Selected Area Study. Existing Conditions Profile

Transcription

1 East Polk County Selected Area Study Existing Conditions Profile

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3 Contents 1.0 Introduction Study Area General Description Orlando/I-4 Context Polk County/US 27 Context Central Florida Regional Growth Vision 2.0 Environmental Regional Environmental Context Environmental Systems Wales Ridge & Scenic Highway Corridor 3.0 Land Use Existing Land Use Publci Facilities Residential Density Snapshot & Area Character Utility Service Areas Overlay Districts Future Land Use Population Pending Development Development Opportunities 4.0 Transportation Existing Network Existing Traffic Volumes 2030 Long Range Feasibility Model Future/Planned Network 5.0 Guiding Principles Assessment Summary & Key Conclusions Guiding Principles

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5 1.0 Introduction

6 Study Area General Description This Existing Conditions Analysis for the East Polk County Selected Area Study provides a preliminary overview or snapshot of the study area that will serve as the basis for developing a land use vision for the area. This document is organized into the following sections: 1.0 Introduction Outlines the study area and places the study area in its regional context. 2.0 Environmental Outlines the key environmental issues. 3.0 Land Use Outlines a range of land use influences on development including existing development patterns, future land use and pending development. 4.0 Transportation Summarizes the existing and proposed transportation network. 5.0 Guiding Principles Summarizes the existing conditions analysis into key conclusions and defines a set of draft Guiding Principles that will be used to solicit stakeholder and citizen input and guide the development of the land use vision and recommendations. The includes approximately 22,610 acres of property located in East Polk County, Florida. Of the 22,610 acres, 5,332 acres are within the city limits of the City of Dundee and 2, 150 acres are within the city limits of the City of Hamilton. The northern boundary of the study area follows the Haines City Selected Area Plan southern boundary and the city limits of Hamilton. The western boundary follows the western edge of Hamilton to the City of Dundee city limits south to the Winter Haven eastern city limits. The southern boundary follows the Winter Haven city limits south to Waverly. The southern boundary then follows the city limit lines of Winter Haven and Wales north of Mabel to Mabel Loop and extends north on Mabel Loop to Dekle. The southern boundary then moves east to St. Helena and north along the City of Dundee Utility Service Area Boundary until midway between Tindel Camp and Canal. The southern boundary then moves east to Pierce. The eastern boundary follows the shore of Pierce north to the Haines City Selected Area Plan Boundary. 1.1

7 Swann Bannon Island Island Little Hamilton 544 Marion Kokomo Water Tank Tank Hamilton Hatchineha - - CR CR Daisy 27 Crystal Dundee -SR 542 Annie 17 Mabel Loop Trask H.L Smith Jennings Watkins Parton Ranch Rd. Waverly Waverly - - SR SR Lincoln Lincoln Avenue Camp Endeavor Endeavor Blvd. Almburg Stalnaker Tindel Camp Camp Canal Ridge Scenic Hwy. Steward Detour Rd. Study Area Legend Haines City Boundary Hamilton Boundary Dundee Boundary Wales Boundary Winter Haven Boundary Major s Weiburg East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Pierce Timberlane 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles Aerial Date: March

8 The Orlando/I-4 Context The US 27 corridor, while historically agricultural in nature, is experiencing the pressure of growth from Metropolitan Orlando and the south Orange County tourist area. The East Polk County Selected Area Study sits along the US 27 corridor within a 30 to 40 minute commute of the Walt Disney World area. Major commercial and residential growth is beginning to extend down the corridor from the Four Corners area at I-4, to Haines City, and south to Dundee Growth Trend The seven county (Volusia, Seminole,, Orange, Brevard, Osceola, and Polk) Central Florida Region is projected to grow in population from approximately 3.5 million today to over 7 million by the year In Polk County, this represents an additional 400,000 people, almost doubling its current population. 1.3

9 Orange County Osceola County W. Tohopekaliga Hillsborough County Polk County Pasco County Sumter County Sumter County County The Orlando/ I-4 Context Legend County Polk County Major s Polk County City Boundaries s WALT DISNEY WORLD 429 CELEBRATION ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 10 MILES Distance from South Orange County/Orlando International Airport Distance from Downtown Tampa POINCIANA 20 MILES Florida s Turnpike East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary 30 MILES 17 Kissimmee 40 MILES MILES 30 MILES 40 MILES 50 River Kissimmee Polk County Highlands County 1.4

