Developer Phil Paston outlines Spring Hill bridge project funding and water supply challenges

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen of Spring Hill, Tennessee, convened on May 5, 2025, to discuss significant developments affecting local infrastructure and traffic management. A key topic was the ongoing negotiations regarding a development agreement that includes a request from the applicant to forgo individual traffic studies for each site in favor of a consolidated traffic memo.

The developer has spent the past five months preparing a traffic study that aligns with the city's requirements, allowing for a better understanding of the project's potential traffic impact based on current data. Alderman Jimenez expressed interest in further exploring this matter and moved to suspend the rules to allow the applicant to address the board.

Phil Paston, the developer, provided insights into the challenges faced during the approval process, particularly regarding a state grant for a bridge project over Interstate 65. Paston explained that changes in federal administration led to new criteria for grant eligibility, which Spring Hill did not meet. Consequently, the developer has opted to privately fund the bridge construction, with plans to begin in early 2026 and complete it by mid-2027.

Additionally, Paston highlighted issues related to water supply for the development. Initially expecting the City of Spring Hill to provide water, the developer learned that the city could not meet the demand. As a result, they have turned to the Maury County Water District for water supply, which has agreed to sell water for the project.

The discussions at the meeting underscore the complexities of urban development in Spring Hill, particularly in navigating regulatory challenges and infrastructure needs. The board's willingness to consider the developer's requests may pave the way for future growth in the area.