OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Board of County Commissioners approved a land use amendment June 17 for a new development in southeast Marion County, despite concerns about traffic impact, safety, and a lack of buffers.

The Sandy Clay, LLC project, which passed 4–1 with Chair Kathy Bryant dissenting, includes 15.52 acres located on SE 92nd Loop within both the urban growth boundary and primary springs protection area. The land was previously owned by Marion County and used as a drainage retention area. The surrounding area is largely agricultural.

Higher Density, More Traffic

The amendment shifts the land use from general agriculture to medium residential, connecting it with an adjacent 119.75-acre planned unit development (PUD) already approved for 452 units. The applicant now plans up to 442 detached single-family homes.

Residents may be most concerned about increased traffic. According to county documents, single-family units generate more traffic than townhomes, resulting in an estimated 3,960 daily vehicle trips from this project alone. Three driveways will connect the development to surrounding roads, including a full-access entrance on SE 110th Street Road and limited access points on SE 92nd Loop.

With several other developments under review nearby including Emerald Village (1,200 units), Carissa Oaks North (640 units), SHS Active Adult Community, and Camilla Estates (269 units), questions remain whether local infrastructure can support the added volume.

Safety, Buffers, and Public Health

The developer agreed to provide a staggered front, tree-per-lot landscaping, and central utilities via the City of Belleview. However, concerns about buffers between homes and high-traffic roads remain.

Commission Chair Kathy Bryant said that she can’t support the project because of the lack of an adequate buffer, a fence or wall, and for safety reasons.

Nearby residents also raised concerns about air quality, pointing to a nearby project that appears to be a sand mining operation. Fine dust is reportedly blowing into neighboring properties, causing respiratory issues.

Construction Timeline

The applicant said the project is nearing final grading and that home construction may begin in about six months.

Amenities in the development will include a pool, clubhouse, dog park, playground, swing set, and covered shelter.

Of the 53 adjacent property owners notified, only two filed objections. Staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval.

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