Planning board approves WoodSpring Suites site plan with landscaping, fencing and other conditions

The Planning Board recommended approval May 12 of a major site plan for a four‑story WoodSpring Suites extended‑stay hotel at 2480 South Jenkins Road, subject to seven staff conditions and one board‑added amendment requiring an eight‑foot minimum fence where the hotel adjoins residential properties.

Planning staff said the proposal is for a 122‑room extended‑stay hotel totaling about 48,100 gross square feet on approximately 3.39 acres, with 135 parking spaces (six accessible). The applicant provided a revised design incorporating additional architectural articulation and a landscape plan showing 117 proposed trees and 575 shrubs, a majority of native species. Staff notes that tree mitigation, landscape maintenance agreements and dumpster/enclosure details will be required and that streetscape or outdoor recreational improvements should be provided near the stormwater pond.

The property is bordered on the north and east by single‑family residences and the board and applicant discussed screening. Planning staff’s recommended condition 6 asked for a concrete, wood or vinyl buffer fence to separate residential uses; the board amended that condition to require a minimum 8‑foot fence height. Applicant Nelson Mohan (civil engineer) said project teams will coordinate on screening, dumpster enclosure updates, and engineering comments.

Ms. Clemens moved approval of the site plan with the seven staff conditions and the board’s amendment requiring an eight‑foot minimum fence; Mr. Edwards seconded. Roll call votes were recorded as: Mr. Edwards — yes; Mr. Whiting — yes; Mr. Johnson — yes; Ms. Clemens — yes; Chairman Bridal — yes. The item will proceed to City Commission.