2022 Discover Neighborhoods - Spring/Summer
Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1466766
For answers to that mystery project down the street — or for rumor control — visit North Port's commercial development map. Online at cityofnorthport.com, users hover at a numbered icon to see what's planned. A blueprint or minor details surface, something to scratch the itch. Scroll the map to Price and Toledo Blade boulevards, for example, you'd learn a Wawa convenience store, a Tommy's Express Car Wash, an Aldi's and other projects are planned. Though the business identification platform is not new, it had gained in popularity as rumors surged on social media, a city spokesperson said. North Port re-posted a map link on its social media page, for example, drawing hundreds of responses, many getting a reply from a staffer. That included this: "Drum roll, please! The Toledo Blade Wawa development order has been extended to Dec. 16, 2022, so we are hoping to see construction this year. The Wawa going in on U.S. 41/Cornelius is in Charlotte County's jurisdiction." "I love these updates," Kathy Grandt re- sponded to the map on social media. "When I saw this post, I did an eye roll, fully expecting the inevitable negative comments. I love your comments on this. The usual great job. Thank you." Responding to users and an informational map with details "does not happen in every city," city spokesperson Josh Taylor said. "It's social media, right? We're trying to be social." North Port had pushed its social media and response teams to handle, in some cases, hundreds of daily inquiries to the Economic Development division, for instance. A call center with a staffer to answer questions was on the horizon, Taylor said. "People are always trying to figure things out," said Mel Thomas, Economic Development division director. And web platforms allow visitors to "answer their own questions." North Port had not yet posted a map icon at Sumter and Centerview Lane, which is near Price Boulevard and the North Port Fire Rescue headquarters, however. That parcel next to the Waffle House reportedly is a coffee shop and dental office, a spokesperson said. By Craig Garrett What's new? Online map has the answer PAGE 25 ARCADIA Downtown Arcadia If you're looking for some old-Florida charm, a 35-mile drive northeast of Port Charlotte takes you to the town of Arcadia, a great day trip destination. With a history steeped in Florida Cracker cowboy culture, Arcadia offers more than 25 antique and specialty shops, many unique dining destinations and its new Mosaic Arena, home of the Arcadia All Florida Championship Rodeo. The downtown is very walkable, just park your car and walk from shop to shop. VENICE West Venice Avenue The shops of West Venice Avenue and its adjoining streets offer dozens of unique gift and apparel shops, sidewalk cafés, fine dining and Florida-casual ambiance. Take a stroll down the tree-lined linear park and hunt for sharks teeth at Venice Beach. FORT MYERS Edison Mall Edison Mall has a store for everyone. During your visit enjoy a meal at one of the many dining options. 4125 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers. Miromar Outlets Miromar Outlets offers more than 140 designer and brand name outlets such as, Bose, Columbia Sportswear, Coach, Nike and Michael Kors. Hungry? No problem — restaurants ranging from fast food to fine dining are available. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. SARASOTA The Mall at University Town Center (UTC)The UTC Mall has more than 150 stores and restaurants. Apple, Microsoft, Crate & Barrel, Hollister, Saks Fifth Avenue and Williams-Sonoma are just a few of the brands that have retail stores in the UTC Mall. Restaurants range from diners to fine fining. Located at 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota. St. Armands Circle One of Florida's most well-known shopping areas is Sarasota's St. Armand's Circle, in the center of beautiful St. Armand's Key. Unique galleries, spas, jewelry casual wear and formal dining — including the iconic Columbia Restaurant — are all encompassed within the circle. Located at St. Armand's Circle, Sarasota. ENGLEWOOD West Dearborn Street The historic heart of Olde Englewood Village, West Dearborn Street offers a variety of restaurants and bistros, live music venues and one-of-a-kind coffee shops. Spend some time shopping the antique and jewelry shops, unique Florida clothing stores, and galleries that feature the creative talent of a thriving arts community. Thursday is Farmers Market day from October to May, and festivals and events are planned at Pioneer Plaza nearly every weekend. Plan to spend a day getting to know this old-Florida beach town. Located at Dearborn Street, Englewood. FILE PHOTO The Columbia Restaurant is one of the most famous restaurants located at St. Armands Circle.