SMH continues to prioritize Wellen Park for its plans in south Sarasota County, even though the selection committee excluded it.

SMH actually picked up the property at 7900 S. Tamiami Trail back in 2015, thanks to a land swap with the developer. The land sits just north of West Villages Parkway, in the heart of Wellen Park’s future growth. But as for when they’ll decide what to do with it? No one’s giving a timeline yet. Kim Savage, who speaks for the hospital, said the board will talk about budgeting and strategic planning this late spring and early summer. That’s when they’ll figure out what to do with all their properties, including Wellen Park.

Meanwhile, the big action is over at Sumter. Construction’s moving forward on the $507 million hospital project. Work started in December with utilities and stormwater, and by last month, the crew was prepping for heavy-duty nighttime concrete pours, sometimes up to 35 cement trucks rolling in for a single shift.

Upon completion, the nine-story hospital will open with 100 beds and three extra floors for growth, enough to easily expand to 208 beds and, eventually, up to 400 beds as the area needs more. That’s a lot of capacity. And with all that room to grow at Sumter, nobody expects SMH to rush their plans for Wellen Park. Realistically, it could be years before anything big happens there.

Wellen Park’s developers still see a future for the site. Their official word? The property is ready and zoned for hospital and medical office use, matching the community’s long-term healthcare plans. They made it clear: even though SMH hasn’t picked a date, they still continue to move ahead with the project. 

Other healthcare providers continue to expand nearby. Exalt Health will open a rehab hospital soon, and HCA Healthcare’s working on a new medical office along U.S. 41. Momentum is building and investors see opportunity, as more people flood into Wellen Park.

So why did SMH pick Sumter instead? The board decided in January 2025 after a staff study gave it the edge. It’s by I-75, serves an area with fewer hospitals, and draws less from their Venice campus. Plus, SMH already dominates the market in Wellen Park; therefore, they did not consider adding another hospital there a huge win. Still, they acknowledge that if competition arrives, say, AdventHealth or HCA Florida, things could change.

Right now, about 10,000 people live in Wellen Park, but full build out could mean 50,000 to 60,000. That’s going to take decades, and North Port’s already closing in on 100,000 residents for comparison.

There’s more growth on the horizon, too. Winchester Ranch at Wellen Park might add another 9,000 homes if developers and county commissioners can hash out their differences.

Meanwhile, hospital groups aren’t standing still. HCA Florida opened a stand-alone ER last year, right on S. Tamiami Trail, and SMH has two urgent care centers just up the road in Venice. There’s no shortage of healthcare options moving in as the region grows. It’s simply a matter of time when Wellen Park gets its own full-fledged hospital.

The post North Port’s First Hospital Is Rising, But What’s Next for Wellen Park? appeared first on Englewood Review.

Picture citrus wood-fired steaks, fresh seafood, and pasta, plus creative small plates, all crafted by a passionate chef team. You’re surrounded by lakeside views that really set the scene.

Happy Hour runs every day from 3 to 6 p.m. It’s the perfect way to unwind, watch the sunset, and try something new off the menu.

This place is more than just a restaurant; it’s Downtown Wellen Park’s landmark spot on the lake. The Banyan House also serves as the exclusive caterer for Solis Hall, the destination for weddings, reunions, and special events in the area. Food and drink options are booming throughout Downtown Wellen, and The Banyan House is right at the heart of it.

Every detail about The Banyan House is intentional, from the menu to the design. It’s this attention to detail that makes The Banyan House special. 

Surrounded by the picturesque Downtown Wellen’s architecture and the views of Grand Lake, The Banyan House designed the restaurant to bring the outdoors in. Enormous windows frame the restaurant and fill it with natural light. Diners feel like they’re dining amongst the trees, surrounded by hand-crafted banyan trees, natural colors, wood, and leaf patterns everywhere you look. The space feels alive.

