Whats going on in fruitland /colony area??

[Annie01]

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????

[MikeV]

Very old news. The land preparation and golf courses are well under way. Just drive out 446A towards 441 and look right and you will see all the new land clearing. Drive south from 446A on Morse Blvd and see the new Golf Courses.

[graciegirl]

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????

Hi Annie. You just get back? I think the birds are flyin' in folks.

[sunnyatlast]

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????

It's a matter of supply and demand. People from 50 states and other countries want to buy a new home here, where it is proven fact that The Villages is unparalleled in getting things done--quickly, affordably, aesthetically, environmentally friendly, and solvently.

They use this thing called a "budget", too, which seems to be unknown to national elected officials. (See VCDD Office of Management and Budget (http://districtgov.org/departments/budget/budget.aspx) )

Ten thousand baby boomers are retiring daily. They have to live somewhere. It's their choice to live here. They won't need to spend $400+ per month for heating fuel as they would in Long Island, NY, Boston, Chicago, Milwaukee, Mpls, etc. and they will be able to go outdoors to walk and exercise every day, year round.

I say, "Welcome to T.L. -- The Living!"

[billethkid]

If this is a zoo.....I'll takeit!!!!

Ya shoulda been here when there were ONLY 35,000 people in TV.....when we built our home....summer of 2004.

None of the shopping in or near TV existed then. There was no Lake Sumter Landing......they just finished making 466 a four lane road (not 466- A).

The busy time of year in those days equals the slow days of the current times.

I suspect many who see TV as it is today, might not have bought here with the very limited shopping/dining of 10 years ago.

The more the merrier. I also suspect if they built a shopping mall instaed of adding more homes there would be an even larger increase of traffic and cars on the road as it would certainly be a draw for other than TV residents just like so much of what we have today.

Nope this is no where near being a zoo......at least by my experience and where from!!!!! To each his own!

[tuccillo]

As long as the infrastructure scales up, I don't see a problem. By this I mean, they build golf courses, rec centers, pools, and shopping in proportion to the new homes being built. I appears that this is done so I don't see an issue.

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????

[ohiogolf]

Sears and Penneys? Both are near bankruptcy and no longer relevant. Let's get a Costco or Trader Joes.

[janmcn]

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/villages-debunks-myth-mall-108709/

In case you missed it, the head honcho from The Villages Commercial Division said last March that there will not be any shopping mall built along SR44. You can't much more insider information than this.

Also, The Fruitland Park Villages will only have two neighborhood pools and an executive golf course, as I recall.

[njbchbum]

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????

Do you honestly believe that all 2,000 homes will be occupied by year-round residents rather than a goodly number of snowbirds?

[Indydealmaker]

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????

Annie, surely you jest! This development has been all over TOTV for months. Your last name VanWinkle?

[Laurie2]

As long as the infrastructure scales up, I don't see a problem. By this I mean, they build golf courses, rec centers, pools, and shopping in proportion to the new homes being built. I appears that this is done so I don't see an issue.

Does anyone know if there are plans to build another regional rec center? Ratios are going to be even rougher if they do not.

I don't think so much about a mall, but Colony Publix and parking will be brutal. More brutal that is. I know there is a new Publix going in over by Brownwood but. . .even so. . .Colony will go :boom:

[CFrance]

It's a matter of supply and demand. People from 50 states and other countries want to buy a new home here, where it is proven fact that The Villages is unparalleled in getting things done--quickly, affordably, aesthetically, environmentally friendly, and solvently.

They use this thing called a "budget", too, which seems to be unknown to national elected officials. (See VCDD Office of Management and Budget (http://districtgov.org/departments/budget/budget.aspx) )

Ten thousand baby boomers are retiring daily. They have to live somewhere. It's their choice to live here. They won't need to spend $400+ per month for heating fuel as they would in Long Island, NY, Boston, Chicago, Milwaukee, Mpls, etc. and they will be able to go outdoors to walk and exercise every day, year round.

I say, "Welcome to T.L. -- The Living!"
Why must every #$%^&* subject have to have politics dragged into it? Why!!!

I suppose if I came up with a new recipe to share, someone would manage to relate it back to our nation's leaders and what they're doing wrong.

[GaryW]

Last Rec Ctr should be by 44 and Morse. Think It might be called Rohan Rec.
Plans change daily along with the Names of things like Buildings and Roads.
Fruitland Park starting to move along good. We are doing a wall for one of the Villa units today we started it. :pepper2:

[gomsiepop]

Yay for Costco!!

