Woodman Subdivision seeks approval for 23-lot development in Kootenai County

The Hayden Planning and Zoning Committee recently discussed the proposed Woodman Subdivision, a project that aims to transform nearly 10 acres of undeveloped forest land into 23 residential lots. This development, located east of the Hayden Canyon First Edition subdivisions, is part of a broader effort to accommodate growth in the area while adhering to existing zoning regulations.

The Woodman Subdivision, presented by engineers Derek Huff and Eric Olsen, is designed to include 22 building lots, with sizes ranging from approximately 8,250 to over 9,000 square feet. Additionally, there will be a larger remainder lot of 3.8 acres, which the owners, Ian and Rebecca Woodman, plan to keep undeveloped for the foreseeable future. The project is consistent with the single-family residential zoning that governs the surrounding area, which includes other residential developments.

A key aspect of the discussion centered on the transportation infrastructure required for the subdivision. Since the property was annexed in 2009, the city has updated its 2040 Transportation Master Plan, which now allows for higher density development than previously permitted. The committee noted that a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) would be necessary for any development exceeding two dwelling units per acre, a stipulation from the original annexation agreement.

The proposed subdivision is seen as an infill project, bridging the gap between smaller lots in the nearby Canyon area and larger lots in the Marks Ranch subdivision. The flat terrain of the site is expected to facilitate development, although concerns about wildlife habitat loss were raised during the meeting.

As the city continues to grow, the Woodman Subdivision represents a significant step in addressing housing needs while balancing environmental considerations. The committee's discussions reflect ongoing efforts to ensure that new developments align with community goals and infrastructure capabilities. Further steps will be taken to evaluate the project's impact on local resources and the surrounding environment as the planning process moves forward.