Denham vs Dabney vs Moultrie

[BPRICE1234]

Looking at new homes. It appears that the Denham/Dabney is kind of bare as far as restaurants, golf, or any shopping? It looks like one maybe two pools for the whole area? How far to areas where you can get a beverage or dinner? Seems like a social desert.

Please help.

[Rainger99]

Looking at new homes. It appears that the Denham/Dabney is kind of bare as far as restaurants, golf, or any shopping? It looks like one maybe two pools for the whole area? How far to areas where you can get a beverage or dinner? Seems like a social desert.

Please help.

If you live in Lake Denham or Dabney, the nearest restaurant is at Sawgrass. There is a food court and a Scottish pub. The only golf is a pitch and putt.

If you live in Moultrie, you will be about five minutes from Eastport which will be the new town square. There are no restaurants in Eastport now but there will be a number of them in the next year or so. You will also be near Middleton where there will also be restaurants. And there are supposed to be several championship courses, at least four executive courses, and a pitch and putt course. There will also be a driving range.

I don't think the Villages plans on putting any additional amenities in Denham or Dabney. They appear to be focused on Eastport.

[frayedends]

We are 20 minutes to Eastport by cart from Lake Denham. We are 10 minutes to Sawgrass. 30 minutes to Brownwood. We have tons of walking/bike trails. Area across 470 from Dabney is likely to be commercial but I don’t think we will have a cart path across 470. We do lack neighborhood pools. Only Dabney. But we have Franklin, Homestead, and Ezell rec centers pretty close.

[Stu from NYC]

The retail establishments come when there are enough people to support them. Brownwood is over 10 years old and infrastructure still being built.

Before buying that way would spend a lot of time seeing what is there and if it will be ok with you to travel a distance for stores and restaurants.

[JRcorvette]

Why would you want to live down there?

[wisbad1]

If you live in Lake Denham or Dabney, the nearest restaurant is at Sawgrass. There is a food court and a Scottish pub. The only golf is a pitch and putt.

If you live in Moultrie, you will be about five minutes from Eastport which will be the new town square. There are no restaurants in Eastport now but there will be a number of them in the next year or so. You will also be near Middleton where there will also be restaurants. And there are supposed to be several championship courses, at least four executive courses, and a pitch and putt course. There will also be a driving range.

I don't think the Villages plans on putting any additional amenities in Denham or Dabney. They appear to be focused on Eastport.
7 championship courses? Did you bump your head? You’ll be lucky to get one.

[Altavia]

Area across 470 from Dabney is likely to be commercial but I don’t think we will have a cart path across 470.

...

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Given they completely relocated 470 via Central Parkway in Sumter County, one could imagine the possibility 470 could be rerouted/replaced in Lake County to take the dog leg out

No one anticipated Central Parkway would have GC tunnels and traffic calming features (curvres/roundabouts)..

So anything is possible for 470 over the next 5-10 years.

[tophcfa]

Expand your horizons, everything you appear to be looking for, and more, are available in other areas of the Villages.

[margaretmattson]

Looking at new homes. It appears that the Denham/Dabney is kind of bare as far as restaurants, golf, or any shopping? It looks like one maybe two pools for the whole area? How far to areas where you can get a beverage or dinner? Seems like a social desert.

Please help.If you notice something is not to your liking from the get go, it probably is not going to get better. Follow your gut and look for homes that meet your needs. New homes are nice but they STILL require expensive upgrades. (landscaping, paint, lanai etc) Why not look at older homes? Some are only six or seven yrs old and are located near plenty of commercial and golf courses. Try looking in the Brownwood area. You may find a home with completed landscaping, large lanai, and low bond. If the home needs a little TLC remember you would have paid for upgrades in a new home. Consider it a wash and be happy the home you chose meets ALL of your needs.

[MrChip72]

Looking at new homes. It appears that the Denham/Dabney is kind of bare as far as restaurants, golf, or any shopping? It looks like one maybe two pools for the whole area? How far to areas where you can get a beverage or dinner? Seems like a social desert.

Lake Denham and Dabney will always be social deserts. It's where the Villages ends in that direction. The developer owns some land past Dabney, but it's zoned for industrial, so not much help there.

Moultrie creek is a great location where there will be dining and activities 5 minutes away plus golf cart accessible shopping. Something that Dabney and Lake Denham will likely never have closeby.

[golfing eagles]

If you live in Lake Denham or Dabney, the nearest restaurant is at Sawgrass. There is a food court and a Scottish pub. The only golf is a pitch and putt.

If you live in Moultrie, you will be about five minutes from Eastport which will be the new town square. There are no restaurants in Eastport now but there will be a number of them in the next year or so. You will also be near Middleton where there will also be restaurants. And there are supposed to be several championship courses, at least four executive courses, and a pitch and putt course. There will also be a driving range.

I don't think the Villages plans on putting any additional amenities in Denham or Dabney. They appear to be focused on Eastport.

7 championship courses? Did you bump your head? You’ll be lucky to get one.

Last I knew, there was a difference between "several" and "seven":1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Normal]

Looking at new homes. It appears that the Denham/Dabney is kind of bare as far as restaurants, golf, or any shopping? It looks like one maybe two pools for the whole area? How far to areas where you can get a beverage or dinner? Seems like a social desert.

Please help.

By golf cart the answer is as you see it; yes Dabney and Lake Denham have little future for now. Now if you waited 10-15:years, The developer does own down to Honeycutt road in Lake county. How it may connect is way off into the future.

[Rainger99]

7 championship courses? Did you bump your head? You’ll be lucky to get one.

The word was several - not seven.

The dictionary defines several as more "than two but fewer than many."

According to this youtube video, there are going to be three championship courses in Eastport. They are Shallow Creek (18 holes); Woodlands (18 holes); and Meadow View (27 holes).

The information starts about the 4 minute mark.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vlb8mV0_VE4

[thelegges]

7 championship courses? Did you bump your head? You’ll be lucky to get one.

It’s 7 courses total, 3 named championship.
One exec is close to being playable by late spring. 2 more are very visible outline for one championship, and other could be an executive.

For some it’s hard to imagine what a course looks like in the beginning stages, for me I can see tee box areas, and where the greens will be. You would have to be almost blind not to see the all the water hazards, make a very challenging but great courses to play. So if you hit short, rug burn, or just hit them straight it will be great golf.

Oh there is a pitch and putt close to ready, not a fan, but looks like the entire area is water. So if you can pitch onto the green you will be good. If you roll off or hit long you will need another ball.

[Rainger99]

It’s 7 courses total, 3 named championship.
One exec is close to being playable by late spring. 2 more are very visible outline for one championship, and other could be an executive.

For some it’s hard to imagine what a course looks like in the beginning stages, for me I can see tee box areas, and where the greens will be. You would have to be almost blind not to see the all the water hazards, make a very challenging but great courses to play. So if you hit short, rug burn, or just hit them straight it will be great golf.

Oh there is a pitch and putt close to ready, not a fan, but looks like the entire area is water. So if you can pitch onto the green you will be good. If you roll off or hit long you will need another ball.

I spoke to one of the rangers the other day. He said that the executive by the bridge will have lots of water!! It may be cheaper to play the championship courses!

[thelegges]

I spoke to one of the rangers the other day. He said that the executive by the bridge will have lots of water!! It may be cheaper to play the championship courses!

Take a drive down, there is water everywhere, the championship has a fair amount, but the pitch & putt was probably a wise move. I don’t think they could have put anything else there, with all the water and looks to be couple of almost island greens.

It always is interesting to watch a new course from dirt to green, give you pause to think how long that process takes from paper, to dirt, to first round. Both my boys hit long, one straight one not so much, and plan is to take dozen extra first time they play south of the turnpike, when they saw all the water.

[Marathon Man]

I have several friends who re-located to that area and are very happy with their choice. "Close to things" is not important to everyone. "Out of the way" means less traffic and using your car more than a golf cart. If shopping, dining out, and golf will be a frequent activity for you, then I would consider other areas of TV. However, the areas that you mention have everything else plus some things that other areas do not offer. It's all about individual needs and wants. Best of luck. It's hard to make a bad choice.