[Laurie2]

Last Rec Ctr should be by 44 and Morse. Think It might be called Rohan Rec.
Plans change daily along with the Names of things like Buildings and Roads.
Fruitland Park starting to move along good. We are doing a wall for one of the Villa units today we started it. :pepper2:

Do you know if that one is to be a regional rec center or just a regular rec center? Thanks.

[marianne237]

The Daily Commercial stated there would be a small shopping center on 466A near the intersection with micro track road

[graciegirl]

OP,

Keep in mind that the developers are builders and no matter how much their commercial development section wants to build places that you and other villagers want, the business has to see a need to come here and lease here.

The developer does not say... "Costco, you will come". It doesn't work that way.

AND remember how much we all wanted to be here? There are others who haven't moved here who want to be here a lot too. We aren't the only fish in the pond.

[champion6]

Do you know if that one is to be a regional rec center or just a regular rec center? Thanks.There will be a Regional Recreation Center at Morse and Rt 44. It's clearly shown on the 2014 $5 map.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????

I agree totally.... just what we need another freaking golf course and more crazy drivers in the round a bouts.

[jblum315]

As long as the infrastructure scales up, I don't see a problem. By this I mean, they build golf courses, rec centers, pools, and shopping in proportion to the new homes being built. I appears that this is done so I don't see an issue.

Let's hope the water holds up. Look what's happening in CA.

[janmcn]

The Daily Commercial stated there would be a small shopping center on 466A near the intersection with micro track road

86,000-square-foot commercial development eyed on CR 466A - Daily Commercial: Business (http://www.dailycommercial.com/business/article_d9de9972-a963-52ac-a77b-241711c3932b.html)

No start date or tenants announced.

[JB in TV]

86,000-square-foot commercial development eyed on CR 466A - Daily Commercial: Business (http://www.dailycommercial.com/business/article_d9de9972-a963-52ac-a77b-241711c3932b.html)

No start date or tenants announced.

Thanks for the link!

Of additional note, buried in that article, is this interesting quote "...Leesburg city commissioners this week agreed to extend a natural gas line to The Villages of Fruitland Park..."

I wonder if that means homes in Village of Fruitland Park will have natural gas available... Also, why is it that Leesburg is the municipality that is agreeing to extend natural gas?

[Aandjmassage]

We live in Fruitland Park and are on Leesburg utilities. The cheepest we had in Florida so that is a good.

[Bonanza]

At a a personal level, I have no problem with 2,000 more homes.

However, what I DO have a problem with are the roads. I understand that a "portion" of 466A is due to be widened. Why haven't they started? Some governmental mishap (ahem) for the delay? Look how long the road work on 441 took. Disgraceful! 466A west of Powell Road is an embarrassment. Why isn't it finished?

Micro Racetrack, Lake Ella and Rolling Acres roads all need to be widened -- NOW!

What is the real problem with getting these roads to at least partially keep up with the growth in population??? And please -- I don't want to hear anyone say $$$. That's always the age-old excuse. Float a bond or whatever, but do something!

[CFrance]

I hope somebody does something about the rotting garbage smell that starts at 466A by Colony shopping center and extends all the way down to the end of where they're building the new houses. There must be a hidden trash dump around there somewhere.

Be darned if I would buy one of those half-a-million designer houses with that kind of smell.

[Happinow]

Thanks for the link!

Of additional note, buried in that article, is this interesting quote "...Leesburg city commissioners this week agreed to extend a natural gas line to The Villages of Fruitland Park..."

I wonder if that means homes in Village of Fruitland Park will have natural gas available... Also, why is it that Leesburg is the municipality that is agreeing to extend natural gas?

Thanks for the link.....space will be housing both medical offices and shopping of some sort? Let's see I'm not a mind reader or anything like that but I'll bet there will be some sort of eye place, a dry cleaner, a frozen yogurt place, a chiropractor, a nail salon.......you know......just like the other 5 strip malls we already have.

[NYGUY]

86,000-square-foot commercial development eyed on CR 466A - Daily Commercial: Business (http://www.dailycommercial.com/business/article_d9de9972-a963-52ac-a77b-241711c3932b.html)

No start date or tenants announced.

Sounds like more positive news for The Villages!!

