Palm Coast City Council heard a presentation regarding the master plan for Old Kings multi-family master site plan. This site plan included 9 three story apartment complexes which will have 24 units. The plan will also include a clubhouse, pool, 72 garages, walking trails, two ponds and a trail along Old Kings Road. The site plan would have a buffer and a conservation area behind the development. This plan would line Old Kings Road, with two access points to the apartment complexes. Staff presented this master site plan to be compatible with the area, as well as compatible with the direction of the City of Palm Coast. The planning board heard this item on November 15th, and it was passed with a 5-2 vote.
The applicant, SCor USA, was in attendance, and presented on the site plan for the potential project. The presenter stated their project would not impact any wetlands. There will be sidewalks connecting the project, and the presenter stated that with both sites to the north and south being undeveloped they put in easements into this project for access if needed when those sites are developed. The applicant stated that they have built into their plans the appropriate buffer to cover the frontage of the development on Old Kings Road. The development will also have a stormwater system built in, and the applicant stated on record that no water would flow from this development to any other properties or developments.
Pontieri questioned why deceleration lanes or turn lanes are not required; she also questioned if that bus stop was the safest location. Staff informed Pontieri that they have evaluated the development and they felt it was not necessary, but continued on to state this recommendation does not stop council from requiring turn lanes and deceleration lanes. At this point public comment was opened up and residents stood up to discuss their concerns, views and thoughts on the matter. Residents spoke to the fact this project was not ideal for Old Kings Road, it was not compatible with the area, and that it would affect existing residents quality of life, health and wellness. During the many residents who stood up to comment, one major topic was the traffic this development will bring. Many residents are very concerned with the way Old Kings Road becomes gridlocked whenever I-95 gets shutdown due to accidents. Residents vocalized their concerns with how they will get emergency services when Old Kings is backed up. Ultimately the council passed the development, and the master site plan will move forward.