As stunning as the restaurant appears, the best part is when you taste their creations. The space is comfortable, but the food? They have curated the menu with so much care. They balanced every dish in terms of ingredients, presentation, texture, and flavor brightness, leaving nothing to chance. The Banyan House is Wellen Park’s go-to spot for dining.

A family-owned restaurant, The Banyan House isn’t just another storefront. What gives the restaurant its spark is that it isn’t just another chain franchise. 

For The Banyan House, it’s all about the community. Restaurants with heart, like The Banyan House, are the backdrop for neighborhood celebrations or comfort on hard days. Restaurants feed us, but they also provide a place to belong. It’s like “Cheers” where everybody knows your name. That’s the atmosphere you find at The Banyan House Restaurant.

The Banyan House Restaurant
19725 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice, FL 34293
General info: info@banyanhouserestaurant.com
941.584.5300

The post The Banyan House Restaurant: A Hometown Vibe with Chef-Driven New American Classics appeared first on Englewood Review.

It’s the fourth year for the event, and Hotwire Communications is presenting again. Wellen Park keeps putting healthy and active living front and center; this race is another big piece of that.

Both races kick off at Solis Hall in Downtown Wellen. Half marathoners start at 7:30 a.m., with the 5K right behind at 7:45 a.m. Walkers, strollers, and friendly dogs are all ready, and everyone’s welcome.

“This race has really become a tradition for a lot of our residents and neighbors,” says Rick Severance, Wellen Park’s president. “People set early goals and use our 40-plus miles of trails to keep up with their training and routines.”

Anyone 13 or older can sign up for the half marathon—$50 for ages 13 to 18, $75 for 19 and up. The 5K is $20 for participants 18 and under, $35 for everyone else. Part of the proceeds and all donations go straight to Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast.

After the race, stick around for food, drinks, and the awards ceremony. If you need more details or want to register, check out runsignup.com/Race/FL/Venice/WellenParkHalfMarathonand5K.

The new half-marathon course is flat, fully paved, and clearly marked—so you don’t have to worry about getting lost. The race organizers encourage spectators to line the course and cheer for the runners.

Wellen Park is one of the top-selling communities in the country, known for bringing people together and making fitness a priority. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities here, with lakes, parks, trails, and plenty of green space.

“Walking, cycling, running—it’s part of daily life here,” says Severance. “People use the trails all the time, whether they’re meeting up with neighbors or just squeezing in a workout.”

And there’s more coming. In March, Wellen Park is opening the 2.5-mile Buttonwood Trail, the 3-mile Oakheart Trail, and Greenway Park, a brand-new linear trail. More places to get outside, move, and connect.

The post A Community in Motion: Wellen Park’s March 21 race tests a certified 13.1-mile route appeared first on Englewood Review.

Not everyone is on board. Approximately 2,000 residents have spoken out and stand firm against the extension.

The project has now reached the 90% design phase. County and project staff set up in the lobby at 6 p.m., speaking with residents and showing project boards before the main presentation kicked off at 6:30 in the chambers. The meeting wrapped up at 8 p.m. after a long round of questions. Because this wasn’t an official Sarasota County Board meeting, no votes or decisions happened that night; it was strictly for information.

In August 2025, the County Commission had already approved the deal for the project. Commissioners unanimously supported spending $15 million to hire local developer Pat Neal to build the half-mile extension.

The county’s also looking at widening River Road and Winchester Boulevard, all hoping to ease the region’s notorious traffic. With new schools in Wellen Park, K-8 and High School, and growing neighborhoods, leaders argue the project is overdue. The new road will link Englewood Road and River Road. This will help reduce traffic on Tamiami Trail and compensate for the problems with the Keyway Road project. Once the work wraps up, Manasota Beach Road will open to the public.

Who is Pat Neal?

Pat Neal isn’t just any developer. He served as a state senator and representative, and he’s been running Neal Communities since 1970. Forbes pegged the combined net worth of Neal and his sons at $1.2 billion in 2025. He’s the driving force behind Wellen Park, Esplanade, and Windward at Lakewood Ranch.