[graciegirl]

Thanks for the link.....space will be housing both medical offices and shopping of some sort? Let's see I'm not a mind reader or anything like that but I'll bet there will be some sort of eye place, a dry cleaner, a frozen yogurt place, a chiropractor, a nail salon.......you know......just like the other 5 strip malls we already have.

That is because.............that is WHO wants to rent them. YOU cannot make people rent there. One of our biggest problems is the "world" is not aware just what we are here. We have grown so quickly that the demographers are not keeping up with us.

[Laurie2]

Let's hope the water holds up. Look what's happening in CA.

I know. Even though we have bought a house here, I must admit to having had flashbacks to my long ago geology classes and those lectures on aquifers. Oh, well.

[CFrance]

That is because.............that is WHO wants to rent them. YOU cannot make people rent there. One of our biggest problems is the "world" is not aware just what we are here. We have grown so quickly that the demographers are not keeping up with us.
Perhaps with our recent designation as the fastest growing city, we will attract more of the world of businesses to at least do some research on the area.

[slipcovers]

Thanks for the link.....space will be housing both medical offices and shopping of some sort? Let's see I'm not a mind reader or anything like that but I'll bet there will be some sort of eye place, a dry cleaner, a frozen yogurt place, a chiropractor, a nail salon.......you know......just like the other 5 strip malls we already have.

I believe that parcel is not The Villages but another developer. I did see a sign, build to suit, commercial space for lease.

[NIPAS K-9]

I hope somebody does something about the rotting garbage smell that starts at 466A by Colony shopping center and extends all the way down to the end of where they're building the new houses. There must be a hidden trash dump around there somewhere.

Be darned if I would buy one of those half-a-million designer houses with that kind of smell.
There is for some time a big dump. south and to the right, why i stayed away from that area. Been there before they even crossed 466 a, with the building. Its surrounded by large trees and berms. Google earth shows it, Large square to right.

[Indydealmaker]

There is for some time a big dump. south and to the right, why i stayed away from that area. Been there before they even crossed 466 a, with the building. Its surrounded by large trees and berms. Google earth shows it, Large square to right.

That spot is for landfill type waste. It is not licensed for solid municipal waste.

[dbussone]

Last Rec Ctr should be by 44 and Morse. Think It might be called Rohan Rec.

Plans change daily along with the Names of things like Buildings and Roads.

Fruitland Park starting to move along good. We are doing a wall for one of the Villa units today we started it. :pepper2:


Thank you for the update

[VT2TV]

I believe that parcel is not The Villages but another developer. I did see a sign, build to suit, commercial space for lease.

Regardless who is building it, I HOPE they try extra hard to recruit new tennants!!!!!! So very tired of the same ol, same ol stores/owners/restaurants.



The Daily Commercial stated there would be a small shopping center on 466A near the intersection with micro track road

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????


I also read on the other newsletter that "they"--not TV, were going to build hundreds of houses somewhere in the area of Micro race track road and Rolling Acres Road. I did not know this but apparently there are already some houses in that area, will be increasing what is there and building other areas. I will say that I have only seen this on that 1 site, and nowhere else, so take this with a pinch of salt.

I also am very worried about the water supply for the surrounding area too.

[nitehawk]

keep building then tell me i can only water once a week --- catch me

[Sueclark]

Sarcasm aside, which is totally uncalled for, when we bought in The Villages in May, 2005 Sunset Pointe was the southernmost village. It astounds me that the building has gone so far south, which is remarkable. I do agree, however, that a HomeGoods, maybe a Cheesecake Factory or California Pizza Kitchen, would be nice. I do have my favorites in The Villages, but even that gets old. And now that my favorite clothing store has gone belly-up (Coldwater Creek), where to shop?? Petite sizes are very hard to find, and however much I love going to Belks, "variety is the spice of life." I did call HomeGoods headquarters and got a story about people/mile. Well, that was about 5 years ago. I think someone in their development departments needs to pay us a visit!!! Just my $.02. Oh, and why the survey every year if the above stores haven't been planning to build? A small mall with some variety and a nice "new" foodcourt--now that would be nice. Who's listening. . . .

