Pasco County

Pasco County, located in the state of Florida, is a wonderful place to live, work, and play. With its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and vibrant communities, it's not hard to see why so many people are choosing to call Pasco County their home. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, Pasco County has something to offer everyone. In this blog, we'll explore some of the many reasons why you might want to move to Pasco County, and take a closer look at the diverse areas within this beautiful part of Florida.

Pasco County is an excellent place to live, work, and play. With its beautiful weather, affordable living, growing economy, diverse communities, and rich culture, it's no wonder that many people are choosing to call it their home. Whether looking for a peaceful rural community or a bustling urban center, you're sure to find the perfect place to call home in Pasco County.

Pasco County has a rich and interesting history dating back to before its incorporation in 1887. The county was formed from a division of Hernando County and was named after Samuel Pasco, a U.S. Senator from Florida who played a major role in the state's political and economic development.

The area that is now Pasco County was originally inhabited by the Tocobaga people, a Native American tribe that lived along the Gulf Coast of Florida. The arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century marked the beginning of a long period of European settlement in the area. Over the centuries, the land that is now Pasco County was home to Spanish missions, Seminole settlements, and small farming communities.

In the late 1800s, Pasco County was a growing agricultural area known for its citrus crops and cattle farming. The county's economy boomed in the early 1900s with the phosphate mining industry's growth and the railroads' arrival. During World War II, the county was home to several military installations, including Camp Keystone, a major training center for soldiers.

In recent decades, Pasco County has continued to grow and evolve, becoming one of the fastest-growing counties in Florida. Today, the county is a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and recreation, offering residents a high quality of life, excellent schools, and a diverse range of activities and attractions. From its rich history to its vibrant present, Pasco County is where the past, present, and future come together to create a truly special community.

Whether you're a long-time resident or a newcomer to the area, there's no denying the rich history and fascinating heritage of Pasco County. So if you're looking to explore the history of this beautiful part of Florida, take a trip down memory lane and discover all that Pasco County has to offer!

The 2020 census puts the population in Pasco County at more than 560,000 residents, with a population growth rate that continues to outpace the national average. The county seat is Dade City, and the largest city is New Port Richey. Government duties are conducted in both cities, ensuring residents have access to the services and resources they need to live, work, and play.

One of the defining characteristics of Pasco County is its diverse demographic makeup. The population is a mix of young professionals, families, retirees, and everything in between. This diversity is reflected in the many different communities and neighborhoods that make up the county, each with its own unique character and charm.

Whether you're looking for a bustling urban center, a quiet suburban neighborhood, or a peaceful rural community, you'll find it in Pasco County. With its growing population and strong economy, the county is poised to continue its upward trajectory for many years. So if you're looking for a place to call home, look no further than Pasco County, Florida!

The government of Pasco County is a strong and effective system that works to serve the needs of the county's residents. At the center of this system is the Board of County Commissioners, the county's governing body. The board comprises five members: a chair, a vice chair, and three commissioners. These elected officials work together to make decisions on behalf of the county, overseeing a wide range of services and programs that impact the lives of residents.

The Board of County Commissioners is responsible for many aspects of county government, including the budget, land use and zoning, public safety, and more. They work closely with county staff and other elected officials to ensure that the needs of residents are being met and that the county is moving in the right direction. The board is also responsible for ensuring that county government is transparent and accountable to the people it serves.

In addition to the Board of County Commissioners, there are other elected officials in Pasco County who play an important role in government. These include the Sheriff, the Property Appraiser, the Tax Collector, and the Supervisor of Elections, among others. Each of these officials is elected to a four-year term and is responsible for specific aspects of county government.

Overall, the government of Pasco County is a well-functioning system that works to meet the needs of residents. From the Board of County Commissioners to the various elected officials, the county is governed by people dedicated to serving the community and making Pasco County a great place to live. So if you're interested in learning more about how the county is governed, explore the many resources available online or reach out to your local government representatives.

Pasco County has two government centers located in both Dade City and New Port Richey. This allows the county to effectively serve its residents in both the central and western parts of the county. The Board of County Commissioners and other government agencies conduct their duties in both cities, making it convenient for residents to access county services regardless of where they live. With this arrangement, Pasco County is able to ensure that its residents receive high-quality government services and support, no matter where they are located within the county.

Pasco County is a wonderful place to call home, with a diverse mix of communities that offer something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a bustling urban center, a quiet suburban neighborhood, or a peaceful rural community, you'll find it in Pasco.

