“No place stays the same,” developer Frank Starkey has said. “The question isn’t whether it’s going to change or not. The question is whether it’s going to change for the better or not.”
Downtown New Port Richey is in one of those moments. Storefronts that sat empty for years have tenants again, and sidewalks that went quiet after five o’clock now carry people into the evening.
Borrowed From Places That Got It Right
The Central on Orange Lake takes its cues from places that solved this centuries ago: the curve of Bath’s Royal Crescent, where buildings wrap around shared green space, and Parisian avenues, where buildings mirror one another and frame a view at the end. Central Avenue follows that idea, with buildings that answer each other, long narrow balconies, and a straight line to Orange Lake, with the tower residences in the Sarazen and Irwin buildings standing as the gateway.
Better, Not Simply Bigger
Starkey, who grew up in New Port Richey and sits on the national board of the Congress for the New Urbanism, puts it simply: the goal is to guide change “in ways that are going to make it better, not simply bigger.” Downtown does not have to choose between staying the same and losing what makes it worth living in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who developed The Central on Orange Lake?
Frank Starkey’s People Places, which completed the community in 2019.
What inspired the design of The Central?
Bath’s Royal Crescent and Parisian avenues, guided by new urbanist principles.
Life at The Central
Take a look at our community amenities, check floor plans and availability, or schedule a tour. You can also call or text 727.478.0770 to learn more about life here.
