Commission advances Forest Glen preliminary plat for 97 townhomes near treatment plant

The Eustis City Commission considered Resolution 26-17 on Feb. 19, a preliminary subdivision plat for a proposed townhome project named Forest Glen (approximately 97 units on ~23.13 acres). Staff described the site layout, noting approximately 15.47 acres of developable (non-wetland) land, an anticipated density of about 6.27 dwelling units per acre in the dry area, and roughly 47% open space (about 7.28 acres) with dedicated park elements including a dog park and playfield.

The applicant requested two waivers: 1) no landscape buffer along the west property line adjacent to the treatment plant, and 2) a sidewalk alignment that avoids wetlands by running on the east side of Palmetto. The applicant and engineer addressed concerns about flooding, stormwater permitting (St. Johns River Water Management permit obtained), traffic and pedestrian safety; design commitments included speed tables, striping, street lighting and a photometric plan to be submitted in construction documents. The applicant also said they would dedicate an additional 10 feet of right-of-way along Palmetto to create a 50-foot dedicated right-of-way.

Public commenters asked about density, affordability and infrastructure. The applicant said the property is entitled for up to 12 units per acre and the proposed plan is substantially below that maximum. After questions and public input, the commission approved the preliminary plat and associated waivers and directed staff to process subsequent engineering and plat steps per the DRC and final-plat process.