[callalily]

I live in Lake Denham. I like the quiet compared to when I lived close to Sawgrass previously. The closest restaurants and shopping is in Lake Harris Square, which is 2 miles from the easternmost Dabney entry at the junction of 27 and 470. There's quite a few restaurants there. There's a Publix and an Aldi. To the north of Publix, there's an Ace hardware . The whole 27 corridor has lots of retail.

The developer should be putting in lots of retail on the other side of 470 in the next few years.

[frayedends]

Given they completely relocated 470 via Central Parkway in Sumter County, one could imagine the possibility 470 could be rerouted/replaced in Lake County to take the dog leg out

No one anticipated Central Parkway would have GC tunnels and traffic calming features (curvres/roundabouts)..

So anything is possible for 470 over the next 5-10 years.

Good point. They are also expanding 470 in that area to 4 lanes. That should be fairly soon. They could theoretically put in a cart tunnel at that point. That would tell us a lot for the future.

There’s a post saying weare a social desert? Really? We have so much to do in Lake Denham but can’t keep up when I’m there (part time for now). The block parties are awesome. The people are awesome and all looking for social interaction. We are at boozy bingo every Monday. We have social clubs with regular events at Franklin. We may be a little out of the way but not very far from tons of restaurants and shopping. I can only guess what hat the folks that think we are isolated grew up right in big cities. It’s a different mindset. Totally an individual preference.

But I will warn you, the turnpike noise is loud at times. I assume I’ll get used to it. I lived next to Logan airport in East Boston for years and never noticed the plane noise.

[Normal]

Keep in mind if you are considering Dabney and Lake Denham, it will be quite a haul to get to Eastport and Brownwood by golf cart. A crossing of the turnpike at 470 for golf carts has zero possibility because there has to be an entrance and exit from 470 onto and off of the turnpike. Semi tractor trailers are permitted to use the ramps as well as regular automobiles. Commercial goods use the entrance to supply Leesburg and other areas; it isn’t just a Villages area. But, if golf cart transportation is your thing, Moultrie Creek has a lot to offer, otherwise count on a car to do most things.

[Altavia]

Keep in mind if you are considering Dabney and Lake Denham, it will be quite a haul to get to Eastport and Brownwood by golf cart. A crossing of the turnpike at 470 for golf carts has zero possibility because there has to be an entrance and exit from 470 onto and off of the turnpike.

...

.

Stay tuned, there are some really "creative" interchanges along the Turnpike.

The Engineers have a blank sheet to work with at 470, including the possibility of moving the location of the interchange further south.

If you look at overpasses under construction for the Turnpike Expansion south, several have pedestrian crossings and even a wide trail crossing.

Apparently they changed their mind after not permitting a pedestrian walkway across the Waterlilly Bridge.

[J-E-T-S !]

Keep in mind if you are considering Dabney and Lake Denham, it will be quite a haul to get to Eastport and Brownwood by golf cart. A crossing of the turnpike at 470 for golf carts has zero possibility because there has to be an entrance and exit from 470 onto and off of the turnpike. Semi tractor trailers are permitted to use the ramps as well as regular automobiles. Commercial goods use the entrance to supply Leesburg and other areas; it isn’t just a Villages area. But, if golf cart transportation is your thing, Moultrie Creek has a lot to offer, otherwise count on a car to do most things.

Quite the haul? I live in Lake Denham. 15 minutes to east port in golf cart. 6 minutes to sawgrass. At least 5 pools within 6 minutes. 30 minutes to Brownwood. 2 minutes to Turnpike in car. Moultrie creek I’m sure will be nice also but will be slightly more crowded and expensive.

[Normal]

Stay tuned, there are some really "creative" interchanges along the Turnpike.

The Engineers have a blank sheet to work with at 470, including the possibility of moving the location of the interchange further south.

If you look at overpasses under construction for the Turnpike Expansion south, several have pedestrian crossings and even a wide trail crossing.

Apparently they changed their mind after not permitting a pedestrian walkway across the Waterlilly Bridge.

You can hope, but what possible advantage would there be except for those who want to cross there. The Developer is building a commercial space immediately next to the turnpike and 470 pocket which involves more than just Villagers shopping there. The turnpike is the easy on off for prospects other than Villagers. Tavares will decide most things I’m sure. Right now they are lockstep against traffic circles for some reason? It would be an interesting problem to work out.

[LeRoySmith]

A crossing of the turnpike at 470 for golf carts has zero possibility because there has to be an entrance and exit from 470 onto and off of the turnpike.

How about a friendly wager on no cart crossing near 470?

I'd propose my 1 beer to your 6 by the end of 2027.... I wonder if either of us will live that long?

[Altavia]

You can hope, but what possible advantage would there be except for those who want to cross there. The Developer is building a commercial space immediately next to the turnpike and 470 pocket which involves more than just Villagers shopping there. The turnpike is the easy on off for prospects other than Villagers. Tavares will decide most things I’m sure. Right now they are lockstep against traffic circles for some reason? It would be an interesting problem to work out.

I'm not "hoping", just identifying possibilities, especially when the state is throwing billions at roads near a developer who is very well connected economically and politically.

Not many imagined tunnels under 470 but the went and relocated the entire road.

There is a traffic circle in Tavares right in front of the Lake County Administration building so I'm not sure where that rumor comes from. They are probably drooling at the future tax review coming their way ;-)

But all that is at least 5-10 years in the future, nothing is for sure until permits are approved.

[Nell57]

Given they completely relocated 470 via Central Parkway in Sumter County, one could imagine the possibility 470 could be rerouted/replaced in Lake County to take the dog leg out

No one anticipated Central Parkway would have GC tunnels and traffic calming features (curvres/roundabouts)..

So anything is possible for 470 over the next 5-10 years.

Do you really want to wait 10 years to see what might happen?
Make a list of what amenities and features are important to you.
Then choose your residential location. If it’s on a map published by the Villages, then it will probably happen.
If it’s not even mapped out don’t count on it.

[kingofbeer]

Looking at new homes. It appears that the Denham/Dabney is kind of bare as far as restaurants, golf, or any shopping? It looks like one maybe two pools for the whole area? How far to areas where you can get a beverage or dinner? Seems like a social desert.

Please help.
There are no restaurants, no doctors, no shopping in these areas.

[Normal]

There are no restaurants, no doctors, no shopping in these areas.

There are by car, you just don’t have the golf cart lifestyle per say.

[graciegirl]

The retail establishments come when there are enough people to support them. Brownwood is over 10 years old and infrastructure still being built.

Before buying that way would spend a lot of time seeing what is there and if it will be ok with you to travel a distance for stores and restaurants.

I absolutely agree. It will come. They built it. Just wait and see and someday soon the writer will be explaining this to Newbies. Yup.

[frayedends]

How about a friendly wager on no cart crossing near 470?

I'd propose my 1 beer to your 6 by the end of 2027.... I wonder if either of us will live that long?

Count me in. I’m only 54. I will live long enough (knock on wood) to collect all beers.

[Papa_lecki]

I'm not "hoping", just identifying possibilities, especially when the state is throwing billions at roads near a developer who is very well connected economically and politically.

There absolutely will be golf carts crossing the turnpike at 470.
It has nothing to do what the developer being connected politically, it’s good for the state.
The Villages produces an enormous economic benefit to central florida.

[Normal]

There absolutely will be golf carts crossing the turnpike at 470.
It has nothing to do what the developer being connected politically, it’s good for the state.
The Villages produces an enormous economic benefit to central florida.

From the engineering standpoint, exactly how will this be constructed? Will the bridge go over the entrance ramp and exit ramp? Those ramps have to accommodate tractor trailers and oversized loads of course. It would be something never built before and will be quite expensive. It wouldn’t be a Bexley cattle bridge idea for sure. You are looking at up to 4 times the cost and a feasibility study. If, big if, it would be at least 5-10 years out. Please cite your reasoning for us all. FDOT doesn’t even have a study yet.
FDOT Project Information (https://www.fdot.gov/agencyresources/projects.shtm)

[Altavia]

From the engineering standpoint, exactly how will this be constructed? Will the bridge go over the entrance ramp and exit ramp? Those ramps have to accommodate tractor trailers and oversized loads of course. It would be something never built before and will be quite expensive. It wouldn’t be a Bexley cattle bridge idea for sure. You are looking at up to 4 times the cost and a feasibility study. If, big if, it would be at least 5-10 years out. Please cite your reasoning for us all. FDOT doesn’t even have a study yet.
FDOT Project Information (https://www.fdot.gov/agencyresources/projects.shtm)


https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-non-villages-discussion-93/turnpike-widening-us27-i75-349261/

[Normal]

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-non-villages-discussion-93/turnpike-widening-us27-i75-349261/

Sure, we all know the turnpike is getting widened, I was referring to the crossing structure over the state owned turnpike. The study for the county road 470 bridge and it’s widening along with the supposed multimodal path isn’t in the state records. I found the study for the Bexley bridge, but not for the 470 idea. Surely the unprecedented massive structure will have one.

