BEWARE OF WHAT YOU WISH FOR …By H. J. de Blij

By Jim Tucker

Gasparilla Island Bridge Authority board chairman George Robinson: "what we got is outstanding . . .outstanding."

Architect Jonathan Parks talks about his vision for the new GIBA administration building, "when people approach the island by water they see the Lighthouse. We wanted to give them a similar experience when they come by land." Jonathan Cole of Giffels-Webster Engineering allowed that it had been a rare project, "everybody is still friendly." Brad Steinmann, Bradanna, Inc.

Construction agreed "there was great rapport . . . everyone kept the sense of quality and made the effort to get results."

The result of those efforts was celebrated last Monday with a tour of the facilities and a reception that flowed through the offices and onto the balconies.

Mr. Parks, of Sarasota, spoke briefly about the high level of cooperation the owners and builders gave his office. The building received high praise from Jesse Bzura of Giffels- Webster Engineering, Inc. "This building is certified to withstand 140 miles per hour winds," he said, "but is actually overbuilt and will be safe in higher winds." At 6 1/2 feet above the eleven foot FEMA requirement, the first floor could withstand a category 4 with a 15 foot storm surge.

Pictured are Brad Steinmann, Jim Cooper, George Robinson, Jonathan Parks, and Jonathan Cole.

GIBA's Aeicor Metal Products roof system was also used on a Punta Gorda commercial building that survived Hurricane Charley's 150 MPH winds with no damage.

All the office spaces have wide open views and GIBA Executive Director Jim Cooper's office has views of the toll booths, the bridge and water views on both sides of the causeway. Security cameras constantly monitor all operations. Among the details: planners placed the parking for handicapped customers 12 feet from the elevator that opens 10 feet from the second floor service desk and chains replace downspouts for a less cluttered look. The tinted glass meets "sea-turtle-light protection tint" requirements.

The building took 13 months to complete and came in slightly under budget at $732,000 of the planned $750,000.