When I first arrived in the Daytona /Port Orange Area in 1980, Port Orange had just completed a year of being named, the Number One fastest growing city in the United States. Quite a fete for an unheralded town that only 3700 people called home in the early '70's. Today over 56,000 folks claim a Port Orange address thanks to a well planned and well managed city development plan.
I remember when the high rise Port Orange Bridge, was a drawbridge, and how difficult it was to get to the 
beach on the weekend.The bridge-tender was obligated to raise the bridge for boats with no concern to the mile long traffic backup. It was controlled by the Army Corp of Engineers and boat traffic took precedent over cars. With all the weekend boaters, that bridge was bouncing up and down like a jack in the box, while the people in the cars sat in 90 degree sweltering heat , screaming words their mothers used to wash their mouth with soap for saying.
The new bridge construction took over 2 years but the inconvenience was worth it as we can now zip to the beach and enjoy a beautiful view from atop the bridge.
The city built a lovely "City Center" which houses the police and fire station, government buildings and outdoor amphitheater for concerts.
There's a beautiful lake, with a measured 1/2 mile walkway that is enjoyed by myriads of residents, along with the 37 turtles that call the lake home. You'll often see someone feeding the turtles and the birds around the lake.
Port Orange Recreation Center is also located there along with several baseball and soccer fields.
There are organized sport programs for boys and girls of all ages. The 'Rec Department' does an outstanding job with their activities . There is also a YMCA located there and Palmer Chiropractic College is there.
The schools are highly sought after by people moving into the area because of their reputation.
Housing prices range from affordable to ultra luxurious. All in all, a terrific place to call home.
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