[MrChip72]

There absolutely will be golf carts crossing the turnpike at 470.
It has nothing to do what the developer being connected politically, it’s good for the state.
The Villages produces an enormous economic benefit to central florida.

It's illegal to drive golf carts on a county road.

[MrChip72]

From the engineering standpoint, exactly how will this be constructed? Will the bridge go over the entrance ramp and exit ramp? Those ramps have to accommodate tractor trailers and oversized loads of course. It would be something never built before and will be quite expensive. It wouldn’t be a Bexley cattle bridge idea for sure. You are looking at up to 4 times the cost and a feasibility study. If, big if, it would be at least 5-10 years out. Please cite your reasoning for us all. FDOT doesn’t even have a study yet.
FDOT Project Information (https://www.fdot.gov/agencyresources/projects.shtm)

I agree that it's not feasible to add a bridge incorporating MMPs at that location. Besides, who would pay for the MMP from the Dabney side when those residents have already been issued their bond amount to cover all planned infrastructure. I don't see the developer issuing a special assessment bond to Dabney residents on top of their current bond. Those homes would drop even lower in value if that were to occur.

All new development will be going north-south, so just a handful of tunnels under 470 should handle connectivity for the new homes to the rest of TV. I doubt anyone in villages like Waters Edge will be complaining that there's no turnpike bridge to Dabney.

[JMintzer]

Last I knew, there was a difference between "several" and "seven":1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Yup. And considering one is about to open this summer and a 2nd one is currently under construction, one has to wonder about any current head injuries to the other poster...

[Shipping up to Boston]

Good point. They are also expanding 470 in that area to 4 lanes. That should be fairly soon. They could theoretically put in a cart tunnel at that point. That would tell us a lot for the future.

There’s a post saying weare a social desert? Really? We have so much to do in Lake Denham but can’t keep up when I’m there (part time for now). The block parties are awesome. The people are awesome and all looking for social interaction. We are at boozy bingo every Monday. We have social clubs with regular events at Franklin. We may be a little out of the way but not very far from tons of restaurants and shopping. I can only guess what hat the folks that think we are isolated grew up right in big cities. It’s a different mindset. Totally an individual preference.

But I will warn you, the turnpike noise is loud at times. I assume I’ll get used to it. I lived next to Logan airport in East Boston for years and never noticed the plane noise.

You noticed Santarpios though I'm sure! (Insider joke)

[Altavia]

Sure, we all know the turnpike is getting widened, I was referring to the crossing structure over the state owned turnpike. The study for the county road 470 bridge and it’s widening along with the supposed multimodal path isn’t in the state records. I found the study for the Bexley bridge, but not for the 470 idea. Surely the unprecedented massive structure will have one.

Because design work is just starting...

The 470 bridge is not wide enough to add 4 new lanes so required replacement.

Interchange design budget for 470 was approved early this year, design phase will start this year.


WIDEN TURNPIKE MAINLINE/SR 91
FROM US 27 TO CR 470
Work includes pavement widening, milling and resurfacing, maintenance of traffic plan, new stormwater treatment facilities, new bridge structures, new ramp, tolling sites, signing, pavement marking improvements, signals, lighting, communications, and right-of-way acquisition.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/2321360-post2.html

[BubblesandPat]

If you notice something is not to your liking from the get go, it probably is not going to get better. Follow your gut and look for homes that meet your needs. New homes are nice but they STILL require expensive upgrades. (landscaping, paint, lanai etc) Why not look at older homes? Some are only six or seven yrs old and are located near plenty of commercial and golf courses. Try looking in the Brownwood area. You may find a home with completed landscaping, large lanai, and low bond. If the home needs a little TLC remember you would have paid for upgrades in a new home. Consider it a wash and be happy the home you chose meets ALL of your needs.

I agree. We bought a 2 year old home in Citrus Grove. You don't have to buy brand new to get a newer home!

[DrMack]

I agree that it's not feasible to add a bridge incorporating MMPs at that location. Besides, who would pay for the MMP from the Dabney side when those residents have already been issued their bond amount to cover all planned infrastructure. I don't see the developer issuing a special assessment bond to Dabney residents on top of their current bond. Those homes would drop even lower in value if that were to occur.

All new development will be going north-south, so just a handful of tunnels under 470 should handle connectivity for the new homes to the rest of TV. I doubt anyone in villages like Waters Edge will be complaining that there's no turnpike bridge to Dabney.

I agree there won’t be a bridge for golf carts because of the 2 entrances and exits, but what about a tunnel? Unfortunately we are in Dabney, it was a poor choice. But, a connection could improve things a lot.

[frayedends]

You noticed Santarpios though I'm sure! (Insider joke)

If only I could get that pizza in Florida. It’s the best.

[Rwirish]

The entire area is suffering from the lack of amenities.

Eastport will have more but it is not a “town square.” Both Championship and Executive golf will remain inadequate for the number of residents in the area.

[Snakster66]

I agree there won’t be a bridge for golf carts because of the 2 entrances and exits, but what about a tunnel? Unfortunately we are in Dabney, it was a poor choice. But, a connection could improve things a lot.

Could you elaborate why Dabney was a poor choice? Is it just proximity to things by golf cart? Or are there other factors that make it a poor choice?

[MikeN]

When we bought last year we went to a sales office and were swarmed by sales people. They showed us what the villages wanted them to show us. Do yourself a favor and get a realtor, tell them what you want and let them direct you. This is why do many people end up buying at another location after being here a year or two

[BostonTom]

I would wait just little while and across the street from Richmond houses are going to be built. Two minutes to Brownwood Square and supermarket. Also resale would be better. LOCATION LOCATION.

[mwpoet]

Expand your horizons, everything you appear to be looking for, and more, are available in other areas of the Villages.

I have lived all over the villages and I would not do the south as there is so little there and so much driving. I did 300 miles a week then moved north of 466A. If you are young you can wait for the amenities. I love having 4 pools, shopping, and many golf courses nearby in Duval!

[R&J in NJ]

Don't eliminate a resale home in your search. Better locations and the resale homes have smaller bond amounts. Most gently used homes have additional add ons such as crown molding or enhanced landscaping. Things that you would likely add anyway.

[jim@jedward.com]

Definitely Moultrie. In addition to the other reasons already stated, Moultrie is in Sumter County and has lower taxes. Dabney and Denham are in Lake County.

On a new construction $400000 house the estimated taxes are $6070 in Dabney/Denham and $5360 in Moultrie. Source: Lake and Sumter County estimated tax calculators.

[jim@jedward.com]

Remember the further north you purchase you may have to deal with buying a new roof, windows, HVAC and appliances.

[thelegges]

I would wait just little while and across the street from Richmond houses are going to be built. Two minutes to Brownwood Square and supermarket. Also resale would be better. LOCATION LOCATION.

Good luck with Richmond East. There are more than a hundred plus names on VLS’s waitlist. Very few homes will ever hit the website, just like Richmond. I know we tried for 17 sometimes we were #5 twice but the rest #30 and up. If you wanted those houses you needed to be on your VLS list 8 months ago. Then if you get #1 and not a fan of the house or the lot, don’t turn it down it may be your only chance

[BrianL99]

Quite the haul? I live in Lake Denham. 15 minutes to east port in golf cart. 6 minutes to sawgrass. At least 5 pools within 6 minutes. 30 minutes to Brownwood. 2 minutes to Turnpike in car. Moultrie creek I’m sure will be nice also but will be slightly more crowded and expensive.

