Commission backs rezoning of 106.96-acre site for Midway Loop Trail and future recreational amenities

The Seminole County Planning and Zoning Commission recommended that the Board of County Commissioners adopt an ordinance rezoning approximately 106.96 acres from A1 Agriculture to PLI (Public Lands and Institutions) to permit the Midway Loop Trail and future recreational amenities.

Caitlin Apgar, planner with Seminole County Planning and Development Services, told the commission the property on the west side of Bridal Avenue north of State Road 46 currently has a low-density residential future land use and is zoned A1 agriculture; the applicant seeks PLI zoning to allow a public trail and related recreational facilities. Apgar said the project would develop a public trail approximately 4,947 feet in length, add exercise equipment and a pavilion, and leave the existing stormwater retention pond in place. She noted parks are permitted in PLI and that PLI is a compatible zoning classification under the comprehensive plan for the property’s land-use designation. Apgar also said the applicant previously conducted outreach and that the requirement for an additional community meeting was waived pursuant to Seminole County Land Development Code section 30.3.5.1.

Dan Heacock, project manager for Seminole County Parks and Recreation, described the project as a straightforward community investment and said county staff view it as a valuable asset for a historic neighborhood that has seen limited investment. Emery Green Jr., executive director of the Midway Coalition, spoke in support and described the property’s history as a former borrow pit and a longstanding community concern; Green urged continued inclusion of local stakeholders and the Midway Canaan Community Water Association in future utility discussions.

After public support statements and no recorded opposition, a motion to recommend adoption of the rezone ordinance passed by voice vote. The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners; staff indicated the BOCC hearing is scheduled for Aug. 12, 2025 (time to be confirmed).

The commission’s recommendation does not itself rezone the property; it sends a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners, which has final ordinance-adoption authority. Staff and the applicant said future phases may require utility connections and additional review if new amenities are constructed.