The city of North Port has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, with several developments shaping its future. While the planned Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) project is a game-changer in terms of economic expansion, real estate, and workforce movement, it is just one piece of the broader transformation taking place. From entertainment and retail to infrastructure and recreational spaces, let’s explore some of the most impactful developments that are making North Port a prime destination for residents, businesses, and investors.
CoolToday Park: A Grand Slam for North Port
One of the most notable additions to North Port is CoolToday Park, the spring training home of the Atlanta Braves. Located in the southern portion of Sarasota County, this state-of-the-art facility opened on March 24, 2019, as a result of collaboration among the State of Florida, Sarasota County, the City of North Port, the Atlanta Braves, and Wellen Park’s developer, Mattamy Homes.
This $140 million complex boasts a seating capacity of 7,473 spectators, a two-level Braves Clubhouse Team Store, multiple full-service suites and clubs, six major league practice fields, and an 18,000-square-foot indoor training and medical facility. Visitors can also enjoy the Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill, open year-round for lunch and dinner.
Beyond baseball, CoolToday Park serves as a venue for numerous community events, attracting sports fans, business owners, and investors alike. The ballpark’s presence has not only enhanced North Port’s appeal to seasonal visitors but also strengthened its position as a desirable location for long-term settlement.
Costco: A Retail Powerhouse Boosting the Local Economy
The arrival of Costco in Wellen Park marks another significant milestone in North Port’s economic growth. The 157,000-square-foot warehouse store, which opened on June 5, 2024, is the second Costco in Sarasota County and the third in the region. The store has already had a notable impact on the local job market, with half of its 240 employees being new hires from North Port and South Sarasota County.
Costco’s presence not only enhances shopping convenience for residents but also boosts the local economy by attracting shoppers from neighboring counties. Increased consumer spending, tax revenue, and job creation are just a few of the positive outcomes expected from this major retail addition.
Bayside Pet Resort: A Haven for Pet Owners
Adding to the commercial expansion along the U.S. 41 corridor in Wellen Park, Bayside Pet Resort opened its fourth location in October 2023. The 16,000-square-foot facility offers premium overnight accommodations for cats and dogs, featuring spacious indoor-outdoor runs, humidity-controlled environments with fresh air circulation, and webcams for pet owners to check in on their furry friends.
This upscale pet care center not only caters to North Port’s growing pet-loving community but also creates job opportunities and increases traffic to surrounding businesses. For new residents, the availability of such services adds to North Port’s attractiveness as a place to call home.
Warm Mineral Springs Park: A Natural Treasure Undergoing Revitalization
North Port is home to Florida’s only naturally occurring warm spring, Warm Mineral Springs Park. With an average water temperature of 85 degrees year-round, the springs provide both therapeutic and recreational experiences for the 150,000 visitors it welcomes annually.
Recognized on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places since 1977, the park is now set for a revitalization. The city plans to enhance the 20-acre area surrounding the springs, with future considerations for the adjoining 60 acres of undeveloped land. This project aims to preserve and elevate one of North Port’s most unique attractions, further solidifying its reputation as a top-tier destination.
Price Boulevard Widening Project: A Vital Infrastructure Upgrade
Infrastructure improvements are essential to sustaining North Port’s rapid growth, and the Price Boulevard Widening Project is a key initiative in this effort. Scheduled to begin construction in April 2025, this project will expand Price Boulevard from two lanes to four lanes between Toledo Blade and Sumter boulevards.
Key features include:
- Four travel lanes (two in each direction)
- A continuous bi-directional center left turn lane
- A 10-foot-wide multi-use path on each side of the roadway
- New traffic signal mast-arm infrastructure at major intersections
- Synchronization of all traffic signals along the corridor
This expansion will improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance connectivity within the city, making daily commutes smoother for residents and businesses alike.
A Bright Future for North Port
With these and many other developments in progress, it is no surprise that MoneyGeek ranked North Port as the No. 1 “Most Up-and-Coming Small City in the U.S.” The city has seen a 28% population increase and a 43% rise in housing units since 2017.
As North Port continues its upward trajectory, the city remains a prime location for investment, economic development, and quality living. Whether you are looking for a place to call home, a business-friendly environment, or a thriving community with endless potential, North Port is a city on the rise—one that promises a vibrant and prosperous future for all.
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