Eastport doesn't exist and Sawgrass is well ... just about nothing.

Folks don't seem to understand, that the Developer's business model has changed significantly. The Demographic is changing. Being close to everything doesn't matter so much when you're 55, when you're 70 it's another ball game. At 55, you have "time" to waste ... not so much, 15 years later.

All those folks living on the outskirts of The Villages, are going to be looking to move North when they get a little older.

[Laker14]

Looking at new homes. It appears that the Denham/Dabney is kind of bare as far as restaurants, golf, or any shopping? It looks like one maybe two pools for the whole area? How far to areas where you can get a beverage or dinner? Seems like a social desert.

Please help.

Sounds perfect if you want to live in a frontier town.

However, if you'd like to live somewhere in proximity (golf cart proximity) to the town squares, (not the mall food court at Sawgrass), several championship golf courses, a couple dozen or so executive courses, more pools, pickleball courts, and rec centers than you need, look north of 44, and make sure you check out "between the sixes" (between 466 and 466A)...
Don't be afraid of looking at older homes. There are plenty to choose from now, and they are solid, and the neighborhoods are mature with landscaping.

At least check a few out, drive a golf cart around from rec center to rec center, pool to pool, golf course to golf course. If the ambience isn't for you, it isn't for you. But if you have any concern that the new areas are a "social desert", you might really like the vibe in the older neighborhoods.

[Marathon Man]

I have lived all over the villages and I would not do the south as there is so little there and so much driving. I did 300 miles a week then moved north of 466A. If you are young you can wait for the amenities. I love having 4 pools, shopping, and many golf courses nearby in Duval!

The myth that will not die. Plenty of amenities south of 44. The only thing lagging behind is golf. And there are several courses being built right now.

[wayneman]

Taxes, Taxes, Taxes.

[Gwenjap]

We live in Lake Denham. We are 12 minutes to Publix and Winn Dixie by car. I wouldn’t be taking my golf cart grocery shopping anyway.

[callalily]

The bond is $7000 higher in Moultrie Creek.

Definitely Moultrie. In addition to the other reasons already stated, Moultrie is in Sumter County and has lower taxes. Dabney and Denham are in Lake County.

On a new construction $400000 house the estimated taxes are $6070 in Dabney/Denham and $5360 in Moultrie. Source: Lake and Sumter County estimated tax calculators.

[Normal]

The bond is $7000 higher in Moultrie Creek.

Definitely Moultrie. In addition to the other reasons already stated, Moultrie is in Sumter County and has lower taxes. Dabney and Denham are in Lake County.

On a new construction $400000 house the estimated taxes are $6070 in Dabney/Denham and $5360 in Moultrie. Source: Lake and Sumter County estimated tax calculators.

In ten years, the excess bond payment is recouped. It’s a no brainer.

If you could, Citrus Grove or St. Catherine might be your best bet for newer. That way you would have Eastport and Sawgrass with lots of golf? More is/has become golf cart accessible, the landscaping is maturing and things are settling. I believe the area south of 91 will be a dust bowl for some time. After all, it’s all about golf cart accessibility to everything. Dabney and Denham are the desert sort to speak.

Sawgrass can be your temporary entertainment till Eastport is complete.

[Ducatigator]

Good morning. It is a beautiful day!. I love watching all the banter back and forth. Just live in the Villages. Who cares. There is always a struggle on these chats between South and North. Bottom line, it is one big, beautiful community. People outside the bubble have a lot more problems than we do. I live south and I love it. Everyone there is new and moving in. Block parties, dinners, pool parties... everyone is interacting. Everyone is super friendly. No groups to "break" into. South requires "patience" if you have it, then you will love it, especially what's to come. If you don't, well then move north of 44.

Now, down South specifically which was your original question.. Denham/dabney is on the very tail end of construction. Moultrie Creek, the fun has just begun. Dabney to Eastport is literally 18 minutes by golf cart. Do it all the time. Sawgrass 10 minutes. Brownwood 28 minutes. Eastport WILL be a town square, so if you want to be within walking distance or a short 5 minute gold cart ride move to Moutrie Creek. If you don't mind a few minutes on golf cart and not deal with construction, then Dabney/Denham. It's all about YOU. Don't worry about what other people say. Some people hate change, some take it on. Only you can decide what you want/like. I personally like the social aspect more down South. And I love driving my cart north. I don't really care how much time it takes. And I work full time. It's why I moved here. To enjoy our bubble life, stop and smell the roses attitude. Good luck. No matter what, you are lucky to be here like the rest of us. Enjoy the journey.

[thelegges]

In ten years, the excess bond payment is recouped. It’s a no brainer.

If you could, Citrus Grove or St. Catherine might be your best bet for newer. That way you would have Eastport and Sawgrass with lots of golf? More is/has become golf cart accessible, the landscaping is maturing and things are settling. I believe the area south of 91 will be a dust bowl for some time. After all, it’s all about golf cart accessibility to everything. Dabney and Denham are the desert sort to speak.

Sawgrass can be your temporary entertainment till Eastport is complete.

Dust bowl has existed since the dawn of TV, or in any new community being built. In 2010 Pennacamp new house with sand and dirt for over a year. I thought the new house didn’t get builder cleaned. They returned, one week later had the same sand and dirt sifting thru the screens. So not the cleaner

2012 Fernandina our house for 14 months was the same dirt air.

2022, dirt bowl for only a few months since we were close to the last build house.

So in 12 years developers haven’t found a way to curb air, with sand and dirt particles. Some days you can actually watch the dirt moving across the area, for miles

[Normal]

Dust bowl has existed since the dawn of TV, or in any new community being built. In 2010 Pennacamp new house with sand and dirt for over a year. I thought the new house didn’t get builder cleaned. They returned, one week later had the same sand and dirt sifting thru the screens. So not the cleaner

2012 Fernandina our house for 14 months was the same dirt air.

2022, dirt bowl for only a few months since we were close to the last build house.

So in 12 years developers haven’t found a way to curb air, with sand and dirt particles. Some days you can actually watch the dirt moving across the area, for miles

True, if the top soil is exposed, it blows.

[JanRoberts]

Looking at new homes. It appears that the Denham/Dabney is kind of bare as far as restaurants, golf, or any shopping? It looks like one maybe two pools for the whole area? How far to areas where you can get a beverage or dinner? Seems like a social desert.

Please help.

My husband and I just moved from Tallahassee so this was easy for us, but we came down 4 weekends and rented a golf cart and tooled around looking at everything to see what we most enjoyed and how easy it was to get there. Then we gave a list to our realtor of our top 9 villages and top 4 models (excluding our fave one that wasn't being built in the areas we loved) and told her we'd look at any combinations that had at least a village or home towards the top of our lists. We wanted location over home and wanted to move asap (day after we retired!) we were so anxious to get here. Anyway, I recommend doing something along those lines if it's feasible for you so you get a real feel for what you like since everyone's different........ you say tomato, I say Bloody Mary! 😁

[MSGirl]

If you live in Lake Denham or Dabney, the nearest restaurant is at Sawgrass. There is a food court and a Scottish pub. The only golf is a pitch and putt.

If you live in Moultrie, you will be about five minutes from Eastport which will be the new town square. There are no restaurants in Eastport now but there will be a number of them in the next year or so. You will also be near Middleton where there will also be restaurants. And there are supposed to be several championship courses, at least four executive courses, and a pitch and putt course. There will also be a driving range.

I don't think the Villages plans on putting any additional amenities in Denham or Dabney. They appear to be focused on Eastport.

Don’t bet on ANY new restaurants and shops being available in the next year! I would give it at least 5 years. It’s taken Brownwood 10 years to be where it’s at today. And Magnolia Plaza was about 5 or more years before Publix opened.
If you want new, that’s where you need to be. But don’t expect amenities in the areas for years.

[DrHitch]

The Villages has announced plans for one championship course and four executive courses (named)....but none of them are scheduled for opening dates.

[Laker14]

It's not just about how long it takes to drive a cart from A to B, it's also about the quality of that drive. Take the cart ride from Sawgrass to Edna's, and from Sea Breeze to Lake Sumter, and from wherever you are considering to the most likely destinations you will be having and see, and feel and smell what you most enjoy.

