Construction has commenced on a unique 4-acre lagoon at the heart of a new residential development in Parrish, signaling a novel lifestyle proposition for local residents. The initiative, spearheaded by Metro Development Group, aims to create the first ‘lagoon community’ in Manatee County.
At a recent groundbreaking event, Metro Development Group revealed plans to pair the lagoon with various commercial amenities adjacent to the community, located off Moccasin Wallow Road. This development marks the company’s inaugural project in Manatee County and continues its strategy of incorporating lagoons as defining features in its projects. Lisa Gibbings, vice president of marketing and communications for Metro Development Group, emphasized that their lagoons ‘have redefined what it means to live in a master-planned community across Florida.’
The lagoon, central to the Seaire community, is designed to provide a ‘lagoon-centered lifestyle,’ likened to a perpetual vacation by Gibbings. It will be accessible to residents with a membership as well as to the general public for a daily fee ranging from $10 to $40, depending on the season. The facility will host a variety of amenities including a swim-up bar, TVs, a central lawn, and shaded areas. A dedicated crew of 100 staff will support the lagoon, coordinating frequent community events such as fitness classes and trivia nights. Additionally, rentals for cabanas and corporate gatherings will be available, enhancing the community’s appeal as a social hub.
Seaire represents the fifth lagoon venture by Metro Development Group on Florida’s west coast, joining other communities like Brightwater in Fort Myers and Southshore Bay in Wimauma. The Parrish lagoon is projected to be operational by late 2025. Meanwhile, current Seaire residents will receive discounted entry to the Southshore Bay lagoon, bridging the gap until the local lagoon’s opening.
The Seaire community is set to feature approximately 3,000 homes, including a mix of townhouses, single-family, and estate homes, catering to a diverse range of homebuyers from first-time purchasers to retirees. Initial home sales are underway, with more completions expected by year’s end, as reported by Julie Kremner, Realtor Liaison for Metro Development Group.
The community boasts extensive green spaces, trails, workout facilities, and recreational areas across its 640-acre expanse. A tunnel under Carter Road will facilitate easy access to nearby commercial spaces, reducing the need for vehicle travel. This aspect aligns with the developers’ commitment to integrating convenient shopping, dining, and service options within the vicinity.
Commercial developments alongside the residential area will be managed by Casto, a seasoned developer known for projects like Center Point at Waterside in Lakewood Ranch. Massimo Rastrelli, Casto’s senior development manager, indicated that the lagoon’s unique appeal has already attracted potential retailers and service providers, though specifics remain undisclosed.
Seaire’s development represents a significant addition to Manatee County’s housing and lifestyle offerings. With its innovative lagoon concept and comprehensive community planning, Seaire aims to meet the needs of modern homebuyers seeking an integrated living environment.
Source: Businessobserverfl
