Planning commission approves Square at Big Cove plat after residents raise traffic, flood concerns

The Huntsville Planning Commission voted to approve a series of approvals for the Square at Big Cove subdivision on Aug. 26, including a zoning plat, layout and preliminary approval for 53 lots and final approval on a two‑lot zoning plat for the portion immediately north of Shaney Drive.

The project is located southeast of the city, north of Shaney Drive and east of Wade Road and is approximately 11.09–11.23 acres in the phases discussed. Commission chair Les Tillery presided. Marcus (planning staff) introduced the items and the subdivision committee recommended layout and preliminary approval; the commission approved the measures by voice vote.

Why it matters: residents who live near Wade Road and the Greenway told commissioners they worry about additional traffic and limited parking, and raised questions about whether portions of the site had been altered from an earlier floodway. Developer representatives and engineering consultants said they will dedicate right-of-way, construct roadway improvements adjacent to the site and raise portions of the development to…