I love where I am. I really enjoy the rides to the places I go. It's a big part of life here in TV. Make a small investment of your time to get the feel of a few different areas before you make up your mind and I think you'll be well rewarded for the effort.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Dust bowl has existed since the dawn of TV, or in any new community being built. In 2010 Pennacamp new house with sand and dirt for over a year. I thought the new house didn’t get builder cleaned. They returned, one week later had the same sand and dirt sifting thru the screens. So not the cleaner

2012 Fernandina our house for 14 months was the same dirt air.

2022, dirt bowl for only a few months since we were close to the last build house.

So in 12 years developers haven’t found a way to curb air, with sand and dirt particles. Some days you can actually watch the dirt moving across the area, for miles

Not a Villages specific issue. Such is most construction sites....except the ones that have a fleet of water trucks spraying down problem areas. When they finally max out all available land for development, infrastructure etc (not complaining)....then the dust will settle. By then, we'll all be dust as well!

[WYgladiator]

We have a home in Lake Denham. I will admit a few more amenities would have been nice (i.e. restaurants, a gas station etc), but where it lacks in these areas it more than makes up for it in bike and walking trails. But most importantly to us was bring surrounded by neighbors that were all "new" to the area, which we felt would help in making new friends to enjoy the area with. We have not been disappointed yet. But if golf is your primary source of entertainment, looking elsewhere would be recommended. Best of luck in your search.

[JMintzer]

Remember the further north you purchase you may have to deal with buying a new roof, windows, HVAC and appliances.

Many of which have already been recently replaced...

[mikemalloy]

We are 20 minutes to Eastport by cart from Lake Denham. We are 10 minutes to Sawgrass. 30 minutes to Brownwood. We have tons of walking/bike trails. Area across 470 from Dabney is likely to be commercial but I don’t think we will have a cart path across 470. We do lack neighborhood pools. Only Dabney. But we have Franklin, Homestead, and Ezell rec centers pretty close.
Just curious, where do you go to get a quart of milk?

[JMintzer]

The Villages has announced plans for one championship course and four executive courses (named)....but none of them are scheduled for opening dates.

Not even close to being correct...

[LeRoySmith]

Just curious, where do you go to get a quart of milk?

I live in Lake Denham, we have 4 options we use for quickie things like bread or milk (or beer).

The 2 stores at the intersection of 27 and 470 is 4 miles, 9 minutes. (This is the one I tend to use most as there are several other businesses in the area and I try to do multiple things in a single trip, the Ace here knows me by name....)
The Publix on 44 is 8 miles 17 minutes.
The Publix at Warm Springs is 7 miles 15 minutes (if I go by cart or bike this is the one I choose but I don't like to shop on a bike or cart).
Neighborhood Market on 466a is 10 miles 21 minutes (This is my preference but I find I don't go north very often unless its just out messing around).

There is a gas station at the intersection of 33 and 470 that is only a few minutes away but I avoid it, pretty sketchy at times.

[coleprice]

Looking at new homes. It appears that the Denham/Dabney is kind of bare as far as restaurants, golf, or any shopping? It looks like one maybe two pools for the whole area? How far to areas where you can get a beverage or dinner? Seems like a social desert.

Please help.

Golfers shopping for homes in The Villages should NOT purchase a New Home in the Southern Areas, which lack enough Executive Golf Courses. Rather, they should buy a pre-owned home in the Middle or Northern areas which have plenty of Executive golf courses nearby. Also, the Bond is usually paid off on homes in the North and middle areas, plus you are MUCH CLOSER to Shopping & Restaurants.

[revfiddle]

3 miles left on 470 to Rt. 27 there are several restaurants, a Winn Dixie and a Publix. (My favorites are the Somkehouse and the Seafood restaurants.) There's also an ACE hardware, Dollar general, a car wash, and a Dollar General. Several fast foods and on and on. You're less than a mile to the turnpike. I like going to Costco- about a 25 minute drive. That's plenty of retail for me.

[frayedends]

Just curious, where do you go to get a quart of milk?

Answered above. No shortage of places to buy milk and any other grocery, beer, wine, anything really. I’m also betting the small vacant lot area at the end of Dabney where Chandler meets 470 will be a gas station. Already a cart path leading into it. They may even sell milk. Wouldn’t. Want my lactose levels to get too low.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Answered above. No shortage of places to buy milk and any other grocery, beer, wine, anything really. I’m also betting the small vacant lot area at the end of Dabney where Chandler meets 470 will be a gas station. Already a cart path leading into it. They may even sell milk. Wouldn’t. Want my lactose levels to get too low.

Im guessing the 'ameneties' that have been mentioned here escaped the glossy sales brochures at the printing deadline! ;)

[LoisR]

Go north. Plenty of golf, shopping, med offices, etc.

[roguesearcher]

That doesn't sound bad at all. Actually it sounds very normal!

[frayedends]

Im guessing the 'ameneties' that have been mentioned here escaped the glossy sales brochures at the printing deadline! ;)

I have asked in a lot of these threads, what amenities I am missing in Lake Denham. I don't golf so I'm not concerned about that, but it seems the only thing that perhaps we don't have much of. I'm interested in trying a pitch and putt and/or putting course. I will feel less intimidated to try these since I'm not yet a golfer.

But apart from that I just don't know what I'm missing. We have rec centers, with the usual stuff, pools, clubs, etc. As far as restaurants, we are close enough to Brownwood and Lake Sumter for me. I don't plan on eating out 5 nights a week and the golf cart ride is fun. I make an afternoon of it, ride up to a square, do some shopping, have some drinks, dinner, watch the band, head home. 30 minutes isn't a long ride to do that.

I'll tell ya, I drove up around the Spanish Springs area with all the shopping (forget which road it was but a very large divided road) and I wouldn't want to live near there in a million years. It reminded me of Route 1 in Saugus. Yikes.

[LeRoySmith]

I have asked in a lot of these threads, what amenities I am missing in Lake Denham. I don't golf so I'm not concerned about that, but it seems the only thing that perhaps we don't have much of. I'm interested in trying a pitch and putt and/or putting course. I will feel less intimidated to try these since I'm not yet a golfer.

But apart from that I just don't know what I'm missing. We have rec centers, with the usual stuff, pools, clubs, etc. As far as restaurants, we are close enough to Brownwood and Lake Sumter for me. I don't plan on eating out 5 nights a week and the golf cart ride is fun. I make an afternoon of it, ride up to a square, do some shopping, have some drinks, dinner, watch the band, head home. 30 minutes isn't a long ride to do that.

I'll tell ya, I drove up around the Spanish Springs area with all the shopping (forget which road it was but a very large divided road) and I wouldn't want to live near there in a million years. It reminded me of Route 1 in Saugus. Yikes.

We spent a lot of time researching and spending time in each of the areas, in the end it was Lake Denham or the Enclave for us. We decided to be snowflakes for a few years so Lake Denham won out based on costs.

There's no doubt that different areas have benefits and downfalls, all based on personal preferences. The north has great mature landscaping but not much else we found attractive. The center is a nice blend of newer houses and somewhat mature landscaping but much like the north its too crowded, too busy and close. In the south you have longer drive times and may have highway noise in some places but we found everything else about it preferable. I'd guess for every different person that went through the same exercise they'd have as many unique experiences.

We have a new house on a dead end that backs up to the swamp so its very peaceful, new pool laid out just as we like, new landscaping we picked out, miles of walking paths, picking the color of paint inside and out, neighbors of like mind etc. We enjoy it very much. That said, we have higher bond, higher taxes, you might hear highway noise if you're outside and the wind is just right.

To each his own and I hope everyone is as happy with what they picked as we are.

[Shipping up to Boston]

I have asked in a lot of these threads, what amenities I am missing in Lake Denham. I don't golf so I'm not concerned about that, but it seems the only thing that perhaps we don't have much of. I'm interested in trying a pitch and putt and/or putting course. I will feel less intimidated to try these since I'm not yet a golfer.

But apart from that I just don't know what I'm missing. We have rec centers, with the usual stuff, pools, clubs, etc. As far as restaurants, we are close enough to Brownwood and Lake Sumter for me. I don't plan on eating out 5 nights a week and the golf cart ride is fun. I make an afternoon of it, ride up to a square, do some shopping, have some drinks, dinner, watch the band, head home. 30 minutes isn't a long ride to do that.

