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As recently reported by the Tallahassee Democrat, a petition was filed to annex 1,742 acres near Lake Jackson and Meridian Road into the City of Tallahassee. If approved, this annexation would represent the first major hurdle cleared toward what could become one of the largest developments in our region. The Scale of the Proposed Development Without a master plan, it’s impossible to know the ultimate scale of what is being proposed. However, for comparison, 1,742 acres is more than half the size of Southwood and nearly double the size of the Heel section of Welaunee. Last year, a nearly identical map was included in a proposed Comprehensive Plan amendment that would have significantly increased the development potential of this property. Under that proposal, portions of the land could have been developed at densities of up to 20 homes per acre or 20,000 square feet of nonresidential development per acre. Depending on the final mix of uses, that level of intensity could result in several thousand structures. Why the Location is ConcerningMeridian Road Lacks Capacity County traffic data show that the northbound segment of Meridian Road between Ox Bottom Road and Bannerman Road operated at approximately 96% of capacity during weekday peak periods from 4–6 p.m., leaving only about 40 trips before the Meridian reaches its capacity. Additionally, more than 900 residential units have already been approved or are currently under construction within a couple of miles of the Meridian, Bannerman, and Ox Bottom corridors. Even before considering a development of this scale, Meridian Road will already be in dire straits. This Development Will Cost Tax Payers Millions Adding infrastructure is expensive and can take decades to complete. Just consider the 21-year Bannerman Road widening project for comparison. It became a Blueprint project in 2014, is projected to be completed in 2035 and is currently estimated to cost taxpayers $159.7 million. Meridian Road presents additional challenges as a constrained canopy road that’s surrounded by wetlands. These factors could make adding capacity substantially more complex and costly. Beyond transportation, taxpayers would also be responsible for maintaining the public infrastructure and services associated with the development. The Property Lies Within One of the Region’s Most Sensitive Environmental Areas The acreage is located within the Lake Jackson Aquatic Preserve. During last year’s Comprehensive Plan review process, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection expressed concerns that increased development intensity in this area could negatively affect not only Lake Jackson, but also Wakulla Springs and the Floridan Aquifer. The property also serves as part of a larger landscape that supports wildlife movement, water recharge, and habitat connectivity in one of North Florida’s most ecologically significant regions. What Happens Next?Last year, the landowner sought approval for increased development rights through the Comprehensive Plan process. Following significant public opposition, the proposal was ultimately rejected by the County Commission. The landowner is now pursuing annexation into the City of Tallahassee, which would place future land-use and development decisions under a different elected body. The annexation petition is scheduled to be discussed by the City Commission on June 10. While the decision to approve his petition will not approve the development, it paves the way for it and moves the decision-making to an arena where the County residents surrounding it have less of a say since they are unable to vote in City Commission elections. Sources:
submitted by /u/Delicious-Cheetah752 |
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