Curry Commerce Center marks grand opening at Babcock Ranch

Tampa Bay Buccaneers kicker Chase McLaughlin joined Babcock Ranch founder Syd Kitson to celebrate the grand opening of Curry Commerce Center during a public kickoff event on Thursday, May 28. Nearly 400 prospective businesses, entrepreneurs, residents and the community joined together for the celebration in Babcock Ranch.

The kickoff event featured an exclusive first look at Babcock Ranch’s newest commercial development while highlighting the continued growth and economic momentum of America’s first solar-powered town, which recently surpassed 6,000 homes sold.

Developed by Kitson & Partners, Curry Commerce Center is a 255,000-square-foot, eight-building commercial flex and light industrial complex designed to support a broad mix of businesses, including office, showroom, warehouse, service, distribution, trade and light manufacturing users. The development represents another major milestone in Babcock Ranch’s long-term vision to create a fully integrated hometown where residents can live, work and play.

“Babcock Ranch was always envisioned as far more than a residential community,” said Syd Kitson, chairman and CEO of Kitson & Partners and founder of Babcock Ranch. “As our population and business base continue to grow, Curry Commerce Center creates new opportunities for companies seeking modern, strategically located commercial space in one of the most dynamic growth corridors in Southwest Florida.”

Located near State Road 31 with convenient regional access, Curry Commerce Center is intended to attract both new and expanding businesses looking to serve the growing population in Charlotte and Lee counties. The project also supports Babcock Ranch’s ongoing economic development efforts focused on job creation and business recruitment.

Babcock Ranch continues to accelerate commercial growth with last year’s completion of The Shoppes at Yellow Pine, home to a mix of national and regional retailers and restaurants and the new Tampa General Hospital urgent care center. B Street, a vibrant walkable plaza featuring dining, retail, commercial, office and residential spaces amidst abundant green space, is currently under construction. Florida Gulf Coast University is building a state-of-the-art research center in MidTown, where construction for Babcock Ranch’s second Publix-anchored shopping center is well underway.

The football-themed event featured a meet-and-greet with McLaughlin and Kitson, tours of the showroom and tenant spaces and a special surprise performance by the Island Coast High School Marching Band. Guests also enjoyed tailgate-inspired food, games, giveaways and interactive activities.

The event also spotlighted a limited-time leasing incentive for new and relocating businesses at Curry Commerce Center. The first 10 new leases signed may qualify for up to one year of free rent, subject to terms and availability.