The Lady Lake Planning and Zoning Board on Monday evening considered a plan for the revitalization of La Plaza Grande North on the Historic Side of The Villages.
This will be a complete makeover for the original retail and commercial development that dates back to the days of Villages founder Harold Schwartz.
The 6.9 acres north of U.S. Hwy. 27/441 are owned by the Developer’s Lazy B Cattle Venture LTD and GTMJ Investment Group. It is home to a Circle K service station, El Ranchito restaurant, a U.S. Post Office and other businesses.
Residents of the Historic Side have long loved their Post Office, the only fully operating Post Office within the borders of The Villages.
However, residents may not be thrilled with the plans for their “new” Post Office.
It will be tucked in the far northern corner of the development with one way in and out for automobile traffic. A golf cart access is located nearby.
The Post Office is already a popular spot on the Historic Side, with drivers competing for parking spaces near the popular Mexican restaurant.
However, tucking it in the back with a limited number of nearby parking spaces could prove problematic, particularly during snowbird season. Many of those living on the Historic Side are elderly and coping with mobility issues.
The Lady Lake Planning & Zoning Board voted to forward the plan to the Lady Lake Commission which will take it under consideration in October.
