City Planning Director Updates Zephyrhills Developments.
By Susan Slater
September’s meeting opened with a prayer and pledge allegiance to the flag. President, Debby Murray announced speakers for the rest of the year. Murray went on to introduce the Latin Republican Club, Republican Executive Club,dignitaries attending the meeting and the speaker, Todd Vande Berg,Zephyrhills Planning Director for the City of Zephyrhills since 1996.
“Thereis much happening in the area,” said Vande Berg. He highlighted ongoing road projects, water issues, and developments.One of the biggest developments is the Baducco facility, located at 6th Avenue and Chancey Road within the industrial corridor surrounding the airport. This area has been long protected from residential development to encourage industrial growth and good jobs. The facility is about 500,000 square feet and potential to double the size. The project is expected to bring 500–600 jobs, spanning a four-year development timeline.
MiTek, producesmetal products and technology for the housing and construction industry. Their facility will span 150,000 square feet with plans for expansion and will create approximately 150 well-paying jobs. The company will be investing $150 million. The rail access will reduce the truck traffic and congestion.
Tibbets Lumber, a smaller manufacturing operation is under construction, creating 30–40 jobs. Theymanufacture building materials for residential and commercialbusinesses.
The National Guard Armory is underway on the north side of the airport at Sixth and Chancey, further increasing the region’s manufacturing presence.Community rumors suggest that Aldis may open a store at CR 54 and 20th Street.
Water and Traffic/Road Safety remain critical issues. Residential construction has been paused for two years, with the city council recently extending the moratorium due to water concerns. Planning has mapped twelve traffic hotspot locations for improvement.Plans are in motion to attend to hotspots by extending trails along Wire Road--providing sidewalks for students walking to school,road turn-offs in residential areas and a roundabout at Wire and Pretty Pond.
County planners proposed residential development near Old Lakeland Highway and CR 54. The city sees this as an industrial corridor andhave formally opposed these changes, advocating to preserve manufacturing and job creation.
The parks master plan is being updated. Zephyr Parkis slated for a major renovation, with ongoing discussions about the future of Alice Hall.Veteran’s Parkplans are underway.
Housing affordability is a critical challenge. The city is exploring innovative housing solutions. Pilot projects include small container homes near Zephyr Park, rented for about $1,000/month, a more alternative solution to traditional homes at $300,000+. Collaboration with local developers and property owners is ongoing to ensure realistic, affordable housing.
CR 54 could expand to four lanes. Sixth Avenue is affected by utility infrastructure upgrades. The closure is driven by ongoing gas linework and installation of additional utilities, but will be relatively short-lived.
Discussion through QnAaddressed the Silverado Golf Course, still in discussion andThe Cottages at the YMCA, a rental project, where roads and utilities are still being developed.
At the close of the meeting, Kurt Sombutmai, host at 2N2 Restaurant handed out souvenir coffee cups to Todd and dignitaries thanking everyone for allowing him to host the meeting. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month at 6:00 with community leaders as speakers.
