Rock climbing is all about finding ways to overcome difficulties, both mental and physical. Each ascent presents unique challenges that require strength, strategy and perseverance, turning every climb into a journey of problem-solving and self-discovery. Austin Venhaus first started working on the concept for Project 24 Climbing back in 2019 but faced many obstacles along the way. Now, with the help of partners Aaron Rutsky and his wife Andrea Rutsky, his vision is about to be realized. Construction for the brand new facility began in August and the opening date is projected for April of 2025. “We want Project 24 to be for everyone,” says Venhaus. “From zero years old to a hundred years old, from the most athletic person in the world to someone who has never climbed at all. We want everyone involved.” Venhaus and the Rutskys talked with climbing gym owners all over the country including Vertical Ventures in St. Petersburg and have designed the project from the ground up to accommodate every member of the community. The 19,000 square foot facility will feature a bouldering area and a top rope area with both lead climbing and auto-belay, and climbing routes will rotate every six to eight weeks to keep things fresh. In addition to social groups and youth camps, Project 24 has plans for programs to accommodate climbers with physical limitations including sensory issues or low grip strength. This might look like early quiet hours or adaptive equipment. “We very much want to be a space where everyone feels welcome, not just climbing-wise but in terms of being themselves authentically,” Venhaus says. “Everybody should be able to act like themselves and feel comfortable and not feel judged,” Aaron Rutsky adds. “That includes people with physical limitations that might feel like they can’t climb.” Additional amenities will include a dedicated area with gym equipment, yoga and other fitness classes and an infrared sauna. There is also a 2,000 square foot social working area that’s open to everyone, whether that’s remote workers who want to bring their laptops and get out of the house, high schoolers who want to work on homework before a climb, or parents who want to relax while their child is in a class. It’s intended to serve as one of those increasingly-rare third spaces where people can socialize outside of home or work. “We want to be a hub for the community,” says Venhaus. Project 24 Climbing will be located off Fruitville Road, east of I-75 across the lake from downtown Waterside. To keep up on the latest news including opening dates and the micro-gym that will be available before the opening, follow the gym on social media at facebook.com/SarasotaClimbingGym and instagram.com/project24climbing. You can also visit their website at project24climbing.com.