He’s also a heavyweight in Republican politics. Since 2019, Neal has poured over $3.6 million into GOP committees, including $180,000 to the Republican Party of Florida and $126,500 to the Sarasota GOP. One of Neal Communities’ lobbyists, Evan Power, even chairs the Florida GOP.

When will construction start?

Planners expect work to kick off in spring 2026. The River Road widening is already underway, and they’ll start widening Winchester Boulevard later this year.

Why are people against the road?

Many residents aren’t happy about the project. They see Pat Neal building a road right through their front yards just to connect his Wellen Park community to the beach. Folks living on the section east of Englewood Road especially don’t want a brand-new two-lane connector running off their driveways. They’re worried this extension will open the door to more development in their quiet, rural spot, which already feels boxed in by new subdivisions.

They’ve also seen more flooding as development speeds up, and now they fear adding thousands of cars racing past their homes every day will make things worse and more dangerous.

People in the community aren’t staying quiet about this. They’ve started petitions like “STOP PAT NEAL: Saving the Wetland, Wildlife, and Preserving Land – STOP MBR Expansion” to push back against the Manasota Beach Road expansion.

Residents from Englewood and nearby areas have come together, determined to stop the project. They believe property rights are being ignored, and the threat to wildlife is real. The campaign says Pat Neal, his company Neal Communities, and other developers keep chipping away at what makes Florida unique. Every new development means more wetlands and open land disappear. Their petition is just one part of a much bigger fight.

Their main reasons for opposing the Manasota Beach Road (MBR) expansion in Venice and Englewood are:

1. Public safety and risk to the environment

2. Shady decision-making and outside influence

3. Not enough notice or transparency, and potential legal violations

4. Concerns about the public – private partnership

Their focus is on four items:

– Pat Neal must follow all county rules and regulations.

– All work on MBR needs to stop until the county follows the right procedures.

– Sarasota County should provide certified documentation showing communication with residents about the road and proof of the eastern segment’s approval.

– The project must fully comply with Florida’s stormwater management standards and federal environmental protections.

The organization states that if the county doesn’t do a thorough review and stick to these requirements, people, wildlife, and public trust all get put at risk. The group wants Sarasota County to reject or at least suspend the MBR project for now.

There’s a call to action. On February 10th at 9 a.m., there is a commissioners’ meeting. If you want to speak, you’ll get three minutes. Bring up delaying or canceling MBR and support building Keyway Road instead.

The group also wants answers about the $15 million in federal funds that were meant for River Road but ended up going toward planning for MBR.

For more information thepetitionsite.com.

The post Opposition Groups Form as Manasota Beach Road Extension Plans Revealed appeared first on Englewood Review.

The environment’s taken a hit, too. Empty lots and parks vanish, replaced by more buildings and roads. Pollution creeps up. New faces keep arriving, yet longtime Floridians wonder if the place they love is slipping away. Is Florida still the place it once was, or are those days gone?

Polls from late 2025 and early 2026 back this up. Florida Atlantic University found that nearly half of those surveyed have thought about leaving because costs, insurance, inflation, and housing just won’t stop rising. The James Madison Institute saw 66% worried they simply can’t afford a home anymore, not with taxes and expenses the way they are.

You can feel the frustration. Florida still pulls people in, but for a lot of residents, the economic stress is real and growing. Research in partnership with 1000 Friends of Florida paints a stark picture: more sprawl is on the way, especially around the I-4 corridor in Central Florida, and that means millions more acres lost, more pollution, and fewer green spaces for everyone.

Meanwhile, advocacy groups like 1000 Friends of Florida sound the alarm about new bills currently in the legislature that favors developers and could make sprawl even worse. People aren’t just frustrated; they’re demanding action.

Property tax relief is high on the wish list for the next legislative session, and there’s a big push for smarter planning. Experts and everyday residents alike are calling for more compact development, infill projects, and higher density in existing neighborhoods to save green space and get a handle on growth.

The bottom line is Florida’s growth is a double-edged sword. New faces keep arriving, but the pressure on wallets and the environment is catching up fast. Voters want actual changes to keep the state livable before the balance tips too far.

