OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Marion County is growing – fast. And if you’ve been stuck in traffic on SR 200, noticed more homes going up, or struggled to find a parking spot at your Publix, you’ve already felt it.
On April 1, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners held the fifth in a series of 10 workshops focused on updating the county’s comprehensive plan – a long-term blueprint for how the community will grow. The next workshop is scheduled for April 21, 2025.
What’s a Comprehensive Plan?
It’s a strategy that shapes where homes, schools, roads, and businesses go – all of which directly affect your family’s daily life.
What’s a Planned Service Area?
A Planned Service Area (PSA) is where infrastructure – like roads, water, and parks – already exists or can easily be added. These are targeted zones for future development.
“Density isn’t a bad word, it’s not the enemy, it’s a tool,” said Ken Weyrauch, Marion County’s Deputy Director of Growth Services. “If it’s used correctly, it has a lot of benefits for developers, the community, and the entire region.”
Why It Matters to You
More traffic. Expect more people on the roads near schools, shopping plazas, and sports fields.
More housing. New neighborhoods and mixed-use developments may spring up near your community.
Crowded schools. Growth can strain classrooms and school resources.
Changes to parks. Green spaces may be preserved – or developed – depending on what the plan is.
Population Growth in Perspective
Marion County has grown significantly:
1980: 122,488
2020: 375,908
Bureau of Economic and Business Research at the University of Florida estimates:
2024 (estimate): 419,510
2050 (average projection): 587,900
“The Ocala metro was number one of the top 10 in percentage of growth at 4%,” Weyrauch said. “We’re seeing some growth that we haven’t seen before.”
Who’s Moving In – and Why?
“From 2020-2022, we saw 56,000 people move in and 33,000 move out, for a net gain of 23,000,” said Weyrauch. “That was mostly due to COVID. Now, we’re seeing people from coastal areas moving inland due to high insurance and housing costs.”
The Upside of Smart Growth
If managed well, higher density can lead to:
✅ Better use of roads and utilities
✅ Higher wages
✅ More walkable communities
✅ Preserved open space
✅ Lower pollution and energy use
✅ Cheaper public services
Get Involved
Your voice matters. Go to the April 21 workshop or follow updates online.