About the series

The construction of University Town Center, the mega mall being built near Lakewood Ranch, is a game-changer for the east county area.

Beginning Sunday, the Bradenton Herald looks at the future growth of the area through three key components -- housing, sports and commercial development.

Sunday: Housing is booming in east county. We look at what more the University Town Center will generate.

Monday: A look at east county's rapidly developing role as a sports destination, nationally and internationally.

Tuesday: Commercial development, spurred by the huge University Town Center mall under construction, is booming in east Manatee.