GAINESVILLE — "Where to Retire" magazine is out with its biennial list of the country’s 50 best master-planned communities - and it includes Cresswind at Lake Lanier.
The publication says the listing highlights "the continuing evolution of active-adult and master-planned developments into amenity-rich neighborhoods that foster a true sense of community." The list is described as the only one of its kind in the nation, focusing on communities rather than locales and featuring first-person testimonials by residents. “The Short List: 50 Best Master-Planned Communities in the United States” is in the July/August issue.
The selections in 16 states won their place in the top 50 by offering an array of amenities such as a rooftop bar overlooking the lake at Cresswind, a remote-controlled airplane flying field at On Top of the World Communities in Florida and skeet shooting or fly fishing at Cordillera Ranch in Texas. Others offer festivals, farmers markets and workplaces inside the gates, as well as dog parks, walking trails and equestrian facilities – options far beyond the traditional golf courses and swimming pools.
“More often than not, the retirees we interviewed praised the sense of community they felt within their neighborhood,” said Editor Annette Fuller. “For these retirees, the perks of master-planned living are much more than the comfortable or inventive housing options, and more than just a busy day of activities. By participating in all that the community has to offer, they are finding like-minded people, building new lifestyles and establishing friendships, often with an unexpected ease.”
Nearly a year ago, editors began gathering and evaluating information on more than 100 communities across the nation. The chosen neighborhoods offer homes that vary in price, from manufactured homes starting in the $80,000s to site-built, single-family homes that begin in the $140,000s. Almost half the developments are, like Cresswind, active-adult communities, where residents must meet minimum age requirements. The communities are not ranked, but rather profiled in alphabetical order by state. Also, a two-page chart gives a snapshot of all 50 choices and a guide to their amenities.
In addition to Cresswind, three other locales in Georgia also made the list: The Georgia Club in Barrow County, Soleil Laurel Canyon in Canton, and Sun City Peachtree in Griffin.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2015/6/318811/cresswind-at-lake-lanier-named-one-of-countys-best-master-planned-communities