North Port, Florida, is emerging as a dynamic destination for both businesses and families, with its vibrant culture, rich attractions, and significant infrastructure improvements. Boasting a population of over 85,000—and growing—this fast-developing city in southwest Florida is quickly becoming a must-see destination, thanks to popular attractions like the Atlanta Braves spring training facility at CoolToday Park, the North Port Aquatic Center, and Warm Mineral Springs Park.
In his 2025 State of the City Address delivered at the North Port Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual meeting at Suncoast Technical College, City Manager Jerome Fletcher outlined a bold vision for the city’s future. Celebrating North Port’s 65th birthday in 2024—a milestone since its incorporation in 1959—Fletcher highlighted the impressive progress made over the past year, including the arrival of 286 new businesses and significant advancements in healthcare infrastructure.
"Having our own hospitals means that we are not just a sleepy little town anymore. We're building a community," Fletcher said, emphasizing the transformative impact of these developments. One of the key initiatives mentioned was the update to the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC), a move described as game-changing. The ULDC update not only aligns local regulations with state and federal law but also opens up new avenues for commercial development that will support North Port’s continued growth.
Fletcher also spotlighted major infrastructure projects slated to begin this year, including the Road Rehabilitation Project, enhancements to the Water Control Structure, and the Price Boulevard Widening Project. Despite the financial challenges associated with these continuous improvements, Fletcher stressed the importance of balancing fiscal responsibility with the will of the voters, underscoring the city’s commitment to sustainable development.
Recognizing the critical role of community engagement, Fletcher urged residents to "come along for the journey with us" as North Port builds on its strong foundation. Looking ahead to 2025, he expressed confidence in the city’s future, driven by a strong sense of community spirit and the dedication of the city team.
As North Port continues to evolve, its blend of attractive amenities, robust economic growth, and progressive infrastructure projects makes it a beacon of opportunity for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.