New town announces retail center

BABCOCK RANCH — Residents of Babcock Ranch, the new town under development in northeast Lee and southeast Charlotte counties, will soon enjoy the convenience of a new shopping center.

Developer Kitson & Partners has released plans for Crescent B Commons, an 85,600-square-foot shopping center anchored by a major grocery store at a new entrance to the country’s first solar-powered town, according to a statement. 

The 51,447-square-foot grocery store, unnamed in the statement, includes a drive-through pharmacy. The shopping center offers in-line leasing opportunities for 18,200 square feet, and three available outparcels totaling 14,653 square feet are suitable for retail or restaurant uses. The estimated opening date for the center is first quarter 2021, the release adds. 

“We’re looking forward to offering Babcock Ranch residents the conveniences of additional services and shopping,” says Thomas Hoban, president and CIO of Kitson & Partners, in a statement. “Crescent B Commons will align with the Babcock Ranch vision and vernacular style. We also are planning an autonomous vehicle pick-up and drop-off area to provide additional convenience.”

Developed by Kitson & Partners, the town of Babcock Ranch will be 18,000 acres, half of which is set aside as greenways, parks and lakes. The town recently announced Babcock National, a new golf and country club. Homes in Babcock Ranch start in the $190,000s.