Large Ocala Road PUD approved after developer commits up to $100,000 toward off‑site traffic improvements

The Rutherford County Planning Commission on Dec. 8 approved a Planned Unit Development (PUD) on roughly 21 acres north of I‑840 at Ocala Road that includes a developer commitment to contribute up to $100,000 toward off‑site traffic improvements.

Staff noted the PUD had been deferred previously to clarify timing and funding for off‑site improvements. Applicant engineers (Matt Taylor of SCC) explained their cost‑sharing approach: they calculated the project’s proportional share of delay and future traffic at three problem locations — the Ocala/Amaville intersection, the eastbound I‑840 ramp at Amaville, and a right‑turn lane needed on the eastbound ramp — then applied that percentage to the estimated cost of the required improvements. The applicant concluded its equitable share across the improvements totaled roughly $98,000 and rounded the pledge to $100,000 in the project pattern book while a legal developer agreement is drafted.

Taylor said the traffic studies show delays and deficiencies that predate the project but that the proposed development will add trips and should participate in cost‑sharing for improvements. Staff and the applicant emphasized that TDOT would need to approve any work on state routes and that the county commission ultimately would review and approve any developer agreement for off‑site work.

Commissioner discussion focused on whether $100,000 was an equitable share and on how remaining costs would be allocated among other developers and the county. Staff said the aim is to use a developer agreement that sets a clear contribution schedule (for example, payable before building permits or certificates of occupancy) and to coordinate with TDOT and other developers with projects in the same interchange area. The motion to approve the PUD was made subject to staff comments and to execution of the development agreement; the motion carried by roll call.

What this means: The PUD approval authorizes the applicant to proceed in accordance with the pattern book and submitted plans; the county and applicant will now finalize a developer agreement that sets the timing and mechanism for the pledged contribution toward intersection signalization and ramp improvements. TDOT’s review and approval remain required for any state‑route work.

Next steps: Applicant and staff will finalize a development agreement for the county commission to review that documents the $100,000 commitment, cost‑sharing approach, and project phasing. TDOT coordination for ramp and turn‑lane work will continue.