to close its City Island location, visitors from near and far are seizing the opportunity to experience its offerings one last time. This transition marks a significant change for the community, as Mote plans to relocate its operations to a new, state-of-the-art campus at Nathan Benderson Park.

The Mote Marine Laboratory, founded in 1955 by Dr. Eugenie Clark, has been a cornerstone of marine research and education in the Sarasota area for decades. It attracts over 350,000 visitors annually and has played an instrumental role in wildlife rehabilitation, marine research, and education. The current facilities on City Island have served as a hub for studying local marine environments and housing diverse marine life, offering both residents and tourists a chance to engage with the region’s unique aquatic ecosystems.

The move to Nathan Benderson Park, expected to open in phases starting in 2023, represents a commitment to expanding research capabilities and increasing public engagement. The new location promises advanced research facilities, a more interactive aquarium experience, and greater potential for innovative educational programs. With the expanded space, Mote aims to deepen its focus on critical issues like marine biodiversity, ocean acidification, and coral reef restoration, aligning with global conservation efforts.

The departure from City Island is bittersweet for many in the Sarasota community, who have cherished the aquarium as both a cultural and educational landmark. Yet, the anticipation of Mote’s future at Nathan Benderson Park heralds a new chapter in its storied history. The transition promises to bolster Mote’s mission of advancing marine science through collaboration and innovation while continuing to inspire ocean literacy in future generations.

As this iconic institution prepares for its next journey, visitors are making the most of their final opportunities to walk through the City Island exhibits, enjoying a last glimpse of an era that has left an indelible mark on Sarasota’s community and beyond.