To the Editor:
I’m writing in response to Phyllis’ letter regarding overpopulation. I agree that Ocala has become overpopulated, especially in the six years that we’ve lived here. I have to say that it is because the government is in the pockets of greedy developers…not only here, but in most of Florida.
Where we live, we had lots of wooded, undeveloped lots, and now there are houses and more being built daily. Ocala has lost its rural flavor.
As far as amenities go, businesses grow where the population supports them. That’s why we now have two Chick-fil-A’s on State Road 200. There are some other market choices besides Publix and Walmart. There’s a Key Food on 200, and we also have a Save a Lot, Earth Fare, and Bravo.
There’s still a Winn-Dixie in Marion Oaks, and let’s not forget the Target on 200, in addition to smaller, more ethnic markets. Fresh NY-style bagels are available at Bagelicious over by Earth Fare, Burlington, and Best Buy.
The restaurant scene is growing with the downtown hub and more restaurants along 200. If you’re looking for Italian restaurants on 200, besides the chains of Olive Garden and Carraba’s, there’s Milano, Marcelina’s, Sammy’s, and even more if you’re willing to venture a little off 200, including a wide variety of eateries on State Road 40 east of downtown.
That’s the local stuff. Going west to Dunnellon and beyond, your choices increase, and Gainesville is not that far north for increasing shopping and dining.
One of the attractions of Ocala for us was its central location for day trips to Tampa, Orlando, St. Augustine, Daytona, Jacksonville, and more. Citrus Springs is close and has some wonderful offerings for a more laid back day trip as well. Don’t forget that the expansion of the World Equestrian Center is also bringing more amenities closer to home.
David Kruchkow
Ocala resident