[graciegirl]

Sarcasm aside, which is totally uncalled for, when we bought in The Villages in May, 2005 Sunset Pointe was the southernmost village. It astounds me that the building has gone so far south, which is remarkable. I do agree, however, that a HomeGoods, maybe a Cheesecake Factory or California Pizza Kitchen, would be nice. I do have my favorites in The Villages, but even that gets old. And now that my favorite clothing store has gone belly-up (Coldwater Creek), where to shop?? Petite sizes are very hard to find, and however much I love going to Belks, "variety is the spice of life." I did call HomeGoods headquarters and got a story about people/mile. Well, that was about 5 years ago. I think someone in their development departments needs to pay us a visit!!! Just my $.02. Oh, and why the survey every year if the above stores haven't been planning to build? A small mall with some variety and a nice "new" foodcourt--now that would be nice. Who's listening. . . .


The survey every year is probably used by the commercial development part of the operation to show valid requests for those businesses, a leveraging tool. You are right that the demographers in this country are not keeping up with us and you all know of the utter surprise visitors have when they come here. Some of the national chains who have just come out of a major downturn in business aren't looking to expand quite yet either.

Many stores like Homegoods would have been a huge success and they have missed a lot of business as thousands and thousands were feathering their new nests.

I am quite sure that the developer would like to build buildings to lease to all of these businesses you want, but those businesses have to want to come here and have the money for expansion and most of all to realize what a market we present.

Just keep contacting the businesses you want, it is all we can do and fill out the survey.
But places slightly more expensive like Coldwater Creek that does not have the entire spectrum of sizes do not get the business they expect here where most are very dollar wise and many are larger sizes.

[Bogie Shooter]

I agree totally.... just what we need another freaking golf course and more crazy drivers in the round a bouts.

Belive it or not this is a golfing community.......................didn't you notice when you drove in?

[Bogie Shooter]

At a a personal level, I have no problem with 2,000 more homes.

However, what I DO have a problem with are the roads. I understand that a "portion" of 466A is due to be widened. Why haven't they started? Some governmental mishap (ahem) for the delay? Look how long the road work on 441 took. Disgraceful! 466A west of Powell Road is an embarrassment. Why isn't it finished?

Micro Racetrack, Lake Ella and Rolling Acres roads all need to be widened -- NOW!

What is the real problem with getting these roads to at least partially keep up with the growth in population??? And please -- I don't want to hear anyone say $$$. That's always the age-old excuse. Float a bond or whatever, but do something!

Did you read the announcement of the 466A construction? Are they behind schedule? Why the hurry?
Do a Google search on the the 466A east............it was $ the boys up in Tallahasse didn't see the need for dollars on road construction as they had to give money to corporate welfare!

[janmcn]

There is for some time a big dump. south and to the right, why i stayed away from that area. Been there before they even crossed 466 a, with the building. Its surrounded by large trees and berms. Google earth shows it, Large square to right.

That spot is for landfill type waste. It is not licensed for solid municipal waste.


How long has that license for landfill type waste been in place, and what was the license preceding this one. And who is monitoring what gets dumped here?

If anyone is thinking about buying in this area, these are the questions you need to ask. There is a reason why there is a foul odor in this area.

[Bogie Shooter]

I know. Even though we have bought a house here, I must admit to having had flashbacks to my long ago geology classes and those lectures on aquifers. Oh, well.

Don't worry about the water. The political appointees have every thing under control. The continue to award water contracts to bottlers and others. So, there must be enough water?

[Cantwaittoarrive]

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????

Where have you been? This is not new or news

[graciegirl]

Where have you been? This is not new or news

What is new...on the online news of which we are not to name...is that they have found room for 28 more homes on an area that had to have a number of soil checks. (???????)

I know what is going to be said and who is going to say it.

The online news used a term something like they were going to cram them in. lol

We do have small lots here, but I can see people elbowing each other over in Fruitland Park area of The Villages. Someone suggested that the snowbirds in that area were going to be called Fruitflies..

[Laurie2]

Don't worry about the water. The political appointees have every thing under control. The continue to award water contracts to bottlers and others. So, there must be enough water?


Oh noooooo! More flashbacks! Your punctuation with that question mark at the end was not lost on me.

You see, geology was the only science I ever truly loved. Although I did have a brief flirtation with botany.

But I really do like having a house here. . .so. . .Oh, well. Oh, well. Oh, well. Ooooooooh, wellllll!

[nitehawk]

Your watering mandate did NOT come from The Villages. It came from some State directive.

We use reclaimed water for watering lawn - which is regulated by TV --- NOT the state --- Thank you

[Indydealmaker]

We use reclaimed water for watering lawn - which is regulated by TV --- NOT the state --- Thank you

Not everywhere in The Villages is irrigated with reclaimed water.