One of the many things that set Pasco County apart is its incredible growth. In recent years, the county has seen a surge of new Master Planned Developments, with many more planned for the future. Some popular communities include Starkey Ranch, Asturia, Bexley, Estancia, Watergrass, Epperson, Mirada, Angeline, and more.

These new communities offer a wide range of homes, from stylish apartments and townhouses to spacious single-family homes. They also feature a wide range of amenities, including parks, playgrounds, community centers, and more. This makes them a great choice for families, young professionals, and retirees.

In addition to these new communities, there are many other attractive options throughout the county. Whether you're looking for a historic neighborhood, a quiet coastal town, or a rural area with plenty of land, you'll find it in Pasco. This diversity is one of the things that makes Pasco such a great place to live.

If you're considering moving to Pasco County, talk to a Rocks Realty area specialist. They can help you find the best fit for your needs and can provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. With its diverse communities, strong economy, and beautiful weather, Pasco is a great place to call home – and it's waiting for you!

 

Incorporated municipalities of Pasco County.

 

County map from https://www.census.gov

Unincorporated communities

• Blanton
• Branchborough
• Darby
• Gulf Harbors

Pasco County has emerged as a thriving hub for business and commerce in Florida. With its prime location at the center of the greater Tampa Bay metropolitan area, businesses of all sizes are discovering the many advantages of setting up shop in Pasco.

One of the biggest draws for businesses is the county's transportation network. Pasco is home to major interstate highways, rail lines, and air transportation, making it easy for businesses to connect with customers, suppliers, and partners around the world. The county is also home to a deep-sea port, providing companies with easy access to international markets.

In addition to its transportation infrastructure, Pasco is also home to a highly skilled and diverse workforce. This talented and innovative workforce is a major driver of the county's economy, helping to power businesses of all types and sizes.

One of the industries that is thriving in Pasco County is high-tech. The county is home to a growing number of cutting-edge companies that are developing innovative technologies and products. The aviation and aerospace industry is also well-represented in Pasco, with many companies working to design, build, and maintain aircraft, satellites, and other cutting-edge technologies.

Manufacturing and business service providers are also thriving in Pasco County. Companies in these industries are leveraging the county's strategic location, transportation network, and skilled workforce to create high-quality products and services that are in demand around the world.

Finally, Pasco is also home to a thriving entrepreneurial community. Local entrepreneurs are starting new businesses, developing innovative products and services, and creating jobs in the process. These businesses are helping to drive the county's economy forward, and are a testament to the county's commitment to supporting new and growing businesses.

In conclusion, Pasco County is a great place for businesses of all sizes. With its prime location, excellent transportation network, diverse workforce, and thriving business community, Pasco is the perfect place to start or grow a business.

Pasco County is known for its abundant recreation opportunities, making it a great place for residents and visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. The western part of the county, in particular, is home to many of the county's top recreation activities and attractions.

One of the biggest draws for recreation enthusiasts is the Gulf of Mexico, which borders western Pasco. The county is home to several beautiful beaches, including Hudson Beach, Robert K. Rees Memorial Park, and SunWest Park. These beaches offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and boating.

For those interested in water sports, Pasco County is the perfect place. The Gulf of Mexico and many of the county's lakes and rivers offer kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing opportunities. The county is also home to several marinas and boat ramps, making it easy for residents to get out on the water.

In addition to water-based activities, Pasco County is also home to many parks and trails that offer hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities. Some of the county's most popular parks include Starkey Wilderness Park, Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, and Withlacoochee State Trail. These parks offer miles of trails that wind through beautiful natural landscapes and offer opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy nature.

For those who love sports, Pasco County has a lot to offer. The county is home to several golf courses, including Fox Hollow Golf Course, New Port Richey Golf Course, and Silverado Golf & Country Club. Additionally, the county is home to several sports complexes, including Sims Park and Michael Annett Park, which offer baseball, softball, soccer, and other sports opportunities.

Pasco County is also home to several events and festivals throughout the year, including the Pasco County Fair, the Greek Festival of Pasco County, and the West Pasco Art Guild Show. These events offer opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the county's rich culture and history. 

