Woodman development plan for infill subdivision in Hayden progresses with utility approvals

In the heart of Hayden City, a significant development project is taking shape, promising to enhance local infrastructure while addressing community needs. During the recent Hayden Planning and Zoning Committee meeting, discussions centered around a proposed subdivision that aims to connect existing dead-end roads and improve utility services in the area.

The Woodman family, who initiated the project back in 2022, have been patiently awaiting the necessary infrastructure improvements to proceed. Their plan includes a standard 36-foot wide road designed to accommodate parking on both sides, as well as sidewalks and swales for effective stormwater management. This thoughtful design aims to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists while also easing traffic flow in the Hayden Canyon neighborhood.

One of the key points raised during the meeting was the decision to maintain a buffer zone and not create additional connections to nearby Emerald Estates and Lancaster. This choice, while potentially increasing traffic in the Hayden Canyon area, is intended to preserve the character of the existing neighborhoods and limit cut-through traffic.

Water services for the new development will be provided by the Avondale Irrigation District, which has already issued a will-serve letter, ensuring that water circulation will improve in the vicinity. The City of Hayden will manage the sanitary sewer system, with the developer covering the costs of all improvements.

The proposed subdivision will feature a density of 2.3 lots per acre, slightly lower than the adjacent Hayden Canyon First Edition. Importantly, the developers plan to preserve 3.2 acres of existing vegetation, contributing to the area's natural beauty. The project aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan, which encourages the development of land within city limits before considering annexation of surrounding areas.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed their support for the project, recognizing its potential to enhance the community while addressing the ongoing growth of Hayden. However, the timeline for construction remains cautious, with no vertical building expected until 2026, allowing ample time for the necessary infrastructure to be fully established.

This development marks a pivotal moment for Hayden, as it balances growth with the preservation of community values, setting the stage for a more connected and sustainable future.