The Tallahassee City Commission voted unanimously to approve a 494-acre expansion on a planned unit development (PUD) that would see new homes built on a privately-owned property in southeast Tallahassee. The expansion brings the total PUD to 744 acres.
The land is commonly known as the English Property, named after the family that owns it. It is mostly forest bordered by South Blair Stone Road and East Orange Avenue on its north side, and Tram Road on its south side.
Some Tallahassee residents worry development could have a negative impact on the environment. Stephany Cecil is concerned about the environmental impact that developing on the property might have on Florida’s aquifer.
“The city has incompletely identified all of the natural features called karst features that could be possible sinkholes,” said Stephany Cecil, “and any stormwater or runoff could damage Wakulla Springs.”
One condition of the expansion is to protect a greenway on the property. Brad Parker, a development attorney representing the English family, said at Wednesday’s commission meeting the family was excited about the preservation of a greenway.
“It will be a wonderful amenity,” said Parker, “to not just the English family but to everyone in that area, whenever it’s built.”
Other green areas on the property will be split by a road extension requested by the City of Tallahassee to coincide with development.
Parker went on to say he has had discussions with members of the community who are concerned about the impact development could have, but that there are no plans for the property yet. Getting the PUD expanded was the necessary next step to move forward.
With local approval, the project can now move forward. Discussions will continue between the community and those involved with the project on how to go about preserving some of the property’s forest.
