Benderson Development is planning a 52-acre mixed-use project in Wellen Park, extending the its footprint into one of the country’s top-selling master-planned communities—No. 6, in fact, according to the latest rankings.
The development, on South Tamiami Trail at the intersection of West Villages Parkway, will bring roughly 500,000 square feet of retail, dining, entertainment and services. Construction is in the early planning stages and is expected to begin in late 2026 or early 2027. According to county records, Benderson Development purchased the vacant land site from Mattamy Thomas Ranch LLC last month for $23,403,800.
While site plans and tenant rosters are still being finalized, Shaun Benderson, managing director of the mega-development firm, says the intent is to build what the company describes as a “first-class regional shopping and dining destination” that functions as more than a conventional shopping center.
“When we say ‘first-class,’ we’re talking about the quality of the experience from the moment a guest arrives,” Benderson says. “That includes beautiful landscaping, thoughtfully designed public spaces, and a mix of retail, dining and services. It will be a place to gather, meet friends, enjoy a meal, walk your dog or spend an afternoon exploring.”…