Recreational areas include Hudson Beach, The New Port Richey Recreation & Aquatic Center, Odessa Community Park, Moon Lake Park, Land o' Lakes Heritage Park, Land o' Lakes Recreation Complex, Robert K Rees Memorial Park, Veterans Memorial Park, J. Ben Harrill Recreation Complex, the Jay Starkey Preserve, Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, a section of the Suncoast Trail, a section of the Withlacoochee State Trail, Conner Preserve, Cypress Creek Preserve, Withlacoochee River Park, and Crews Lake Wilderness Park. Kayaking, canoeing, sailing, power boating, jet skiing, and fishing are popular along the coast, and large tracts are preserved from development.

Environmental lands acquired for preservation include Aripeka Sandhills Preserve, Boy Scout Preserve, Cypress Creek Preserve, Pasco County, Jumping Gully Preserve, Pasco Palms Preserve, Tierra Del Sol Preserve and Upper Pithlachascotee River Preserve.

In conclusion, Pasco County is great for those who love the great outdoors. Pasco is a recreation haven with its beautiful beaches, abundant water sports opportunities, parks, trails, and sports facilities. Whether you're looking to enjoy nature, play sports, or just have a good time, Pasco County has something for everyone.

Pasco County is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and provides plenty of opportunities for cyclists to enjoy the beautiful scenery and get some exercise. The county boasts numerous bike trails, both paved and unpaved, that are perfect for leisurely rides, training rides, and even mountain biking.

One of the most popular trails is the Suncoast Trail, a 42-mile paved trail that winds through the heart of Pasco County and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding countryside. This trail is great for a relaxing ride and is also used by cyclists for training and competition.

For mountain bikers, the Croom Wildlife Management Area in northeastern Pasco County is a must-visit destination. This area features over 40 miles of challenging and diverse terrain, including everything from fast and flowy singletrack to technical and rocky sections.

In addition, there are many other bike trails throughout Pasco County that cater to riders of all levels and provide a great way to get outside, stay active, and enjoy the beauty of Florida's west coast. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, Pasco County has something to offer.

Pasco County is a great place for families and youth sports enthusiasts. Hockey and youth sports are especially popular in the county, and there are many opportunities for young athletes to get involved and improve their skills.

For hockey fans, Pasco County is home to the Florida Jr. Blades Hockey Association. This association offers youth hockey programs for players of all ages and skill levels. From beginners to advanced players, the Florida Jr. Blades Hockey Association provides a supportive and inclusive environment for young athletes to learn and grow.

In addition to hockey, Pasco County offers many other youth sports programs and leagues. Youth soccer, baseball, softball, basketball, and football are just a few options available to young athletes. The county is home to several sports complexes and parks that provide fields and courts for these programs, as well as a supportive network of volunteers and coaches who work to make these programs successful.

Pasco County also offers several youth sports academies and camps, providing young athletes opportunities to improve their skills, learn new techniques, and make new friends. These academies and camps are led by experienced coaches and trainers who are dedicated to helping young athletes reach their full potential.

For parents and families, Pasco County provides many resources to help support young athletes. Whether it's finding a local sports program, volunteering as a coach or assistant, or simply providing transportation to games and practices, families in Pasco County are an essential part of the youth sports community.

In conclusion, Pasco County is a great place for youth sports enthusiasts, especially those interested in hockey. With its many programs, leagues, academies, and resources, Pasco is a supportive and inclusive environment for young athletes to grow and succeed.

Additionally, Pasco County is well-connected to the rest of Florida through several major highways and transportation options, making it easy for residents to get around.

One of the major highways in Pasco County is the Suncoast Parkway, which runs through the county and connects to other major highways in Florida, including I-75 and I-275. This makes it easy for residents to travel north and south throughout the state. Pasco County is also easily accessible via major highways like State Road 54 and State Road 52, which provide convenient connections to Tampa Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and beyond. The proximity to St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport and Tampa International Airport offers residents and visitors easy access to destinations both near and far. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or exploring new sights and sounds, getting around Pasco County is a breeze.

In addition to highways and airports, Pasco County has several public transportation options. Pasco County Public Transportation provides bus service throughout the county, making it easy for residents to get around without a car. There are also several private shuttle services and taxi companies that operate in the county. Pasco County Public Transportation provides bus service throughout Pasco County. 

For those who prefer to bike or walk, Pasco County has several trails and greenways that are perfect for getting outside and exploring the local area. These trails connect to parks, shopping centers, and residential areas, making it easy for residents to get where they need to go on foot or by bike.

In conclusion, Pasco County is well-connected and offers a variety of transportation options for its residents. Whether you prefer to drive, take public transportation, bike, or walk, there are plenty of options available in Pasco County.