[Bogie Shooter]

We use reclaimed water for watering lawn - which is regulated by TV --- NOT the state --- Thank you

Not so sure.

Water supply quantities are regulated by the St. Johns Water Management District (Lake County) and Southwest Florida Water Management District (Sumter and Marion County) which have issued consumptive use permits to the four utility companies serving the residents of The Villages. Water and wastewater treatment and distribution are regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Home Irrigation:
•North of CR 466, homes are irrigated with potable water.
•South of CR 466, homes are irrigated with non-potable water which is comprised of storm water runoff that is collected in water retention areas and groundwater from the lower Floridan aquifer when storm water supplies are not available
VCDD Utilities/Amenities (http://www.districtgov.org/departments/Utilities/utilities.aspx)

[mulligan]

We use reclaimed water for watering lawn - which is regulated by TV --- NOT the state --- Thank you

Reclaimed water is used only on the golf courses. As noted above, home irrigation is a combination of stormwater and well water. Watering restrictions are dictated by water management districts statewide. The golf course watering allotments are regulated by the same agencies, because the ultimate source is the same.

[CFrance]

Reclaimed water is used only on the golf courses. As noted above, home irrigation is a combination of stormwater and well water. Watering restrictions are dictated by water management districts statewide. The golf course watering allotments are regulated by the same agencies, because the ultimate source is the same.
Reclaimed water is used to irrigate our lawn also. New neighborhoods in Sumter use reclaimed water. Come smell it... YUCK!

[Annie01]

Annie, surely you jest! This development has been all over TOTV for months. Your last name VanWinkle?

no sir..JUST GOT BACK FROM N. Y. CAN'T SEE THE WORK BEING DONE IN THE VILLAGES FROM THERE BUT THANKS FOR THE COMMENT ...NOT !!!

[Indydealmaker]

no sir..JUST GOT BACK FROM N. Y. CAN'T SEE THE WORK BEING DONE IN THE VILLAGES FROM THERE BUT THANKS FOR THE COMMENT ...NOT !!!

C'mon Annie, quit kidding around. You posted just a month ago that you were here at Mallory.

[Bogie Shooter]

Don't they have Internet in New York??

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

As long as the infrastructure scales up, I don't see a problem. By this I mean, they build golf courses, rec centers, pools, and shopping in proportion to the new homes being built. I appears that this is done so I don't see an issue.

And I believe that history has shown that this developer has always done that. Sometimes it might take a bit of time for the retail and other infrastructure to keep up with the additional residents, but eventually there will be plenty.

It is in the developer's best interest to keep the residents happy. Word gets out quickly when a residents in a development of this size are not happy. The reason that people keep moving here and new homes keep getting built is the reputation of The Villages as the best retirement community in the world. I'm sure that the developer wants to keep it that way.

[CFrance]

There is for some time a big dump. south and to the right, why i stayed away from that area. Been there before they even crossed 466 a, with the building. Its surrounded by large trees and berms. Google earth shows it, Large square to right.

That spot is for landfill type waste. It is not licensed for solid municipal waste.
Indy, I go by there all the time. It smells exactly like the trash dump on I96 in Coopersville, MI. You have to close your windows and hold your breath. Regardless of what is being put there, rotting trash is the smell, and it is frequently pervasive.

A rose by any other name...

[cquick]

I sure hope this means that the vacant land around Colony Plaza shopping center will fill in with a Denny's, a Wendy's, a Bob Evan's, and my husband is hoping for a Tilted Kilt! :a040:

[njbchbum]

C'mon Annie, quit kidding around. You posted just a month ago that you were here at Mallory.

And were you battling love bugs in the Villages or elsewhere in May?

"finally found out the secret.....tried the soap and water...sort of worked.....

but then put a few citronela candles out.... AND POOF....GONE !!!!!

at least for the past 3 hours....will light them again later........candles....go figure...i guess they hate the smell......

finally i can walk out my front door.....try it ..it works!!!!!
also rub your car window and hood...with dryer sheets.....they hate the smell...and they don't come near you.....same with the golf carts
I AM NOW A FREE WOMAN !!!! HEEEEE"

[Bogie Shooter]

Reclaimed water is used to irrigate our lawn also. New neighborhoods in Sumter use reclaimed water. Come smell it... YUCK!

What is the source of this statement?

[CFrance]

What is the source of this statement?
My nose and the guy who works on our irrigation. I realize that may not be overly definitive...

