Jacksonville Council approves traffic study for new Costco site in Town Center

During the recent Land Use & Zoning Committee meeting in Jacksonville, significant discussions centered around a proposed amendment requiring a traffic circulation study for a new Costco location. This study aims to assess the internal traffic impacts during the civil site plan review process, ensuring that the development aligns with the city's land development procedures.

Councilman Lena expressed concerns about the potential traffic congestion that could arise from the single main entrance to the site, particularly given its proximity to the busy Town Center, a major revenue-generating area for Jacksonville. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a safe and pleasant experience for visitors, especially since the area is already known for heavy traffic. The councilman noted that the current parking capacity would be reduced by 16%, raising questions about whether the remaining spaces would be sufficient to accommodate the expected influx of customers.

Further discussions revealed that the projected traffic increase could lead to significant congestion, especially during peak hours. Councilman Ayers pointed out that while the traffic study indicated an average of 60 trips per hour throughout the day, this figure did not account for the existing traffic conditions, which are already problematic. He emphasized the need for clarity on how many trips Costco currently generates and the potential impact of adding more traffic to an already congested area.

The committee ultimately approved the amendment, which includes the condition for the traffic study, but concerns remain regarding the adequacy of the existing infrastructure to handle the anticipated increase in traffic. As the project moves forward, the results of the traffic study will be crucial in determining whether additional measures are needed to mitigate congestion and ensure the safety of all road users in the vicinity. The committee's discussions reflect broader concerns about urban planning and the balance between development and community impact in Jacksonville.