Metro Development Group outlines lagoon plans and community water impact concerns

The Planning and Development Commission Board meeting on April 17, 2025, in Citrus County, Florida, spotlighted a significant discussion regarding the proposed lagoon development, which has raised both excitement and concerns among board members and residents.

The lagoon, envisioned as a community amenity, is designed to serve both residents and the public, offering activities such as kayaking, yoga, and live music. However, the timeline for its construction remains uncertain, with estimates suggesting it could be 2 to 4 years after the initial home sites are built. This delay has prompted questions about its impact on local traffic and water usage.

Metro Development Group's representative, Curti Goani, provided insights from a similar lagoon project in Waimama, indicating that it generated traffic equivalent to about 99 single-family homes. This suggests a manageable increase in traffic, estimated at a small percentage compared to the overall development.

Concerns about water consumption were also addressed. The lagoon is expected to require approximately 9,000 gallons of water daily to maintain its levels, significantly less than the water needed for traditional golf courses, which consume thirty times more. Goani emphasized that the lagoon could reduce the need for individual backyard pools, potentially leading to fewer pools being built in the community.

The board also discussed the necessity of a concurrency letter from the local water utility, which would confirm the capacity to support both the lagoon and the planned homes. This aspect is crucial, as it ensures that the development aligns with existing water resources and infrastructure.

In conclusion, while the lagoon promises to enhance community life and reduce individual pool costs, its development hinges on careful planning and coordination with local utilities to ensure sustainability and adequate service capacity. The board's ongoing discussions will be vital in shaping the future of this ambitious project in Citrus County.