At the time I made that statement, I thought all water that wasn't potable was reclaimed. Our irrigation water is not potable. I could be wrong.

[cattywampus]

Did you read the announcement of the 466A construction? Are they behind schedule? Why the hurry?
Do a Google search on the the 466A east............it was $ the boys up in Tallahasse didn't see the need for dollars on road construction as they had to give money to corporate welfare!

What is the source of this statement ??????

[Chinook]

yes, at Costco the other day I talked to a manager in Altamont springs and he said they are getting swamped with requests to build a Costco near the villages, they are now looking a two sites near the villages, but we all need to keep our requests coming to Costco and TJ's.

[jwscp@aol.com]

I do not understand this. If Fruitland Park, The Villages is supposed to be more upscale, why aren't they building a championship golf course and more pools? Can someone explain this to me?

[joldnol]

pools and an executive course are being built....they will have easy access to bell
glade and bonifay and evans prairie are nearby

[dbussone]

What is the source of this statement?

Bogie - when you are driving around down here in the lower 40, you will see signs all over noting the use of "smart water" for irrigation. It is what I call gray water and is reclaimed. The signs are noticeable at the mail centers, pools, and rec centers.

[Bonanza]

It's a matter of supply and demand. People from 50 states and other countries want to buy a new home here, where it is proven fact that The Villages is unparalleled in getting things done--quickly, affordably, aesthetically, environmentally friendly, and solvently.

They use this thing called a "budget", too, which seems to be unknown to national elected officials. (See VCDD Office of Management and Budget (http://districtgov.org/departments/budget/budget.aspx) )

Ten thousand baby boomers are retiring daily. They have to live somewhere. It's their choice to live here. They won't need to spend $400+ per month for heating fuel as they would in Long Island, NY, Boston, Chicago, Milwaukee, Mpls, etc. and they will be able to go outdoors to walk and exercise every day, year round.

I say, "Welcome to T.L. -- The Living!"


No, no one will have to spend $400 for heating fuel. You are correct.

We only have to pay the same amount for electric, water, sewer, mantenance fee, lawn care and the almighty bond!

Same difference or perhaps even more! No one ever said it was inexpensive to live in The Villages.

[graciegirl]

boyhowdy.

[tomwed]

No, no one will have to spend $400 for heating fuel. You are correct.

We only have to pay the same amount for electric, water, sewer, mantenance fee, lawn care and the almighty bond!

Same difference or perhaps even more! No one ever said it was inexpensive to live in The Villages.

////////

[Wandatime]

Sarcasm aside, which is totally uncalled for, when we bought in The Villages in May, 2005 Sunset Pointe was the southernmost village. It astounds me that the building has gone so far south, which is remarkable. I do agree, however, that a HomeGoods, maybe a Cheesecake Factory or California Pizza Kitchen, would be nice. I do have my favorites in The Villages, but even that gets old. And now that my favorite clothing store has gone belly-up (Coldwater Creek), where to shop?? Petite sizes are very hard to find, and however much I love going to Belks, "variety is the spice of life." I did call HomeGoods headquarters and got a story about people/mile. Well, that was about 5 years ago. I think someone in their development departments needs to pay us a visit!!! Just my $.02. Oh, and why the survey every year if the above stores haven't been planning to build? A small mall with some variety and a nice "new" foodcourt--now that would be nice. Who's listening. . . .

I just got an email from Coldwater Creek, and they are back in business. Not a brick and mortar in The Villages yet, but maybe they'll come back. I love Coldwater Creek!

[graciegirl]

Sue Clark. The survey every year is to try to leverage those companies to come here. They can show them actual figures where residents requested those companies It is just like everyone else, those key people can't believe it. The growth is s rapid here, the statistics look misleading or inaccurate. Just like your friends, when they finally visit, after you told them and told them, and still they say....."THIS PLACE is so BIG!!!

[Barefoot]

It is just like everyone else, those key people can't believe it. The growth is s rapid here, the statistics look misleading or inaccurate. Just like your friends, when they finally visit, after you told them and told them, and still they say....."THIS PLACE is so BIG!!!

We had friends visit us last week, for the very first time.
We've been telling them about The Villages since we bought here in 2007.
Their comment was "We had no idea. The houses are so nice and this place is SO BIG!"
(Too bad the entertainment was cancelled due to inclement weather - that would really have blown their socks off).