If you live in Southwest Florida and want to push back against sprawl, here are some options:

You can get involved with groups like the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, 1000 Friends of Florida, or Citizens United for Responsible Growth (CURG). There’s also the SWFL Climate & Community Initiative, and each of these groups brings people together to fight for smart growth, real community input, and protection of our natural resources.

Here’s a quick rundown of who’s doing what:

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida teams up with FGCU and local foundations to champion conservation, climate action, and community projects (conservancy.org).

1000 Friends of Florida fights for smart growth and sustainable communities across the state. They’re a go-to for anyone who wants resources on managing growth and protecting water (1000fof.org).

Citizens for Responsible Growth or CURG is all about grassroots action, sharing real info on how development affects conservation and stormwater (curg.org).

The SWFL Climate & Community Initiative brings people together to talk policy and push for climate-friendly solutions (conservancy.org).

The Southwest Florida Regional Planning Council (SWFRPC) works across the region to protect our environment and help our communities grow the right way (swfrpc.org).

What can you actually do?

Speak up for better local planning. Push your city or county to adopt the Citizen Planning Bill of Rights so the public actually gets a say in development.

Back smart growth. Support zoning changes, like more mixed housing and better density, that keep development within existing areas instead of sprawling out.

Stand up for farmland and open space. Push for policies that don’t let rural land turn into subdivisions unless there’s a real public benefit.

Get involved on the ground. Show up at planning meetings, get to know your area’s comprehensive plan, and connect with neighborhood groups that are fighting reckless development.

Vote for leaders and initiatives that take sustainable growth seriously. Your vote, your dollars, your voice, they all matter.

Spread the word. Talk to your friends and neighbors about how sprawl hurts water, stretches infrastructure, and chips away at our quality of life.

In short, if you want Southwest Florida to thrive in a way that benefits everyone, each person needs to play their part.

The post Pushing Back Against the Sprawl: A Local Guide to Smart Growth in Southwest Florida appeared first on Englewood Review.

The team behind Wellen Park wants to shift most of this 3,000-acre property out of its current rural status and into a moderate-density zone. Right now, the land sits in unincorporated Sarasota County, but that could change soon. They’re looking to build roughly 9,000 homes there.

This property, once part of the Taylor Ranch, sits just off South River Road near the Winchester Boulevard intersection. Back in 2002, North Port annexed most of Taylor Ranch, and over the years, it’s grown into the 9,000-acre Wellen Park community.

Winchester Florida Ranch, LLLP, is pushing for the zoning change, with plans to fold Winchester Ranch into North Port before breaking ground. City officials say they’re ready to handle water and sewer service and plan to beef up fire and police coverage as the area grows.

The Sarasota County Planning Committee already reviewed the proposal in December and gave it the green light, recommending commissioners approve the changes. The Planning Commission voted 7-1 in favor, with board member Jon Thaxton, the only dissenter, voicing his concerns.

During the meeting, developer attorney Bill Merrill argued that this move fits Sarasota County’s Comprehensive Plan for the area, calling the project “infill development.” Not everyone agreed. Several residents pushed back.

Amy Hibberd, a local realtor, questioned the need for even more homes. “Are we approving another pointless development with no buyers?” she said. “Look it up. People are leaving.”

The post Sarasota County to Vote on Massive 9,000-Home Winchester Ranch Development appeared first on Englewood Review.

Visitors can meet artists, learn about their techniques and explore a wide range of work, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, glasswork, ceramics, fiber and wearable art, mixed media and woodwork. Artists will also accept commissions for customized pieces.

“We believe in the inspirational and transformative power of art and are excited to bring the Holiday Festival of the Arts to our residents and visitors who are looking for unique gift giving pieces, or simply looking to pick up curated art for their own home,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park, the sixth fastest selling community in the United States.

Downtown Wellen’s boutiques, restaurants and businesses will be open throughout the festival. More information is available at wellenpark.com/events/holiday-festival-of-the-arts.