I'll tell ya, I drove up around the Spanish Springs area with all the shopping (forget which road it was but a very large divided road) and I wouldn't want to live near there in a million years. It reminded me of Route 1 in Saugus. Yikes.

A little sarcasm in my post....when you mentioned gas stations for milk etc. Everything else I actually agree with you and LeRoy. Except Route 1 in Saugus....that’s part of the lore on that stretch!

[frayedends]

A little sarcasm in my post....when you mentioned gas stations for milk etc. Everything else I actually agree with you and LeRoy. Except Route 1 in Saugus....that’s part of the lore on that stretch!

Route 1 was always a bit congested, but man, the last time I was there, maybe 5 years ago, it was brutal. Could not move at all. And with the dinosaur and plastic cows gone, what's to see? Is the Leaning Tower still there, I have no idea? Heck even Kowloon is slated to close soon.

We are, I guess it's called, snowflakes. In the colder months I'd say the turnpike noise can be a real problem in Lake Denham. I know LeRoy said it's intermittent. But we heard it inside more than a few times. But my wife was just down this week and it was only noticeable early in the morning. I think the warm humid air helps a lot.

I agree with LeRoy a lot too on walking trails, and nature. It's more of what we are looking for. I was so excited when our alligator moved into the pond behind my house. :D

[pokeefe45@aol.com]

Keep in mind if you are considering Dabney and Lake Denham, it will be quite a haul to get to Eastport and Brownwood by golf cart. A crossing of the turnpike at 470 for golf carts has zero possibility because there has to be an entrance and exit from 470 onto and off of the turnpike. Semi tractor trailers are permitted to use the ramps as well as regular automobiles. Commercial goods use the entrance to supply Leesburg and other areas; it isn’t just a Villages area. But, if golf cart transportation is your thing, Moultrie Creek has a lot to offer, otherwise count on a car to do most things.
I think 'zero possibility' might become a 100% possibility soon. I'm expecting the golf cart bridge across the turnpike at 470 to be announced soon-maybe as soon as Tuesday at the 'Night with the Developers' being held at the Sharon. I am told it will be a golf cart only bridge-one 'pre-fabbed' off site, similar to the Chitty Chatty and Water Lily bridges. Those went up pretty quick. Wouldn't involve relocating turnpike exits at all-it would be just north of the entrances/exits. If you walk back in that area-you will see the surveying already being done-and the 'walking path' behind the southern most villas already graded to be easily expanded into a 'multi modal'. Makes Eastport a 10 minute car ride and 15 minute golf cart ride away, and puts Middleton just as close (access down Landstone Boulevard-the 'back' way). I live in Lake Denham-and this is exactly why I bought there. All this in one year-not 5 or 10. One of us is probably wrong, and one of us is probably right-Betting we'll find out soon!

[MrChip72]

I think 'zero possibility' might become a 100% possibility soon. I'm expecting the golf cart bridge across the turnpike at 470 to be announced soon-maybe as soon as Tuesday at the 'Night with the Developers' being held at the Sharon.

Why would they build a bridge after the fact that would cost $10M+ just to make two poorly located villages have easier access to Eastport?


I am told it will be a golf cart only bridge-one 'pre-fabbed' off site, similar to the Chitty Chatty and Water Lily bridges.


Told by whom?


Those went up pretty quick.


5+ years each is "quick"?


I live in Lake Denham-and this is exactly why I bought there. All this in one year-not 5 or 10. One of us is probably wrong, and one of us is probably right-Betting we'll find out soon!

Good luck, that's quite the optimism. I'm getting used to things in TV running at a snails pace. Like the announced restaurant at Okahumpka from almost a year ago having almost zero progress, or a single building at Edna's taking almost a year to complete.

[margaretmattson]

I think 'zero possibility' might become a 100% possibility soon. I'm expecting the golf cart bridge across the turnpike at 470 to be announced soon-maybe as soon as Tuesday at the 'Night with the Developers' being held at the Sharon. I am told it will be a golf cart only bridge-one 'pre-fabbed' off site, similar to the Chitty Chatty and Water Lily bridges. Those went up pretty quick. Wouldn't involve relocating turnpike exits at all-it would be just north of the entrances/exits. If you walk back in that area-you will see the surveying already being done-and the 'walking path' behind the southern most villas already graded to be easily expanded into a 'multi modal'. Makes Eastport a 10 minute car ride and 15 minute golf cart ride away, and puts Middleton just as close (access down Landstone Boulevard-the 'back' way). I live in Lake Denham-and this is exactly why I bought there. All this in one year-not 5 or 10. One of us is probably wrong, and one of us is probably right-Betting we'll find out soon!The developer is having a heck of a time unloading his inventory in Dabney and Denham. A bridge would make that area more attractive. Yes! I can see it happening. It would protect his future builds. Sometimes, you have to spend money to make money.

[Shipping up to Boston]

I think 'zero possibility' might become a 100% possibility soon. I'm expecting the golf cart bridge across the turnpike at 470 to be announced soon-maybe as soon as Tuesday at the 'Night with the Developers' being held at the Sharon. I am told it will be a golf cart only bridge-one 'pre-fabbed' off site, similar to the Chitty Chatty and Water Lily bridges. Those went up pretty quick. Wouldn't involve relocating turnpike exits at all-it would be just north of the entrances/exits. If you walk back in that area-you will see the surveying already being done-and the 'walking path' behind the southern most villas already graded to be easily expanded into a 'multi modal'. Makes Eastport a 10 minute car ride and 15 minute golf cart ride away, and puts Middleton just as close (access down Landstone Boulevard-the 'back' way). I live in Lake Denham-and this is exactly why I bought there. All this in one year-not 5 or 10. One of us is probably wrong, and one of us is probably right-Betting we'll find out soon!

Anything is possible.
Around 2011, on Interstate 93 just outside of Boston, there was a project titled Fast 14. 14 bridges were prefabricated...off site and over the course of ten weekends....were replaced. A five year project completed in less than two months. Little or no disruption to traffic. Yes it was a taxpayer funded infrastructure project....but it proved that it can be done with proper planning. A dedicated singular prefab MMP bridge would be a cake walk for the developer...given his relationship with the Gov and his administration. So I’m not questioning this posters ‘insider hot take’....just that I’ve seen it done and it definitely could happen

[Altavia]

I think 'zero possibility' might become a 100% possibility soon. I'm expecting the golf cart bridge across the turnpike at 470 to be announced soon-maybe as soon as Tuesday at the 'Night with the Developers' being held at the Sharon. I am told it will be a golf cart only bridge-one 'pre-fabbed' off site, similar to the Chitty Chatty and Water Lily bridges. Those went up pretty quick. Wouldn't involve relocating turnpike exits at all-it would be just north of the entrances/exits.
...



In 5 years, that area will look nothing like it is today. The Developer has significant property available south of 470.

As mentioned previously, that interchange is being redesigned will be replaced as part of the Turnpike Widening to 8 lanes and 470 reroute and widening to 4 lanes.

The state now requires pedestrian access for all new overpasses across the Turnpike.

The West Orange Trail has a new bridge under construction across the Turnpike that is similar to the Waterlilly Bridge.

Turnpike Design work just started and construction scheduled over the next 5+ years.

If I recall correctly, Don Wiley who is also on the regional road committee, indicated an MMP over the Turnpike is likely.

[kansasr]

The developer is having a heck of a time unloading his inventory in Dabney and Denham. A bridge would make that area more attractive. Yes! I can see it happening. It would protect his future builds. Sometimes, you have to spend money to make money.

I'm not sure how you define "heck of a time" but according to the Lake County property appraiser, who's data is usually 6 weeks or so behind, through early March 91.1% of Lake Denham had been sold and even 52.5% of Dabney had been sold. Over 20% of the unsold in Dabney are the interior lots in the "enclave", which, it appears, are a little less desirable in that area.

Time to quit bashing Dabney. Yes, if using your golf cart for everything is a BIG requirement, then it's probably not for you. If you like having a post office about a mile away (Okahumpka PO) or all sorts of shopping just a little further down the road on US 27 in Leesburg, then it's a GREAT location.

