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Neighbors oppose proposed Crawford Road PUD; commission tables rezoning amid traffic safety concerns
Summary
A proposed rezoning and future‑land‑use amendment for 73 acres on Crawford Road to a planned unit development (223 single‑family lots) drew several neighbors citing safety and character concerns. The commission voted to table the rezoning to the next meeting to allow further study and coordination with ALDOT.
The Opelika Planning Commission on Aug. 26 heard substantial public opposition to a proposed amendment to the future land‑use map and a rezoning to a planned unit development (PUD) for a 73‑acre tract in the 1300 block of Crawford Road. The applicant, Hayes Iford of Sanford Group representing David Rhine, proposed 223 single‑family lots and about 17 acres of open space/detention areas.
Multiple residents who live along Crawford Road told the commission the state‑controlled road is hazardous. Ezekiel Rollins (1305 Crawford Road) said: "A lot of wrecks have happened there," and warned that additional entrances would increase risk because vehicles "fly down that road." Alan Garner (1304 Crawford Road) and Sheree Garner (1210 Crawford Road) described steep shoulders, limited sight lines and the neighborhood character of larger lots (half‑acre to 5 acres). Amanda Woodson (1308 Crawford Road) and Kenara Smith (1403 Crawford Road) also raised safety concerns for bus stops and daily travel.
Staff and the applicant discussed technical governance issues. Staff noted Crawford Road is a state‑controlled route and any new access requires Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) approval. Hayes Iford, representing the developer, said ALDOT has "very strict requirements" and that turn lanes and other roadway improvements would be required once the zoning and inputs are known; he added the applicant would coordinate with ALDOT but that their review would require detailed inputs on the proposed development. Iford said the PUD approach enables a mix of lot sizes and added open space to preserve trees and create shared amenities.
After discussion, a commissioner moved to table the rezoning to the next meeting to allow for deeper study; the motion carried. Staff noted that because the next meeting was within 30 days (about 28 days away), tabling would not be automatic and the commission would need to vote again at the subsequent meeting.
Why it matters: The proposal would increase residential density along a state highway where neighbors and staff raised safety, access and compatibility issues. ALDOT approval will be required for any new access points.
Ending: The commission tabled the rezoning to allow further study of traffic, access and compatibility issues; the item may return with additional analysis or modifications.