[dbussone]

We had friends visit us last week, for the very first time.
We've been telling them about The Villages since we bought here in 2007.
Their comment was "We had no idea. The houses are so nice and this place is SO BIG!"
(Too bad the entertainment was cancelled due to inclement weather - that would really have blown their socks off).

Maybe you could find a YouTube link to send them?

[Bogie Shooter]

I do not understand this. If Fruitland Park, The Villages is supposed to be more upscale, why aren't they building a championship golf course and more pools? Can someone explain this to me?

Only if you explain upscale?
This old thread was just that an old thread.......................

[kcrazorbackfan]

I agree totally.... just what we need another freaking golf course and more crazy drivers in the round a bouts.

Hmm. Isn't golf what TV is all about? It might free up some tee time with a few more courses. What would you like to see in place of the round-a-bouts? Intersections with stop signs? That sure would be a cluster****.

[kcrazorbackfan]

I sure hope this means that the vacant land around Colony Plaza shopping center will fill in with a Denny's, a Wendy's, a Bob Evan's, and my husband is hoping for a Tilted Kilt! :a040:

.....or a Twin Peaks! :MOJE_whot::coolsmiley::MOJE_whot::coolsmiley:

[Villages Kahuna]

did i hear right ??? another 2000 homes??? that makes like 4000 more people..and 2000 more CARS!! insane..how about building a nice shopping mall with a jc penny and sears??? something useful!!!! this place will be a zoo...like we really need more homes????The bigger problem will be when all those people from all those new homes hop in their golf carts to go to Publix at Colony, or to LSL (a lot closer than Brownwood for them), or to get a cone at Peach Wave in the summer, or to go to a meeting or the pool at Colony Cottage Rec Center.

Can you imagine thousands of additional golf carts coming and going thru the tunnel under 466A next to Colony Cottage Rec Center, then lining up at the new stop light?

I've tried to think of an alternative 466A crossover for all those people and I can't see anyplace that is doable east of the Colony shopping center on the north side of 466A. All that property is private, with no golf cart or multi-modal lanes.

This will be interesting.

[mtdjed]

For those who think that the continued development of The Villages is not good, I would seriously suggest that you visit the development of East Silver Springs Shores about 15 miles northeast of The Villages. Price for land is low, traffic is not a problem, and all the infrastructure is in place. Think out of the box. Really, all Villagers should visit this nearby development to satisfy themselves that utopia is nearby.

Unfortunately, I am stuck in this mass of teeming humanity.

[Topspinmo]

Now that I come off Cloud 9 and realized I wasn't the last villager in! The villages attraction is the Free Golf, but, Golf really not free even though maybe 40% only plays golf if that (does someone know the real percentage?) .:popcorn:

I find the south side very crowded now. Other rec facilities are lacking IMO.
As for the business side. Lots of empty commercial space or land for development on campus. IMO the business model has to be something we retirees can't live without to be hit.

Only thing I find that I am getting gouged on are property taxes in the area I brought in. But I knew that before I brought and planned accordingly.

All in All I think most of use will complain Close the gates behind us, but few will move. I find new homes little (little?) overpriced, but some people can't live in resale. For me I happy where I'm at and occasionally venture way down south and complain about traffic, narrow streets, and all maniac golfers running from one tee time to another. :shocked:

[ROCKETMAN]

That is because.............that is WHO wants to rent them. YOU cannot make people rent there. One of our biggest problems is the "world" is not aware just what we are here. We have grown so quickly that the demographers are not keeping up with us.

My cousin spent his entire working career getting tenants to locate in malls. He is mostly retired but still keeps up with commercial property. He said the reason and it is mostly restaurants that have an issue, is that for a good part of the year the population fluctuates too much. If there were 105,000 people here 12 months, bit many times only half to three quarters of the residents are here. Can't open a business for jan.-march and after that its a crap shoot.,:)

[Cedwards38]

If you build it they will come................and they'll need stores and such to support them. Give it time.

[kstew43]

i heard that the villages developer has restrictions on who and what companys are allowed in the villages proper..... one business is the travel industry. the villages has an exclusive with one particular co and will not allow other companys in. the way to get around this issue is to buy or rent non villager owned land.

could that be the reason no homegoods, because kirklands have the exclusive? who knows?

[Average Guy]

i heard that the villages developer has restrictions on who and what companys are allowed in the villages proper..... one business is the travel industry. the villages has an exclusive with one particular co and will not allow other companys in. the way to get around this issue is to buy or rent non villager owned land.

could that be the reason no homegoods, because kirklands have the exclusive? who knows?

