Kelly Tractor proposes site relocation and utility expansions near Doral

In a recent meeting of the Miami-Dade County Planning Advisory Board, significant discussions centered around a proposed amendment to land use regulations in the Tamiami and Bird Drive Canal basins. The meeting highlighted a request to create a special area within the open land district, which is primarily designated for non-urban uses such as agriculture, quarrying, and limited recreational activities.

The proposal, primarily driven by Kelly Tractor, aims to relocate its headquarters from Doral to a new site within this open land area. This relocation would involve establishing facilities for heavy equipment storage, repair, and support, including a fuel station. Additionally, the plan includes provisions for truck parking, indoor storage, office space, and commercial amenities such as a restaurant and convenience store to serve the facility's needs.

A key aspect of the proposal is the request to extend water and sewer utilities to the site, which typically falls outside the urban development boundary. This extension is crucial for supporting the planned operations at the new headquarters. The board also discussed the need to amend the capital improvement element to facilitate the expansion of Northwest Sixth Street, which Kelly Tractor has committed to funding.

This meeting underscores the ongoing balancing act in Miami-Dade County between urban development and the preservation of open land. The outcome of this proposal could set a precedent for future developments in similar areas, raising questions about the management of resources and land use in the region. As the board continues to deliberate on these matters, the implications for local infrastructure and community planning remain significant.