Commissioners approve large South Shore rezonings to implement recent comprehensive-plan changes

Hillsborough County commissioners approved two substantial rezoning requests on Sept. 9 that implement earlier comprehensive-plan amendments converting portions of Wymama/South Shore from WVR2 to Residential 4 (Res-4). The actions clear the way for large-scale residential communities with conditions requiring transportation and infrastructure improvements. The first rezoning (PD205371) covers approximately 635.7 acres west of County Road 579 and increases allowable dwelling units from prior lower-density limits to a maximum of 2,300 units with a school option (1,000-student elementary) or 2,492 units without a school. The second rezoning (PD25-469) covers roughly 506.7 acres along County Road 579 and allows up to 1,600 dwelling units and an optional K-8 school with 1,620 students. Planning commission staff and the zoning hearing master recommended approval for both applications; the county engineer reviewed and found related design exceptions approvable. Conditions require roadway improvements, design exceptions to be addressed, and other standard PD conditions. Commissioners voted to approve both rezonings during the meeting with recorded unanimous votes in each case. County staff's analysis notes that the recent map-and-text comprehensive-plan amendments to expand the urban service area and change future land use to Res-4 are now in effect and that the rezonings are consistent with the county's future land use and community plan policies. Transportation staff signaled no objections provided required improvements and design exceptions are met. The rezonings will require further implementing permits, roadway construction and, if a school is proposed, coordination with the School District.