Council approves first reading for zoning change to allow luxury apartments at 598 Animal Safari Road

The Board of Aldermen gave first reading approval to rezone a parcel at 598 Animal Safari Road from agriculture to High Density Residential to allow a proposed luxury-apartment development.

Planning staff introduced the request and noted the Planning Commission had voted unanimously to recommend the rezoning. Developer engineer Ricky Hawes, representing the applicant, told the board the proposed western site would include about 224 apartment units (one- and two-bedroom), over roughly 35 acres — a density of about seven units per acre. Hawes said the developer also controls an adjoining eastern parcel already planned for 160 units over 15 acres; combined projects represent an estimated $60 million investment in two phases.

Hawes said units would be positioned around the lake that currently exists on the site, which would also be used for stormwater detention, and that both clubhouses and amenities (pool, pickleball courts, trails and sports courts) are planned. He said rents were projected on the higher end for the market (he estimated roughly $1,500 per month) and that the western phase timeline is targeted to begin construction in 2026 after platting and approvals.

Board members asked about access and traffic; Hawes said the developments will use Preserve Drive for ingress and egress and that grade and floodplain conditions prevent direct access from Animal Safari Road. Board members expressed support for additional housing options while noting the project targets higher-end renters and retirees.

Ending: The board approved the first reading; the developer will proceed with preliminary and final plats and return with those materials and engineering details for subsequent approvals.