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Lutz (Pronounced like fruits) is often thought of as a "bedroom community" because many residents commute to Tampa during working hours and return in the evening. However, Lutz is also a place with its own identity. Lutz is located about 15 miles north of Tampa, Florida. It's a little hard to pinpoint the exact boundaries, but it's safe to say that the heart of Lutz is just north of the intersection of Sunset Lane and US 41. Here is where the Old Lutz School House sits ( a historic site). The library, community center and firehouse are grouped together near the war memorials. The recently erected train depot ( a replica of the original) is a reminder of the community's origins and the spirit remaining with the residents today. With good schools, affordable housing and a strong sense of community, Lutz is considered a good place to live and raise a family.
Most of Lutz is located in Hillsborough County, but the most northern part is across the county line in Pasco County where Lutz meets Land O'Lakes and Wesley Chapel. The rural feel of LUtz is retined largely because of the strong commitment of the residents to keep a small-town country atmosphere in the area. The area is dotted with fresh water lakes and ponds, some interconnected through canals. Agricultural land, used primarily for grazing cattle and horses and even a few smaller citrus groves, can be found mixed in with subdivisions, parks, school, churches and businesses. Although Lutz is quickly becoming best known for its newer upscale golf course communities and developments offering many amenities such as parks, community centers, pools and playgrounds.
Lutz is one of the few remaining communities where it's possible to find a non-subdivision home on one to two acres of land. A strong sense of community is rooted in the connections of residents to the schools and churches and organization in the area. The Fourth of July celebration features an old-fashioned parade through the town, a foot race, games and contests, bake-offs, chicken barbecue dinner, and the election of the "gov'ner". The winter holidays are celebrated through the erection of oversized holiday greeting cards and musical presentations of the school-area children.
Significant road improvements have made commuting easier and more enjoyable for Lutz residents. The widening of US 41, and it's proximity to Interstate 275, has made commuting to Tampa much easier. The Veterans Expressway, which terminates at Dale Mabry Highway, makes the drive to Saint Petersburg, Clearwater or the Tampa Airport a snap. Students and staff of the University of South Florida (USF) find Lutz a convenient place to live since the university is immediately southwest of Lutz.
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