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Alachua County approves Chestnut Townhome preliminary plan for 72 attached units
Summary
The commission unanimously approved a preliminary development plan for Chestnut Townhome (about 10 acres, up to 72 attached units), with staff noting the applicant will preserve two landmark live oaks, provide roughly double required open space and proceed to final development plan review.
The Alachua County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a preliminary development plan April 28 for the Chestnut Townhome subdivision, a proposed 72‑unit attached single‑family project on roughly 10 acres.
County staff planner Leslie McClendon presented the PDP, noting the site’s medium‑density residential future land use and R1B zoning, the requirement to save at least 10% of tree canopy and the presence of two landmark live oaks. “They are proposing to save 36,” McClendon said, referring to preserved trees and canopy area, and staff recommended approval of Resolution 2609.
Applicant Clay Swagger of EDA Consultants described the project as a “hole in the donut” infilling a developed neighborhood with stubbed street connections to surrounding subdivisions, a stormwater system, and enhanced open space and landscaping. Swagger said the proposal provides about 40% green space—well above the 10% minimum—and on‑street visitor parking to serve neighbors.
Commission discussion focused on buffers, tree preservation and pedestrian connectivity. The applicant said common‑area landscaping and a 10‑foot multiuse path will provide separation between new units and adjacent backyards; fences where appropriate will remain along property lines. The commission moved and seconded approval; the motion passed unanimously.
Next steps: the applicant will proceed to final PDP/FDP review and permitting consistent with county codes and the conditions on the approved PDP.
