Community life continues to bloom at Arden, South Florida’s only “agrihood” and among the few places in the country to feature a farm as a central component to community life.
The master-planned community in western Palm Beach County recently added John Thompson to serve as community manager. With residents now moved into their new homes and more families visiting each week, he will be responsible for welcoming and supporting all current and prospective homeowners.
Thompson brings to Arden extensive experience in community association management, previously serving as general manager of a property owners’ association in Georgia, executive director of an association in South Carolina and general manager of an outdoor resort in Long Key, Fla. He additionally served as vice chair and chairman of the Community Associations Institute’s National Large-Scale Managers Committee and South Carolina’s Legislative Action Committee. He earned his associate’s degree in agriculture and bachelor’s degree in business entrepreneurship from Ferrum College, and a master’s degree in project management from the Citadel.
“Arden is by far one of the most exciting new communities being developed in Florida, with new thinking and the best of everything. I’m looking forward to putting down roots here and managing the day-to-day operations,” Thompson said. “With my professional experience and personal interest in agriculture, this is a dream job for me.”
Developed to promote healthy living, community engagement and a connection to the great outdoors, Arden will eventually include 2,000 homes that will back up to a community green space, including parks, playfields, greenways, nature trails or lakes. The scenic property features 20 miles of expertly mapped walking and biking trails; a central lake for fishing, kayaking or canoeing; parks; playfields; a two-story recreation center; and a five-acre working farm and event barn.
Arden’s focus on healthy living is enhanced by its farm and event barn. Under the direction of two skilled farm directors, the five-acre parcel will produce tropical fruits, vegetables and herbs to be shared among residents. The heart of recreational activity at Arden will be the gracious two-story clubhouse, complete with a resort-style pool that cascades over two levels.
Arden is located at 19425 Southern Blvd. For more information, visit www.ardenfl.com.
