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.
The rezoning proposal calls for converting rural residential land near Starratt and Yellow Bluff roads into a planned unit development featuring single-family homes and duplexes. Many neighbors say the high-density project is too large for the area.
“31 duplexes, but 62 homes on just over nine acres, they’re trying to cram as much as they can in,” Jason Riff, who has lived in the area since 2007, said. “We’re not against development, it’s inevitable, but this goes beyond what the community wants.”
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.”
He raised concerns about the lack of crosswalks and the danger posed to children who would have to cross busy roads. Aside from traffic, residents also shared fears over strained wells and septic systems, flooding risks and a development that clashes with the rural character of the neighborhood.
“We lived in Cape Coral for 12 years, but it got too crowded,” Droste said. “We found this beautiful sanctuary here with woods and waterways nearby. It’s why we moved.”
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 says he supports residents speaking out. He confirmed there are no current plans to widen Starratt or Yellow Bluff roads but noted that a $15 million traffic study was commissioned for the area.
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.
“Come drive through and see what we’re trying to protect,” Droste said. “The city might find it easy to approve development from afar, but there needs to be responsibility when 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.