CSX operates three rail lines within the county. Dade City and Zephyrhills are served with a line from Plant City. Amtrak formerly provided passenger rail service to Dade City on that line, but the stop was terminated in late 2004. The other two lines include the Brooksville Subdivision which runs close to US 41 and the Vitis Subdivision, which runs southeast into Lakeland.

Notable abandoned railroad lines include a former branch of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad northwest of Trilacoochee (formerly Owensboro Junction) that became part of the Withlacoochee State Trail, a segment of the Seaboard Air Line Railroad branch stretching from Zephyrhills to Trilacoochee, the former Tampa and Thonotosassa Railroad along the east side of US 301 that spanned from Sulphur Springs to Zephyrhills, part of the Orange Belt Railway which became the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad which ran from St. Petersburg and entered the county in what is today Trinity to Trilby (abandoned during the early to mid-1970s), and a branch of the Seaboard Air Line that ran through Holiday, Elfers and into New Port Richey.

The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad until 1957 ran the Southland through Trilby and Tarpon Springs, en route to St. Petersburg. The train was unusual for providing passenger service direct from Chicago (via the Pennsylvania), Cincinnati and Atlanta on a direct route through the western part of the Florida peninsula, bypassing Jacksonville. The Seaboard Coast Line (a merged line from the Atlantic Coast Line and the Seaboard Coast Line) until 1971 ran a local train (the last passenger train for the region north of St. Petersburg and west of Dade City) through those towns from Jacksonville and Gainesville, bound for St. Petersburg. Prior to the 1967 merger for the SCL that service had been the western branch of the ACL's Champion from New York City. Until 1968 the SCL ran its Sunland from Washington, DC and Portsmouth, VA to Tampa.

The SAL Tarpon Springs branch line from Tarpon Junction 14 miles west of Tampa to Elfers and thence to Newport Richey to New Port Richey was lost its passenger service and became listed as freight only between 1932 and 1938.^[28][29] The freight branch was truncated to Elfers in 1943. The tracks from Elfers and Chemical (an industrial area in the extreme southwest part of the county along the Anclote River west of Holiday) to Tarpon Springs were removed in the late 1980s, leaving the western half of the county without freight rail service.

•  Interstate 75 runs north and south across the eastern part of the county. Once a major connecting point with Tampa, I-75 has been made obsolete for western residents of the county by the Suncoast Parkway.
•  Suncoast Parkway enters the county in the south halfway between Gunn Highway and US 41, and ends in the far northern part of the county at County Line Road (Exit 37), The Suncoast Parkway is a recently constructed toll road that connects Pasco County with Hillsborough County, where it becomes the Veterans Expressway and heads directly into Tampa International Airport before reaching Interstate 275. SR 589 has four Pasco County exits: SR 54 (Exit 19), Ridge Road (Exit 25), SR 52 (Exit 27), and County Line Road (Exit 37).
•  U.S. Route 19 is a major commercial center running beside to the Gulf of Mexico on the western edge of the county, and used as a primary connecting route to cities down the west coast of Florida, including Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg to the south, as well as Spring Hill, Weeki Wachee, Homosassa and Crystal River to the north.
• 
   Alternate 19 is a former section of US 19 that runs closer to the Gulf of Mexico in Pinellas and southern Pasco County than US 19.
•  U.S. Route 41 (Land o' Lakes Boulevard) is the main south-to-north U.S. Highway through Central Pasco County. It enters the county from Lutz in Hillsborough County and serves as a commercial strip through most of Land o' Lakes. Further north the road becomes more rural, passing through Gowers Corner, and eventually enters Masaryktown at the Hernando County Line.
•  U.S. Route 98 runs northwest and southeast from Hernando County to Polk County. Concurrent with US 301 between Trilacoochee and Clinton Heights.
•  U.S. Route 301 (Fort King Highway/Gall Boulevard) is the main south-to-north U.S. highway in eastern Pasco County. It enters the county from Hillsborough River State Park in Hillsborough County and becomes the main road in Zephyrhills, Clinton Heights, and Dade City. North of Dade City, the road runs through Trilacoochee and Trilby before it enters Ridge Manor in Hernando County at a bridge over the Withlacoochee River.
•  State Road 39 runs northwest and southeast from Plant City into US 301 in Zephyrhills
•   County Road 41 (Fort King Highway/17th Street/21st Street/Blanton Road) begins as a hidden state road along US 301 until it branches off to the northwest as a county road in Zephyrhills and runs parallel to US 301 until it reaches Dade City. From here it moves further to the west through Blanton and Jessamine, and after crossing over I-75 curves back north into rural Hernando County where it becomes CR 541.
•  County Line Road (CR 578) is a major county road running entirely along the border with Hernando County beginning at US 19, intersects the Suncoast Parkway, and ends at US 41. Due to increased congestion, it is planned to be upgraded from two to four lanes, and possibly upgraded from a county road to a state road.
•  State Road 52 (Colonel Schrader Memorial Highway) an east–west route that runs primarily through the center of the county from US 19 in Bayonet Point to US 98–301 in Dade City.
•  State Road 54 (Gunn Highway/Fifth Avenue) another east–west road that runs through southern Pasco County, from US 19 near Holiday to US 301 in Zephyrhills.
•  State Road 56 is an east–west route that extends from SR 54 near Land o' Lakes, to just east of Bruce B. Downs Boulevard and the new campus of Pasco–Hernando State College in Wesley Chapel. The road was constructed in 2002, and is planned, as of 2016, to be extended to US 301 south of Zephyrhills.
•  State Road 575 the northernmost state road in Pasco County.
•  Bruce B. Downs Boulevard
•  Rowan Road/East Lake Road (CR 77)
•  Dale Mabry Highway
•  Moon Lake Road/Decubellis Road/Massachusetts Avenue (CR 587) (N)
•  Gunn Highway (CR 587) (S) is a short north and south extension of Gunn Highway(SR 54) that runs through Northern Hillsborough County towards Dale Mabry Highway and Busch Boulevard.
•  Little Road (CR 1) is a major four to six-lane county road in western Pasco County bypassing US 19 between southeast of Aripeka and Trinity.
•  Trinity Boulevard (CR 996)