10 Polk County/US 27 Context The is situated within the context of Polk County s historic and growing towns and cities including Winter Haven, Haines City, Wales, Hamilton, and Dundee. The towns of Wales, Dundee, Hamilton, and Haines City, developed along the SR 17 corridor and rail lines serving the growing citrus and cattle ranching industries of the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Ridge Scenic Highway, along SR 17, winds along the Wales Ridge, through these historic small towns of Dundee and Hamilton providing memorable views of Polk County s lakes and Bok Tower. These small towns served as the industrial and distribution centers for the surrounding agricultural lands. Dundee was platted in 1911 by the Highlands Development Company, and incorporated in It was the first new town platted on the Haines City- Sebring branch for the railroad. The first industries were the Mixon Sawmill Company, the Rayburn Turpentine Distillery, and Glen St. Mary Nursery. Today, the area s citrus groves are being replaced by residential subdivisions. As dramatic frosts, foreign competition and diseases marginalized the economic viability of the small scale citrus groves, population growth in Central Florida has increased development pressure on agricultural lands. 1.5

11 Polk County/ US 27 Context Legend s Alfred 92 Haines City Simplified Wetlands 27 Major s Railroad East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Winter Haven 544 Hamilton 17 Hamilton Hatchineha Marion Hatchineha 17 Dundee Dundee Eloise Waverly Annie Pierce Wales BOK TOWER 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. 0 1/2 1 Miles

12 Central Florida Regional Growth Vision This regional vision plan is the result of a broad community conversation that was finalized in August 2007 with the publication of How Shall We Grow? A Shared Vision for Central Florida. This document presents a Vision, Policy Framework, and Action Plan that offers a strategic direction for Central Florida s future. The Vision is based on four themes: Conservation Enjoying Central Florida s most precious resources lands, waters, air, and wildlife; Countryside Maintaining Central Florida s heritage of agriculture and small villages; Centers Hamlets, villages, towns and cities a variety of places to live, work, and play; and Corridors Connecting our region with more choices for how people and freight move. The Policy Framework is guided by six Principles: Development Preference Map (Regional) The Regional Development Preference map, developed through the Visioning process, illustrates citizen recommendations for the distribution of future population. Darker colors indicate higher levels of density. Development Preference Map (Study Area) The Development Preference Map, when translated to the study area scale (see larger Growth Vision study area map), illustrates the desire to focus development along the US 27 corridor with lower intensity development extending to the east. Much of the eastern portion of the study area is envisioned as preserve and/or lower intensity development. A critical issue will be defining the appropriate level of density and intensity of development and preservation that is consistent with the Regional Vision. Development Preference Map (Regional) Source: Central Florida Regional Growth Vision Miles Preserve open space, recreational areas, farmland, water resources and regionally significant areas. 2. Provide a variety of transportation choices. 3. Foster distinctive, attractive and safe places to live. 4. Encourage a diverse, globally competitive economy. 5. Create a range of obtainable housing opportunities and choices. 6. Build communities with educational, health care, and cultural amenities. 1.7

13 Swann Bannon Island Island Little Hamilton 544 Marion Kokomo Hamilton Hatchineha - - CR CR Daisy 27 Crystal Trask H.L Smith Jennings Watkins Parton Ranch Rd. Dundee -SR 542 Annie 17 Waverly - - SR SR Lincoln Lincoln Avenue Camp Endeavor Endeavor Blvd. Water Tank Tank Almburg Stalnaker Tindel Camp Camp Canal Ridge Scenic Hwy. Steward Detour Rd. Central Florida Regional Growth Vision Legend Major s Preserve Weiburg s High to Low Density East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Mabel Loop Pierce Timberlane 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles Source: Adapted from MyRegion.org, Central Florida Visioning Effort How Shall We Grow? 1.8

14 ONE BAY Overview On May 18, 2007, the Tampa Bay region hosted a growth visioning exercise called Reality Check Tampa Bay. Reality Check was a one-day exercise designed to discuss, analyze and develop alternative growth scenarios for our rapidly growing region through Reality Check was designed to accomplish four tasks: Promote a region wide awareness of the level of growth that is coming Allocate projected housing and employment growth between and among jurisdictions Recognize the legitimate points of view of different stakeholders Lay the foundation for the development of a concrete list of next steps to assure quality growth to meet the region s needs over the next two decades One Bay is the follow-through effort from Reality Check Tampa Bay. ONE BAY is a diverse network of leaders, community and economic development experts and resources, all aligned to help the community address the opportunities and challenges of growth and development. The Tampa Bay region, which includes Polk County, is expected to grow by 2.0 million residents by 2030 and double in population by the year 2050 to over 7 million people. Growth in the Tampa Bay region will come primarily from new residents attracted by the region s hot economy and diverse communities. By accommodating growth in different and better ways, it is possible to harness the vitality of the region s growth allowing choices to fulfill life s possibilities for all, now and in the future. Community Principles for Growth The following guiding principles were developed at the Reality Check Tampa Bay exercise: Promote quality communities to create a sense of place by uniquely clustering higher density mixed-use development, organized around transportation corridors. Maximize mobility using multi-modal transportation. Preserve natural systems, emphasizing connectivity and sustainable water supplies. Balance jobs and housing for affordable quality of life. Attract higher paying jobs strengthen economic development. Preserve farmland and sustain the role of agriculture Land Developed: 493,110 acres Population: 1.7 Million Employment: 517, Land Developed: Population: Employment: 2050 Land Developed: Population: Employment: 876,696 acres 3.8 Million 2.2 Million 1.6 Million acres 7 Million 3.8 Million Employment & Population Compilation Participants, led by trained facilitators, join 10-person groups to use a detailed map to plan future growth by placing Lego building blocks to represent additional homes and jobs. These individuals were asked to determine where new residents will live and new employment will locate. This map is a compilation of data from those groups. 1.9

