The plan calls for dozens of duplexes and townhomes packed into a space of less than 10 acres.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A proposed housing development in Jacksonville’s Oceanway neighborhood is facing growing opposition.
Some residents say the plan to build 62 homes on less than ten acres will overwhelm the community and clog already congested roads.
A rezoning plan proposes transforming rural residential land around Starratt and Yellow Bluff roads into a planned unit development with single-family homes and duplexes. However, many local residents argue that the high-density project is too massive for the area.
“They want to squeeze in 31 duplexes, totaling 62 homes, on just over nine acres,” said Jason Rife, a resident since 2007. “While we understand that development is inevitable, this plan exceeds the desires of our community.”
Nearby residents also worry about safety at the intersection of Starratt and Yellow Bluff, which is already packed with traffic.
“I sat here between 4 and 6 p.m. the other day and counted 2,480 cars going through,” neighbor Jim Droste said. “There were a lot of close calls.”
Rife expressed worries about the absence of crosswalks and the potential hazards for children crossing busy streets. In addition to traffic issues, locals voiced concerns about overburdened wells and septic systems, flood risks, and a development that would disrupt the rural essence of the neighborhood.
“We lived in Cape Coral for 12 years, but it became overcrowded,” Droste mentioned. “We discovered this lovely sanctuary with nearby woods and waterways, which drew us here.”
John and Shirley Spurgeon, who built their home themselves, echoing that message.
“This is our home, this is our forever place,” they said.
They’re leading an effort that has now gathered over 1,000 signatures on a petition opposing the project.
Signs around the community convey a simple message to city leaders: “This isn’t the city. This is rural country.”
Jacksonville City Council member Mike Gay supports the community’s activism. He confirmed that there are presently no plans to broaden Starratt or Yellow Bluff roads, although a $15 million traffic study has been commissioned for the region.
If the proposed city budget passes, Gay said over $6 million could be allocated to start much-needed intersection improvements.
Neighbors continue to urge city officials and developers to reconsider the project.
“Drive through and see what we’re trying to safeguard,” Droste urged. “The city may approve development from a distance, but it’s crucial to be accountable when such decisions impact people’s homes and safety.”
The next Jacksonville City Council meeting is scheduled for Sept. 9, with a final vote on the development expected Oct. 14.