Healthcare in Pasco County is accessible and of high quality, with numerous hospitals, clinics, and medical centers available to residents.

One of the largest healthcare providers in the county is BayCare Health System, which operates multiple hospitals and clinics in the area. Other notable healthcare providers in Pasco County include Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, and St. Joseph’s Hospital-North.

In addition to traditional hospital-based care, Pasco County is home to many other healthcare facilities, including rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. The county is also home to numerous Urgent Care centers, allowing residents to receive prompt medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions.

Healthcare in Pasco County is supported by numerous healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other medical specialists. The county is home to many medical practices, including family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, and specialty care, ensuring that residents have access to the care they need.

The Moffitt Cancer Center, one of the nation's top cancer centers, is currently building a new campus in Pasco County, Florida. The new campus will bring world-class cancer care and research to the residents of Pasco County and the surrounding areas.

Moffitt Cancer Center is known for its comprehensive approach to cancer treatment, combining state-of-the-art technology with a patient-centered focus. The new campus will feature state-of-the-art technology, including advanced imaging, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The new campus will also provide access to the latest cancer treatments and research findings, allowing patients to receive the best possible care close to home.

In addition to providing advanced cancer care, the new Moffitt campus in Pasco County will also play an important role in advancing cancer research. Moffitt is dedicated to discovering new and better treatments for cancer, and the new campus will provide a platform for researchers to continue their important work.

The new Moffitt Cancer Center campus in Pasco County is expected to have a major economic impact on the area, creating new jobs and boosting local businesses. The center will attract top cancer specialists, researchers, and support staff, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the area.

The arrival of Moffitt Cancer Center in Pasco County is a major development for the area and the fight against cancer. With its focus on providing the best possible care for patients and advancing cancer research, Moffitt Cancer Center will play an important role in the health and well-being of the residents of Pasco County and the surrounding areas.

In conclusion, healthcare in Pasco County is of high quality, with numerous options available to meet the needs of residents. Whether you need routine care or specialized medical attention, the county has a healthcare solution for you.

Pasco County has a thriving community of organizations and groups dedicated to serving its residents. These organizations offer, amongst other things, religious, recreational, cultural, and social programs. Some popular community organizations include local churches, service clubs, fraternal organizations, and volunteer groups. These organizations provide opportunities for residents to get involved in their communities, make new friends, and support local causes. Whether you're looking to volunteer, join a club, or simply connect with others, there is likely a community organization in Pasco County that is right for you.

https://www.pascocountyfl.net/

https://pascoedc.com/

https://pascopa.com/

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https://www.pasco.k12.fl.us/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pasco_County,_Florida

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