Lakewood Ranch Set to Expand Further East: Sarasota County Approves Major Development

by Adam Miller

Lakewood Ranch Set to Expand Further East: Sarasota County Approves Major Development

Big changes are on the horizon for Lakewood Ranch, as Sarasota County has officially approved a major expansion into Old Miakka. The County Commission’s decision to rezone over 2,200 acres marks a significant step toward the development of Lakewood Ranch Southeast, a project that could eventually bring 5,000 new homes to the area.

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A Shift in Zoning

The land, located east of Interstate 75 between University Parkway and Fruitville Road, was previously designated as Open Use Rural and Open Use Agriculture. These classifications allowed for minimal housing density—one home per 10 acres and one home per 160 acres, respectively. However, with the rezoning to Residential, Single-Family-2, the land can now accommodate 3.5 homes per acre, greatly increasing the number of potential residences.

Despite strong public opposition, the County Commission approved the changes with a 3-2 vote. Commissioners Joe Nuender, Teresa Mast, and Ron Cutsinger supported the rezoning, expressing confidence in Lakewood Ranch’s ability to build and manage high-quality communities. Meanwhile, Commissioners Mark Smith and Tom Knight opposed the decision, citing concerns over stormwater management, the impact on local wetlands, and the increased traffic burden on Fruitville Road.

What’s Next for Lakewood Ranch Southeast?

Tuesday’s approval only addressed half of a 4,100-acre parcel owned by Schroeder-Manatee Ranch Inc. (SMR), the developer behind Lakewood Ranch. Further rezoning requests for the remaining land are expected in the coming months. Once completed, this expansion will push Lakewood Ranch’s boundaries further east along Fruitville Road, adding thousands of new homes to the already rapidly growing community.

Legal Challenges and SMR’s Response

Just one day after securing county approval, SMR received another legal victory. The Florida Second District Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the developer in a lawsuit brought by two Old Miakka residents who aimed to halt the expansion. The plaintiffs argued that the development contradicts Sarasota County’s Comprehensive Plan, which prioritizes agricultural preservation. However, the appeals court upheld the lower court’s ruling, reinforcing SMR’s right to proceed with its vision for Lakewood Ranch.

“Schroeder-Manatee Ranch (SMR) has successfully defended its right to extend the vision of Lakewood Ranch,” the company stated in a news release. SMR President and CEO Rex Jensen reaffirmed the company’s commitment, stating, “When our rights and proven approach are unreasonably challenged, we will stand firm in defending our track record and our commitment to building a community that serves both present and future generations.”

The Debate Continues

While some see this expansion as a natural step for one of the nation’s fastest-growing master-planned communities, others worry about the long-term effects on traffic, infrastructure, and the environment. The debate over how much and how fast Lakewood Ranch should grow is far from over.

Do you agree with this plan? What do you think we can do about the rapid expansion of new developments in our area? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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