Main Street in Lakewood Ranch has undergone some major changes.
For the first time since opening in December 2005, the street is 100 percent occupied. It's a drastic change from how the shopping and office space plaza first started out.
Years ago, dozens of stores sat empty, as did parking spaces. But new businesses have moved in, and so have visitors. More than 150,000 square feet of retail and office space is full.
"I think I see a lot more people on the streets, and it's lovely," said Laurie Candee, who is building a new home nearby.
There are more people hanging out in Main Street, and there are more businesses too. From restaurants to a movie theater to the new USF Sarasota-Manatee Culinary School Lab, Main Street offers a variety of family-friendly things to do.
Residents said they are happy to see the activity.
“”It's also nice to see the merchants being successful because that's what makes a great community," Larry Candee said.
Local realtors said the 100 percent occupancy rate is new. The final lease was signed Friday.
Lakewood Ranch has been recognized as one of the top 10 bestselling master-planned communities in the country. For more information, visit: http://www.lakewoodranch.com.