Downtown Wellen is located at 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice. Learn more at wellenpark.com/shop-dine.

The post Wellen Park Holiday Festival Of The Arts December 13 & 14 appeared first on Englewood Review.

“Wellen Wonderland is an unforgettable holiday celebration for the entire family that captures Wellen Park’s spirit of joy and community connections,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “Guests enjoy a wide variety of unique events and experiences that celebrate the season of being together with family, friends, and neighbors.”

For full event details, visit wellenpark.com/wellen-wonderland.

Thursday, Dec. 4
Local School Performances, 6 to 7 p.m.: Students from across the community share the magic of music – from time-honored carols to holiday classics – during performances on the Solis Hall stage.
Ornament Decorating, 6 to 8 p.m.: Twinkling lights and downtown’s 80-acre Grand Lake provide the backdrop as families and friends create one-of-a-kind keepsake ornaments. Activity available while supplies last.
Live Holiday Music Under the Heritage Tree, 7 to 10 p.m.: Enjoy holiday tunes performed by Totally B under downtown’s beautiful Heritage Tree.

Friday, Dec. 5
American Sirens Holiday Performance, 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.: Known for signature harmonies, captivating vocals and a timeless style, the American Sirens deliver an unforgettable evening accompanied by favorite holiday melodies.
Figure Skaters Performance, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.: Experience the magic of the season as talented skaters take to the ice for dazzling performances.
Tree Lighting with Santa, 6:15 to 6:30 p.m.: A Wellen Park holiday tradition, downtown sparkles to life during the annual tree lighting ceremony featuring a visit by Old Saint Nick. Gather by the Grand Lake as the switch is flipped on the community tree illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights, enjoy festive music, sip on seasonal treats and experience the magic as children visit with Santa. Registration is requested at wellenpark.com/wellen-wonderland.
Pictures with Santa, 6:30 to 8 p.m.: Capture a keepsake moment to treasure for years to come. Families create cherished memories while children share their holiday wishes with Santa Claus.
Ashley Lux Band, 6:30 to 10 p.m.: Gather with family and friends for a joyful night of music, community and celebration as this Tampa-based band performs seasonal favorites and soulful tunes.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Caddy Carts Parade of Lights, 6 p.m.: The night’s festivities kick off with the annual golf cart parade featuring carts decked out in lights and holiday decor as they make their way down Wellen Park Boulevard. Cue the squeals of delight as children spy a special guest getting a lift to his chair.
Dueling Pianos,6 to 10 p.m.: This year-round favorite gets a holiday makeover as dueling pianists tickle the ivories head-to-head, performing festive favorites and crowd requests. Expect a high-energy night of audience interaction and plenty of laughter.
Pictures with Santa, 6:15 to 8 p.m.: Kids relay their holiday wish lists with Santa as you snap an Instagram-worthy photo, set to the sparkling backdrop of downtown.

Sunday Dec. 7
Derek Roura Trio, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: This talented threesome performs holiday music on the Solis Hall stage during the weekly farmers market.
Snow Party, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; There’s a 100% chance of snow flurries today as children of all ages enjoy Wellen Park’s unique Snow Party. Downtown’s splash pad transforms to a winter wonderland – no mittens required.
Pictures with Santa, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: It’s the final opportunity for a picture with Santa before he returns to the North Pole.
Glow Bike Ride, 5:30 p.m.: Cyclists deck out their bikes in LED lighting and dress to impress during this beloved annual tradition – the brightest ride of the season. Enjoy the sights and sounds of holiday music from sidewalks or follow the lead of sponsor Kind Vibe Outfitters while cruising through downtown all aglow. The ride begins and ends at Solis Hall. Full details, including a route map and link to register, are available at wellenpark.com/wellen-wonderland.

Music under the Tree, Crownz Duo, 6 to 9 p.m.: Enjoy holiday music during this festive performance by Branco Costa.

The post Wellen Wonderland celebrates the spirit of the holiday season appeared first on Englewood Review.

