During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing development of the Symington Woods neighborhood, highlighting plans for a final phase that will introduce 40 new townhomes. This addition aims to complete the neighborhood, which has been under development for the past 25 years, with a focus on maintaining a balance between residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.
The area near the interchange has been designated for mixed-use development, allowing for both residential and commercial properties. However, the current zoning regulations dictate that 70% of the land must remain as recreational or natural open space, limiting built areas to 30%. This zoning strategy is intended to reduce traffic congestion, as residential developments typically generate less traffic than commercial ones.
The meeting also addressed the infrastructure improvements associated with the development. A single road, Symington Drive, is planned to connect to Clark Road, with future enhancements including a fully signalized intersection. This decision was influenced by traffic studies indicating that the residential nature of the area would not necessitate a more complex road system.
Additionally, an emergency access road, previously an old cart path, will be paved and gated for fire department use, ensuring safety and accessibility during construction and beyond. The design of the new roads will adhere to existing topographical features to minimize environmental disruption, with careful consideration given to the grades of the roads to accommodate the attached townhome layout.
Overall, the meeting underscored the commitment to thoughtful urban planning that prioritizes community needs while balancing development with environmental preservation.