Marion County officials are grappling with significant traffic concerns as they review a proposed development project that could add over 1,200 daily trips to local roadways. During a recent Board of County Commissioners Planning and Zoning meeting, discussions highlighted the potential impact of the project on already congested intersections, particularly at the intersection of 30 Second Street and 04:41, which is currently failing during peak hours.

The proposed development, which includes approximately 50 residential units, is expected to generate around 85 trips during the PM peak hour alone. This increase, combined with existing traffic from nearby developments, raises alarms about the ability of local infrastructure to handle the additional load. Commissioners expressed concerns about the adequacy of traffic management solutions, especially given that the city has not recommended any additional fixes for the failing intersections.

To address these issues, the project includes plans for a new 370-foot southbound left turn lane at the intersection, which officials hope will alleviate some of the expected congestion. However, skepticism remains about whether this addition will be sufficient, especially considering the existing traffic conditions that already see significant backups.

In addition to traffic concerns, the meeting also touched on the condition of local roadways. A pavement condition index revealed that segments of roads near the proposed development are in poor condition, with some rated as failing. While improvements to these roads are not currently in the county's Transportation Improvement Program, officials indicated that they could prioritize these upgrades if necessary.

The project is still in the conceptual phase and will require further review before final approval. Key considerations include stormwater management and open space requirements, which must be addressed in future submissions. The county staff has recommended that the project aligns with the comprehensive plan and is compatible with surrounding land uses, but the ongoing traffic and infrastructure challenges remain a critical focus for the board.

As Marion County continues to grow, the implications of this development will be closely monitored, with officials emphasizing the need for effective traffic management solutions to ensure public safety and accessibility.