Is Kirkland's located on property owned by the developer?

[graciegirl]

If you build it they will come................and they'll need stores and such to support them. Give it time.

Very wise post indeed. I am sorry I yelled at you about Islamic Extremists..

[rdhdleo]

Why must every #$%^&* subject have to have politics dragged into it? Why!!!

I suppose if I came up with a new recipe to share, someone would manage to relate it back to our nation's leaders and what they're doing wrong.

:BigApplause: :agree:

[Bogie Shooter]

i heard that the villages developer has restrictions on who and what companys are allowed in the villages proper..... one business is the travel industry. the villages has an exclusive with one particular co and will not allow other companys in. the way to get around this issue is to buy or rent non villager owned land.

could that be the reason no homegoods, because kirklands have the exclusive? who knows?

Go ask the one that you heard it from......................

[NJblue]

The bigger problem will be when all those people from all those new homes hop in their golf carts to go to Publix at Colony, or to LSL (a lot closer than Brownwood for them), or to get a cone at Peach Wave in the summer, or to go to a meeting or the pool at Colony Cottage Rec Center.

Can you imagine thousands of additional golf carts coming and going thru the tunnel under 466A next to Colony Cottage Rec Center, then lining up at the new stop light?

I've tried to think of an alternative 466A crossover for all those people and I can't see anyplace that is doable east of the Colony shopping center on the north side of 466A. All that property is private, with no golf cart or multi-modal lanes.

This will be interesting.

Yup, that's what happens when a "planned" community expands beyond what was originally planned for. Not only will there be traffic problems in this area, but there will be an additional 4,000 people contending for the facilities at Colony Cottage and the nearby golf courses that were never planned for.

[happy employee]

Yup, that's what happens when a "planned" community expands beyond what was originally planned for. Not only will there be traffic problems in this area, but there will be an additional 4,000 people contending for the facilities at Colony Cottage and the nearby golf courses that were never planned for.

Where do you come up with "never planned for"? The original Orange Blossom Gardens was planned to be a 300 unit mobile home park. Are you saying that over 50,000 homes were "never planned for"

Designs and Land purchases have changed all throughout The Villages development. Or is this just a case of.....now I'm here, don't let anyone else come.............

[Bogie Shooter]

Yup, that's what happens when a "planned" community expands beyond what was originally planned for. Not only will there be traffic problems in this area, but there will be an additional 4,000 people contending for the facilities at Colony Cottage and the nearby golf courses that were never planned for.

Additional golf courses were included in the FP addition.

[Shimpy]

just what we need another freaking golf course and more crazy drivers in the round a bouts.
I agree. I would like to see TV give up a golf course and make all that land a beautiful park for residents with walking trails, lake with boat rentals, fishing and maybe a shooting and another archery range. I know a picnic area would also be popular. How many golf courses do we need? Notice all the walkers in your neighborhood. They would love to take a ride there and be able to walk through a natural habitat with trees, lakes, natural birds and wildlife. A dog walk would be very popular for many folks. Add a couple snack bars, maybe a Duncan Donuts and restaurants and it could be like a state park.

[Shimpy]

Let's see I'm not a mind reader or anything like that but I'll bet there will be some sort of eye place, a dry cleaner, a frozen yogurt place, a chiropractor, a nail salon.......you know......just like the other 5 strip malls we already have.


You forgot to mention Subway.

[asianthree]

As long as a retail store wants to pay rent to TV I don't see them telling anyone chain or mom and pop NO.

[Whalen]

Additional golf courses were included in the FP addition.

That's good news, I didn't know that.
Do you know which courses and where they will be located? I believe Volusia, Sarasota and a third, not sure of the name, were part of the original plan for the development below 466A.

[dirtbanker]

Let's hope the water holds up. Look what's happening in CA.

Adena Springs Ranch amended its permit application to 5.3 million gallons of water per day from the previous request for 13.26 million gallons per day...I am not worried about water usage from 2000 more homes.

[Mikeod]

That's good news, I didn't know that.
Do you know which courses and where they will be located? I believe Volusia, Sarasota and a third, not sure of the name, were part of the original plan for the development below 466A.
Escambia and Okeechobee are planned to start at the new rec center in the FP section. Should be opening, along with the Sarasota one in about a year.

[Bogie Shooter]

Thanks Mike.