Manatee County to Dedicate Roberto Clemente Way

MANATEE COUNTY — The Manatee County Commission unanimously voted to proclaim a county-owned section of 27th Street East shall be named “Roberto Clemente Memorial Way,” after the legendary Pittsburg Pirates baseball player.

“Our Father’s legacy transcends the baseball field,” said Roberto Clemente, Jr. “His dedication to excellence, compassion for others and unwavering commitment to serving his community and nation continue to inspire us all. The street designation in his honor is a testament to his remarkable life and the lasting impact on Manatee County and beyond.”

Roberto Enrique Clemente Walker is considered one of the greatest athletes and humanitarians of the 20th century. Born in Carolina, Puerto Rico, on August 18, 1934, he began a storied baseball career in the Puerto Rican Professional League at just 17 years old. In 1955, Clemente signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates, the club he would play for over the following 18 seasons. During that time, Clemente made an impression on the organization and the sport, joining the 3,000-hit club and hitting a career .317.

Ultimately, Clemente lived a life of giving—giving to baseball, giving to his family, and giving to the community. Each year, Major League Baseball (MLB) honors one player with the Roberto Clemente Award for best representing the game of baseball through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy and positive contributions, both on and off the field.

Schools, parks, and thoroughfares have been named or renamed in honor of the Hall of Famer. The dedication of this part of 27th Street from SR 64 to 38th Avenue East will include the installation of Memorial signage at key locations and intersections along the corridor.

The proclamation was made during Tuesday's regular BOCC Meeting. The road will be officially renamed in a ceremony at 1 p.m. on February 21, 2024, at Pirate City (1701 27th St E, Bradenton, FL 34208). Members of the Clemente family and Pittsburgh Pirates organization will join in the celebration.