Sugarloaf Mountain Development Moves Forward in Minneola
Richland Communities is ramping up development at the Sugarloaf Mountain master-planned community in Minneola, Florida. After selling two sections (Pods 7 & 8) to Lennar in 2023, Richland is now prepping the next phase.
Lennar’s Purchase and Plans
Lennar paid $77.2 million for Pods 7 and 8, which will offer 812 homesites. Pod 7, named Lookout Ridge, will have 325 homes on various lot sizes. Pod 8, dubbed Sugarloaf Ridge, will have 487 homes with similar lot options. This section will be developed in phases and include an extension of N. Hancock Road.
New Developments: Pine Ridge and Whispering Winds
The next phase focuses on Parcel B, which has existing lots branching off from Mountain Club Drive. Richland is planning two new subdivisions here:
- Pine Ridge at Sugarloaf Mountain: This development north of Del Webb Minneola will feature 178 single-family homes and include a park, storm water ponds, and a water treatment plant.
- Whispering Winds at Sugarloaf Mountain: Located across Mountain Club Drive, this subdivision will offer 206 homes, a park, and open space.
Both neighborhoods will have access points from N. Hancock Road and Mountain Club Drive. Amenities will be determined by the final developer(s).
Sugarloaf Mountain PUD Details
Richland acquired the 1,420-acre Sugarloaf Mountain project in 2015 and received approval for a three-phase Planned Unit Development (PUD). The overall plan allows for 2,434 homes, 120,000 square feet of commercial space, a future school site, and a fire station.
Existing Lots and Phase 2
With existing and proposed lots, there’s space for 424 additional homes east of Hancock Road in Phase 2. Richland anticipates increased interest in these larger lots once the new development and road extension are complete. Construction on the Hancock Road extension is expected to begin soon.
Phase 3: The Final Chapter
The final phase, located furthest north, will include 755 homes (with 125 multifamily units), a commercial center, a school, and a fire station.
Minneola Ridge Update
While developing Sugarloaf Mountain, Richland has also been working on another project in Minneola called Minneola Ridge. After revisions to reduce density and commercial space, the project was approved by the City Council in January 2024. Construction could begin in 2025.
Looking Ahead
The development order for Sugarloaf Mountain’s single-family homes, multifamily units, and commercial spaces will be determined by market demand. Richland is collaborating with a team of consultants on both Minneola projects.