“Once pure country”, that’s how some remember the land where Westchase now stands. Imagine cattle ranches stretching as far as the eye could see. No major roads. Not many stores. This was before Westchase was born.
Today we are in Westchase. It is a vibrant community in Hillsborough County. It has a rich history and many amenities. Westchase’s story began in 1991. Hillsborough County Commissioners approved its construction. New development started on September 15 of that year.
Hal Gastler was one of Westchase’s first homeowners in 1992. He admitted that he couldn’t imagine Westchase becoming what it is today. Now, Westchase has over 3500 homes. It is a master-planned community. You can easily reach it from the Veterans Expressway. You might even see it on the local news weather maps. It stands alongside Brandon and Temple Terrace.
Westchase comprises 29 neighborhoods. These feature Florida-style homes. Some areas have neo-traditional designs with alleys and large front porches. You will also find urban-style apartments in mixed-use retail areas.
Christine Kwan moved to Westchase in 2001. She says she wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. Westchase is the kind of place where you know your neighbors. Friendships easily form here. It’s a wonderful place to raise children.
Westchase has hundreds of acres of preserved land. It also features two Swim and Tennis Centers. There are also two playgrounds. An elementary school and a middle school are within its borders. You will see runners, walkers, and cyclists along Linebaugh Avenue. This tree-lined street runs east to west through Westchase.
Westchase boasts a great location. It is close to the airport and the beaches. When the Gastlers moved in, there wasn’t much in the immediate area. That quickly changed.
You do not really have to leave Westchase for anything. Everything is close by. There are many restaurants and a Publix supermarket in the community. The Citrus Park Mall is less than 5 miles away. West Park Village is a mixed retail and residential area. It has a walkable shopping and restaurant area. It feels like an urban setting.
Westchase is not just convenient. It feels like home. That feeling is special. Westchase somehow had that feeling from the start.
Chris Barrett publishes the World of Westchase. It is the community’s monthly newsmagazine. He remembers being surprised by the number of young families during his first Halloween. He had never seen so many children making friends. People greet you with smiles in Westchase. Conversations are easy. It feels like a small town. Many residents moved from the north. They say Westchase reminds them of their hometowns.
Westchase offers reclaimed water and natural gas. These are attractive selling points. The community’s upkeep makes it look brand new. Some places show their age but Westchase still looks fresh.
The Westchase Community Development District ensures high standards. The Home Owners Association takes deed restrictions seriously. This maintains home values.
Westchase also has a strong community spirit. Charitable events like the Great West Chase Race benefit local schools. The annual Thanksgiving Food Drive supports those in need.
Westchase welcomes people from many backgrounds. Young families, retirees, and military personnel all live here. The neighborhoods have a welcoming, Main Street feel. Block parties are common.
People who live in Westchase have a lot of pride in their community. That is great for everyone.