The request, filed by Winchester Florida Ranch, LLLP on behalf of itself and the City of North Port, seeks to change the Future Land Use designation for about 2,432.9 acres of a 3,148-acre property along South River Road. The proposal would shift the land from Semi-Rural and Rural to Moderate Density Residential, which allows between two and fewer than five homes per acre. The rest of the land already carries Moderate Density Residential or Major Employment Center designations.

The property is located south and west of the North Port city boundary. After the hearing, the Planning Commission will send a recommendation to the Sarasota County Commission for final consideration.

All interested parties are invited to appear, be heard, and submit relevant evidence. Copies of the proposed Amendment and supporting documents are available during normal business hours in the Planning and Development Services Department at 1001 Sarasota Center Blvd., Sarasota, Florida.  Copies of the petition and supporting documents will be available to view or download at www.scgov.net, Keyword:  Planning Commission, the Friday prior to the public hearing.  Written comments will be considered and may be sent to the Planning and Development Services Department prior to the public hearing at the above address or by e-mail to planner@scgov.net.   The public hearing may be continued from time to time as announced by the Board. 

The post Sarasota County Sets Public Hearing On Land Use Change Near North Port appeared first on Englewood Review.

VENICE, Fla. — Downtown Wellen, the center of dining, shopping and entertainment in Wellen Park, is expanding with a new phase that will introduce restaurants, boutiques, wellness services and professional offices designed to serve residents and visitors alike.

“This next phase of Downtown Wellen reflects our commitment to creating vibrant, engaging spaces where people can connect and have conversations, whether they’re meeting for breakfast, enjoying a fitness class, browsing local shops or simply gathering with neighbors,” said Rick Severance, president of Wellen Park. “These new additions were curated with resident feedback in mind and are designed to enrich everyday life and strengthen the sense of community that makes Wellen Park so special.”

Merchant openings are expected in spring and summer 2026. The second phase of downtown also includes plans for a boutique hotel, new luxury apartments and a dog park. The newest retail phase is fully leased.

Restaurants and Cafes
Easy Does It Comfort Kitchen will serve comfort food with a creative twist, offering burgers, hearty sandwiches and “monstah” tater tots from Chef Spiros Stogiannis. La Maison, an authentic French patisserie, will offer breads, pastries and croissants. Agave Bandido, a Mexican-inspired restaurant and tequila bar, will feature artistic murals and contemporary cuisine. Grain & Berry, known for superfood bowls, toasts and smoothies, will round out the dining lineup.

Retail and Lifestyle
Seaside & Co. will combine coastal-inspired clothing, home décor and a wine bar and lounge. Hudson Square Boutique, founded by Wellen Park resident Danielle MacConel, will feature women’s resort wear and accessories. Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming will provide gourmet treats and grooming services for pets.

Health, Beauty and Wellness
James Griffith Salon will offer full-service styling and color treatments. Club Pilates will provide low-impact workouts for all skill levels. The Mattamy Homes Design Center will guide homebuyers through flooring, cabinetry, fixtures and finishes to personalize their homes.

Professional Offices
AvSKY, a private aviation brokerage, will join several new professional tenants, including Allstate Fisher Family Insurance, J&B Insurance Partners and Mattamy Homes’ Southwest Florida Division headquarters.

Phase II of Downtown Wellen includes two mixed-use, two-story buildings totaling 44,000 square feet, designed by Trapolin-Peer Architects of New Orleans. The ground floors will house restaurants and retail, with professional offices above.

The Wellmar Hotel, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio property, will also join downtown. The hotel will feature more than 120 rooms and a full-service rooftop bar. Future additions include new luxury apartments and a 2-acre fenced dog park with agility equipment, open space and shaded seating areas.

Wellen Park officials said the expansion continues their mission to foster community connections and provide spaces where residents can live, work and socialize in one place.

The post Wellen Park announces new retail and dining destinations in Downtown Wellen Phase II appeared first on Englewood Review.