[Normal]

I'm not sure how you define "heck of a time" but according to the Lake County property appraiser, who's data is usually 6 weeks or so behind, through early March 91.1% of Lake Denham had been sold and even 52.5% of Dabney had been sold. Over 20% of the unsold in Dabney are the interior lots in the "enclave", which, it appears, are a little less desirable in that area.

Time to quit bashing Dabney. Yes, if using your golf cart for everything is a BIG requirement, then it's probably not for you. If you like having a post office about a mile away (Okahumpka PO) or all sorts of shopping just a little further down the road on US 27 in Leesburg, then it's a GREAT location.

It isn’t just the Developer who is taking hits, it’s national. Larger builders like Lennar, D.R. Horton, and Toll Brothers have all had disappointing housing starts data. Some gimmicks working to attract buyers are “builder” mortgages that are lower than the market’s 7-8% range. The Tampa market is getting crushed by the economy and Fed policymakers. It will take time to adjust to normal building paces.

[Snakster66]

Why would they build a bridge after the fact that would cost $10M+ just to make two poorly located villages have easier access to Eastport?

I think you answered your own question

[LeRoySmith]

I think 'zero possibility' might become a 100% possibility soon. I'm expecting the golf cart bridge across the turnpike at 470 to be announced soon-maybe as soon as Tuesday at the 'Night with the Developers' being held at the Sharon. Betting we'll find out soon!

I hope you're correct, I'd like to collect on that 6:1 beer bet I have with Normal. I think the fact that he never really agreed to the bet isn't all that important.

[frayedends]

I think 'zero possibility' might become a 100% possibility soon. I'm expecting the golf cart bridge across the turnpike at 470 to be announced soon-maybe as soon as Tuesday at the 'Night with the Developers' being held at the Sharon. I am told it will be a golf cart only bridge-one 'pre-fabbed' off site, similar to the Chitty Chatty and Water Lily bridges. Those went up pretty quick. Wouldn't involve relocating turnpike exits at all-it would be just north of the entrances/exits. If you walk back in that area-you will see the surveying already being done-and the 'walking path' behind the southern most villas already graded to be easily expanded into a 'multi modal'. Makes Eastport a 10 minute car ride and 15 minute golf cart ride away, and puts Middleton just as close (access down Landstone Boulevard-the 'back' way). I live in Lake Denham-and this is exactly why I bought there. All this in one year-not 5 or 10. One of us is probably wrong, and one of us is probably right-Betting we'll find out soon!

I was looking at that walking path on google maps recently and totally agree. At least on the map it heads right toward the turnpike.

[frayedends]

I hope you're correct, I'd like to collect on that 6:1 beer bet I have with Normal. I think the fact that he never really agreed to the bet isn't all that important.

If we get a bridge announced I will buy you 3 beers next time I’m down there.

Question for others (could be its own thread but you guys know about bridges).

When I go over Brownwood bridge and maybe a couple other bridges (golf cart bridges) there seems to be a walking path up and down but they stop at the main part of the bridge. Meaning they sort of lead right to the golf cart road over the bridge. Is walking over these bridges allowed? Seems if you are walking you’d have little space to get out of the way. The raised curb on the side is too thin to be walking on.

[Normal]

I hope you're correct, I'd like to collect on that 6:1 beer bet I have with Normal. I think the fact that he never really agreed to the bet isn't all that important.

LOL, the distance between the WaterLilly and Bexley (Sawgrass) bridges is 2 and a half times greater than the distance of Bexley to 470 and the turnpike. What benefit would there be to all of a sudden put in an unneeded bridge because of a very few? Dabney residents only have to drive a cart to Sawgrass to pass over the turnpike. We are talking about golf carts after all.

[pokeefe45@aol.com]

LOL, the distance between the WaterLilly and Bexley (Sawgrass) bridges is 2 and a half times greater than the distance of Bexley to 470 and the turnpike. What benefit would there be to all of a sudden put in an unneeded bridge because of a very few? Dabney residents only have to drive a cart to Sawgrass to pass over the turnpike. We are talking about golf carts after all.

Good question-2 reasons (IMHO)-1) TV is having a really hard time selling out Dabney-although I agree, not sure it makes sense to spend that much money to sell 100 houses (Plus 'Enclave' lots unsold) 2) Land south of Dabney is owned by TV on the Dabney side of the turnpike and slated for commercial development, to the best of my knowledge. My conjecture is that the Bridge over will lead to a tunnel under to give all residents access to the future commercial area. The 'bridge under' could be accomplished once the car overpass is rebuilt as part of the 'turnpike widening project'-I think slated for 2027-more info on that can be found at 'turnpike widening' Dot Com. That opens up the south side of 470 to thousands of 'golf carts' and makes the area more commercially viable in the distant future. So bottom line, I think Step 1 is the golf cart bridge-it will have to be there eventually spanning the new widened 8 lane turnpike-so why not now?

[Mass288]

Why would you want to live down there?

Because you dont..easy peasy

[Altavia]

If we get a bridge announced I will buy you 3 beers next time I’m down there.

Question for others (could be its own thread but you guys know about bridges).

When I go over Brownwood bridge and maybe a couple other bridges (golf cart bridges) there seems to be a walking path up and down but they stop at the main part of the bridge. Meaning they sort of lead right to the golf cart road over the bridge. Is walking over these bridges allowed? Seems if you are walking you’d have little space to get out of the way. The raised curb on the side is too thin to be walking on.

I doubt many walk over those bridges after doing once.

According to Don Wiley, at that time of design, FDOT was afraid walkers would throw stuff on the roads below. So FDOT would't approve a pedestrian walkway across the bridge.

More recently, several bridges, that look strikingly like the Villages bridges, have been approved with pedestrian walkways accross the Turnpike, Including the Bexley bridge.

[Shipping up to Boston]

I doubt many walk over those bridges after doing once.

According to Don Wiley, at that time of design, FDOT was afraid walkers would throw stuff on the roads below. So FDOT would't approve a pedestrian walkway across the bridge.

More recently, several bridges, that look strikingly like the Villages bridges, have been approved with pedestrian walkways accross the Turnpike, Including the Bexley bridge.

Any issues on those structures.....with walkers throwing stuff on the roads below? Sounds more like an inner city excuse to me

[Altavia]

LOL, the distance between the WaterLilly and Bexley (Sawgrass) bridges is 2 and a half times greater than the distance of Bexley to 470 and the turnpike. What benefit would there be to all of a sudden put in an unneeded bridge because of a very few? Dabney residents only have to drive a cart to Sawgrass to pass over the turnpike. We are talking about golf carts after all.

A connection you may be missing is that any new bridge must also have pedestrian access.

It's a relatively small incremental cost within a four billion dollar project to widen into a MMP. Bexley Bridge and West Orange Trail are examples.

Maybe part of the reasons the bonds are so high in that area is to provide funding for the access?

[thelegges]

If we get a bridge announced I will buy you 3 beers next time I’m down there.

Question for others (could be its own thread but you guys know about bridges).

When I go over Brownwood bridge and maybe a couple other bridges (golf cart bridges) there seems to be a walking path up and down but they stop at the main part of the bridge. Meaning they sort of lead right to the golf cart road over the bridge. Is walking over these bridges allowed? Seems if you are walking you’d have little space to get out of the way. The raised curb on the side is too thin to be walking on.

The separate side with barrier is for bikes, who have a tendency to have hard time with the incline, slowing down carts. Safe way for them to go up hill then merge to go over bridge. Bridges aren’t really pedestrian friendly, no that little curb on the side isn’t made for people to walk. But to keep carts from hitting the side of bridge

[frayedends]

The separate side with barrier is for bikes, who have a tendency to have hard time with the incline, slowing down carts. Safe way for them to go up hill then merge to go over bridge. Bridges aren’t really pedestrian friendly, no that little curb on the side isn’t made for people to walk. But to keep carts from hitting the side of bridge

Ahh, that makes sense. Thanks!

[frayedends]

Listening to Gold Wingnut live and he thinks there will be a golf cart path over the turnpike on 470. They have to build another bridge. They will redo the ramps. The developer has the contract to build it with Lake County. So it's not the turnpike authority. That makes a lot of sense that they would put a golf cart path.

