Crescent's First Residential Community in Florida Ready to Grow

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 13, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The launch of a new phase from Crescent Communities and the completion of existing home sites are bringing renewed energy to Oakland Park, Central Florida's first certified green community. Connected to Winter Garden's historic downtown by the scenic West Orange Trail, the community features magnificent live oaks, scenic views of Lake Apopka and Crescent's signature approach to place-making.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130402/CL87220LOGO )

"Oakland Park captures the spirit of great community development, so it was a natural choice for Crescent's first residential community in Florida," said John Classe, vice president of Crescent Communities' residential group. "It highlights the area's open spaces, promotes healthy living and respects the environment. It connects residents to downtown Winter Garden while maintaining its unspoiled charm." 

Crescent Communities purchased the partially developed Oakland Park in fall 2012. The first phase, which includes 137 home sites, is nearing completion. Prices for homes in phase one start in the mid to high $200s. Phase two will include 80 lots, with many home sites available for sale in early 2014. Home prices for phase two have not been determined.

Situated on 258 acres between the historic communities of Winter Garden and Oakland, Oakland Park maintains the Old Florida feel of the land and green spaces. It features the extensive West Orange Trail system, lake views for many homes and a natural canopy of majestic live oaks that have been preserved and relocated throughout the community. Residents have many opportunities to enjoy an active lifestyle, from meeting neighbors and biking on the trails to walking the dog.

As it moves forward with development, Crescent is transforming Oakland Park into a master-planned community, working with the natural landscape to help residents enjoy a rewarding, balanced life and connect with their neighbors.  

"Oakland Park is a beautiful setting, and with the additional home sites, we envision a new level of energy coming to this community," said Classe. "It offers a lifestyle that appeals to families looking for social opportunities, outdoor experiences and a chance to make lasting connections."

The architecture of Oakland Park, reminiscent of the pre-1940s era, is inspired by historic homes in the region. Design features such as outward-facing interiors and rear-facing garages create a pedestrian-friendly feel, and large front porches encourage interaction between neighbors. A mixture of detached and attached residences adds to the community's welcoming atmosphere.

"Crescent's place-making model values authentic experiences, simple pleasures and a strong sense of community," Classe said. "From long talks in front porch rockers to shared walks on the beautiful nature trails and visits to the great small towns just up the road, Oakland Park is all about helping people connect with their neighbors and the environment."

Oakland Park earned Certified Green Development designation from the prestigious Florida Green Building Coalition. This achievement recognizes the community's commitment to preserving the area's trees, supporting the health of the area's lakes and providing residents with activities and events within walking distance from their homes as well as a place that is friendly, affordable to operate and pleasant to live in.  

Though Oakland Park is Crescent's first residential community in Florida, the company has a strong presence in the state, with multifamily communities and commercial properties in Orlando and Tampa.

"We have always had great confidence in the Florida market, and as home buyers re-enter the marketplace, we are experiencing growing interest in well-planned communities where families can live a balanced life," said Andy Carmody, president of Crescent's residential group. "As we continue to develop Oakland Park, we'll have an eye toward the future and additional opportunities to build communities that fulfill people's needs and desires."

About Crescent Communities

Founded in 1969 in Charlotte, Crescent Communities is a diversified real estate investment, development and operating company dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people through sustainable multifamily, residential and commercial communities and responsible land management. Crescent's portfolio today includes 22 master-planned communities, including its signature Palmetto Bluff, as well as 15 multifamily projects with 4,295 units under construction or in planning/pre-development. The company owns and manages approximately 42,118 acres, including 800 acres zoned for commercial use.

SOURCE Crescent Communities