Developed on the bucolic landscape of the former 700-acre Boschert Family Farm, New Town St. Charles stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of urban planning and community living as it reaches the 20 year mark. The Boschert family, with a rich history in the area, lends a sense of heritage and tradition to the development. New Town made sure to include numerous historical references to this original community throughout the neighborhood, with many of the street names paying homage to the Boschert legacy. With the need for additional homes in the area, New Town has created a space for over 2,000 homes, within a relatively small footprint alongside the rich and vast agricultural community that makes up the bulk of Orchard Farm—an area of perennial importance to both local and exported commodities. In-line with being a sustainable development with a limited footprint, the soil from the farmland was used to elevate the landscape. GlenMark Farms was also established on the north end of the community and helped to cultivate a lot of the trees that were transplanted to line the streets of the original development.
The genesis of New Town dates back to the visionary ideals of Greg Whittaker, whose company, Whittaker Homes, undertook the ambitious task of transforming farmland into a thriving neighborhood. Inspired by similar endeavors in Florida and driven by a desire to create a close-knit community, Whittaker spearheaded the project in the late 1990s, laying the groundwork for what would become a modern-day utopia.
One of the defining features of New Town is its distinctive architectural style, reminiscent of the historic charm of New Orleans. Longtime architect Tim Busse played a pivotal role in shaping the unique character of the community, infusing it with a sense of timeless elegance and authenticity. From quaint cottages to stately townhouses, each structure reflects a reverence for tradition while embracing contemporary design principles. The mix of both large homes, townhouses, duplexes and apartments allows for both families and young professionals to be a part of the community—a unique attribute, not only in St. Charles County, but within the entire St. Louis Metropolitan area.
Central to the allure of New Town is its vibrant Town Square, a bustling hub of activity where residents gather to socialize, shop and dine. Here, local businesses and restaurants line the streets, offering an eclectic array of culinary delights and artisanal goods. A full-scale market, stocked with fresh produce and everyday essentials, caters to the needs of the community, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency and sustainability. Throughout the years, there have been many long-standing restaurants and businesses. Within the past three years, these businesses have even created a regional draw to the business district—evident through perennial events such as the Midwest Maifest, a national cornhole tournament, the best Halloween atmosphere in the area and award-winning cuisine such as Bobaque’s famous chicken wings. Christmas time is a sight to behold, as well—with nearly every home decked out to create one of the best holiday lights tours in the region.
Beyond its commercial offerings, New Town boasts an array of recreational amenities designed to promote an active lifestyle and foster a sense of community. Sprawling green spaces and playgrounds provide idyllic settings for leisurely strolls and impromptu gatherings, while two expansive pools offer respite from the summer heat. The crown jewel of the community, however, is the interior beach located along one of its largest lakes—a bit of an oasis where residents can unwind and enjoy summer within the community, complete with lake swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding.
Walkability lies at the heart of New Town's design ethos, with interconnected streets and pathways encouraging residents to explore their surroundings on foot or by bicycle. This pedestrian-friendly approach not only promotes physical activity but also fosters a greater sense of connection among neighbors, who often cross paths while meandering through the neighborhood.
In recent years, New Town has continued to evolve and expand, welcoming new additions that enrich the fabric of the community. The establishment of the New Town Dance Academy has added a cultural dimension to the neighborhood, providing aspiring dancers with a platform to hone their craft and showcase their talents. Likewise, the introduction of The Commons, a shared office space, has catalyzed collaboration among local business professionals, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the community. A thriving pickleball and beach volleyball scene also fosters a healthy life-style—allowing residents to take part in shared recreational activities.
With the tranquil waterways of New Town as a constant and refreshing backdrop, residents gather for an array of community events and celebrations that punctuate the calendar year. From festivals and concerts to farmers' markets and holiday parades, there is always something happening in this vibrant enclave. These shared experiences not only strengthen bonds among neighbors but also reinforce the sense of belonging that defines life in New Town.
In essence, New Town St. Charles is more than just a residential development—it is a living, breathing embodiment of the ideals of community and connectivity. Rooted in a rich history of innovation and collaboration, it serves as a model for sustainable urban living, where residents can thrive amidst the beauty of their surroundings and the warmth of their neighbors' company. As the legacy of its founders continues to unfold, New Town stands as a testament to the enduring power of community in shaping the area where we live, work and play. As New Town approaches its 20th year anniversary, the vision of growth, sustainability and community continues to come to fruition.