[Altavia]

Listening to Gold Wingnut live and he thinks there will be a golf cart path over the turnpike on 470. They have to build another bridge. They will redo the ramps. The developer has the contract to build it with Lake County. So it's not the turnpike authority. That makes a lot of sense that they would put a golf cart path.

Thanks for the update and good news the build is contracted to the Developer.

[frayedends]

Thanks for the update and good news the build is contracted to the Developer.


Can you give me an opinion on this part of the video, at 58:17 someone asked about a tunnel under 470 at Dabney to the new area south of 470. The area is owned by the Villages and Don said it will be commercial, most likely. The way Don phrased it I think he would bet there will be a tunnel. But listening to it a few times, he may have meant he'd take the side of that bet that they wouldn't do it.

By "easy money" I assume he meant they'd make money by Villagers having golf cart access to new stores.

What do you think?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHFXi9oBVf0

[Mass288]

Just curious, where do you go to get a quart of milk?

Publix or win Dixie both just over 2 miles away..was there a question????

[thelegges]

Well Tradewinds isn’t golf cart accessible, yet the parking lot is pretty full. So whatever retail they build on the other side of 470, will still be busy even if it’s by car only.

If we play golf near Lopez we drive a cart from Richmond, but if we are going to eat in the general area we drive. That way we can stop at couple of places on the way home.

Either way for us when we bought in Pennacamp everyone on this site said we were isolated, and no one would buy those houses. That didn’t happen

Plus I am surprised developers would start discounting houses in left field at the corner of Isolated and end of the earth if a bridge was coming in the next year or so.

Every neighborhood has waited for enough homes to be built before retail was opened. No businesses will open and be void of customers unless they have a reason to throw away money.

[Altavia]

Can you give me an opinion on this part of the video, at 58:17 someone asked about a tunnel under 470 at Dabney to the new area south of 470. The area is owned by the Villages and Don said it will be commercial, most likely. The way Don phrased it I think he would bet there will be a tunnel. But listening to it a few times, he may have meant he'd take the side of that bet that they wouldn't do it.

By "easy money" I assume he meant they'd make money by Villagers having golf cart access to new stores.

What do you think?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHFXi9oBVf0

Highly likely a tunnel will be under 470 in Lake County to connect to whatever they build on the other side, as they did in Sumter County.

Earlier plans talked about re-aligning 470 to smooth out the dog legs so it's possible that road will be relocated as they did replacing 470 with Central Parkway.

https://cdn.lakecountyfl.gov/media/zjqfy5nr/cr-470.pdf

[frayedends]

Highly likely a tunnel will be under 470 in Lake County to connect to whatever they build on the other side, as they did in Sumter County.

That’s great. We won’t be as isolated as everyone says. I was looking at that area and thinking if they are making 470 into 4 lanes it will be easy to add a tunnel under. Plus that rectangular spot at the end of Chandler on 470 that looks like a potential strip mall or gas station already has a MMP to it.

[Altavia]

That’s great. We won’t be as isolated as everyone says. I was looking at that area and thinking if they are making 470 into 4 lanes it will be easy to add a tunnel under. Plus that rectangular spot at the end of Chandler on 470 that looks like a potential strip mall or gas station already has a MMP to it.

The question is what and when.

Magnolia Place is still waiting for A CVS.

[thelegges]

The question is what and when.

Magnolia Place is still waiting for A CVS.

Or maybe CVS is waiting for a reason

[Shipping up to Boston]

Or maybe CVS is waiting for a reason

They’re having a bad week....


Access Denied (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/01/cvs-health-cvs-earnings-q1-2024.html&sa=U&ved=2ahUKEwi7q5eV8feFAxWOk4kEHeuxCnoQ0PADegQICxAL&usg=AOvVaw1i27_sKs4bCxFtZh1gLk21)

[Shipping up to Boston]

They’re having a bad week....


Access Denied (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/01/cvs-health-cvs-earnings-q1-2024.html&sa=U&ved=2ahUKEwi7q5eV8feFAxWOk4kEHeuxCnoQ0PADegQICxAL&usg=AOvVaw1i27_sKs4bCxFtZh1gLk21)

The link opens

[Altavia]

That’s great. We won’t be as isolated as everyone says. I was looking at that area and thinking if they are making 470 into 4 lanes it will be easy to add a tunnel under. Plus that rectangular spot at the end of Chandler on 470 that looks like a potential strip mall or gas station already has a MMP to it.

I would not be surprised if the 470 interchange is relocated just south of the wastewater treatment facility.

The current site north east corner is blocked in by homes. The land south is wide open Villages property.

Essentially making 470 a straight shot to Okahumpka.

The existing interchange could continue to be used during construction.

Probably not but maybe something like this (food for thought)

[Normal]

The question is what and when.

Magnolia Place is still waiting for A CVS.

Magnolia is still waiting for the golf cart crossing along Warm Springs over the turnpike. The dead end path still sits with a barricade.

[Altavia]

Magnolia is still waiting for the golf cart crossing along Warm Springs over the turnpike. The dead end path still sits with a barricade.

Oh, you mean at the south bridge that will be replaced during Turnpike Expansion?

A bridge that will be required to have pedestrian access?

As Don Wiley says, the Villages does not build dead end streets.


We'll see...

[Altavia]

Or maybe CVS is waiting for a reason

Surveyors, utility marking and portapotties sprouted on the site today.

Looks like site prep is starting now.

[MrChip72]

Magnolia is still waiting for the golf cart crossing along Warm Springs over the turnpike. The dead end path still sits with a barricade.

There's a bunch of other ways to get to Magnolia from every direction. That path won't be open for at least 15 years or possibly never depending on what they eventually build but either way it won't be started for another 6 years at least. If the developer is responsible then it might take 10 years to do the bridge.

Everyone saw how the Waterlily bridge which was prefab offsite took longer to complete than the San Francisco Golden Gate bridge (4.5 years) from start to finish which was way over 100x longer than Waterlily.

[Marathon Man]

Magnolia is still waiting for the golf cart crossing along Warm Springs over the turnpike. The dead end path still sits with a barricade.

I don't know anyone who is waiting for that. We use the Waterlily bridge. Easy peasy.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Oh, you mean at the south bridge that will be replaced during Turnpike Expansion?

A bridge that will be required to have pedestrian access?

As Don Wiley says, the Villages does not build dead end streets.


We'll see...

I guess ‘dead end’ is subjective. If you live on the end of a cul de sac, that would be a dead end. Or if your at the end of a street that backs up to a swamp, that’s probably a dead end as well. If the point is connectivity, the developer always seems to (eventually) make everyone whole.

[Mass288]

I have lived all over the villages and I would not do the south as there is so little there and so much driving. I did 300 miles a week then moved north of 466A. If you are young you can wait for the amenities. I love having 4 pools, shopping, and many golf courses nearby in Duval!
Ok if no one else will....I'll call it. 300 miles a week. B.S.

[LeRoySmith]

Ok if no one else will....I'll call it. 300 miles a week. B.S.

50 miles a day would be a lot of cart time. Not impossible but it makes my butt hurt thinking about it.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Ok if no one else will....I'll call it. 300 miles a week. B.S.

Yeah I was kinda waiting on some details as well. None forthcoming so I second that

[MrChip72]

Ok if no one else will....I'll call it. 300 miles a week. B.S.

Yes I'm somewhat skeptical. I'm in Deluna south of the turnpike and would have to drive to LSL and back 10 times to hit 300 miles. There's about 25 golf courses that are closer to me than LSL, 10 of them under 6 miles away.

[KimberlyOz]

Looking at new homes. It appears that the Denham/Dabney is kind of bare as far as restaurants, golf, or any shopping? It looks like one maybe two pools for the whole area? How far to areas where you can get a beverage or dinner? Seems like a social desert.

Please help.
We are renting for a month in Dabney. Did this on purpose to decide if we should buy a new home in a Dabney or the new Moultrie Creek. We bought in Moultrie Creek. Too far from everything here in Dabney. We feel like we’re on an island. At least in Moultrie Creek we see future amenities being built so we know it’s just a short time away and that works for us. We’ve only been in this rental for over a week and I’m already flustered. Plus you hear the busy roads 470 and the turnpike. No thank you.