15 Initial Observations & Results Population Projection Allocations Participants in the Reality Check exercise were given region-wide population projections utilizing Legos to represent population and employment growth. The exercise was designed give the participants choices on the allocation and location of population growth for each county taking into consideration the interconnectedness of the region. No county lines were provided on the regional map. Participants were not instructed to place specific allocations to specific counties, however, participants were given the projections by county in the Participant Guidebook for reference. Generally, even though participants placed growth in already developed areas, it is less than what the population and employment projection models indicated. That statement may be interpreted as a prescription for sprawl. Rather, tables placed an emphasis on higher density activity centers and mixeduse. The locations were then connected with roads and transit. Counties that were allocated more population than projected by the participants included Hernando, Manatee, Sarasota and Polk counties. Counties that received less population than projected included Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough. Counties that had more employment than projected included Hernando, Pasco, Manatee and Polk with Hernando, Pasco and Polk receiving nearly double the projected numbers. Counties that received less employment than projected included Hillsborough, Pinellas and Sarasota. Polk County Red Legos Total 1 Avg/Table 2 Jobs/Table 3 REMI5 2, , ,076 Yellow Legos Total Avg/Table Persons/Table 4 REMI 6, , ,265 Source: Reality Check Exercise Results & Summary Report All 32 tables combined. 2 Average # Legos per table. 3 Each Red Lego represents 3,840 jobs 4 Each Yellow Lego represents 3,160 people 5 REMI Regional Economic Model Indicators Sample table photo of Polk County Lego scenarios. The Urban Land Institute Tampa Bay District Council and the Tampa Bay Partnership Regional Research & Education Foundation/Vision21 has partnered with Southwest Florida Water Management District, the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, and the Tampa Bay Estuary Program to continue the work from Reality Check Tampa Bay through the ONE BAY initiative. Members from each of these organizations make up an Executive Committee responsible for guiding the successful implementation of Reality Check Tampa Bay. The Tampa Bay Partnership Regional Research & Education Foundation is the organization managing the overall program. For more information go to

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17 2.0 Environmental

18 Regional Environmental Context The lies within one of the most ecologically important regions of the State of Florida, and almost 2/3 of this study area lies within the Wales Ridge. Regionally, there are important systems that flank the study area on the east and west. The western boundary of the study area contains a linear pattern of lakes (Little Hamilton, Hamilton, Crystal ) that are loosely linked together via wetlands and rangelands. The eastern portion of the study area contains the most remaining natural vegetation, including a mosaic of large wetland systems, rangeland, and upland forest that still form a viable connection to a large habitat corridor that runs from County down to Kissimmee parallel to the Wales Ridge. This connection is one of the most vested by the State of Florida for conservation lands and is important to the East Polk County Selected Area Study. The Green Swamp This is one of the state s most valuable natural hydrologic resources. The swamp is a critical water recharge area and is the source for multiple rivers and streams and supports large wetland systems. The Wales Ridge The Wales Ridge contains over 40 species of listed plants and animals and is an important aquifer recharge area. The ridge is the oldest stretch of land in Florida due to its high elevation formed over 650,000 years ago. The ridge extends from southern Highlands County north to the rolling hills just west of Apopka. The ridge was formed from tidal activity that left most of the Florida peninsula under water, but created sand dunes and sandhills that, over time, formed islands isolated from the mainland of North America. This isolation led to the evolution of numerous plant and animal species unique to the ridge, and today many are listed by state or federal agencies as endangered or threatened. Notable listed species associated with the ridge include the Florida Scrub Jay and the Sand Skink. These species as well as a large number of others receive regulatory protection, and developments must obtain permits when impacting documented areas. The Kissimmee River To the east, the Kissimmee River extends from Tohopekaliga south along the Polk/Osceola County border and ultimately to Okeechobee and the Florida Everglades. This river system is a sensitive ecosystem that when impacted affects significant portions of the state and the state s most important ecological resource, the Everglades. 2.1

19 Orange County Osceola County W. Tohopekaliga 60 Hillsborough County Polk County Pasco County Sumter County Sumter County County Regional Environmental Context Legend County Polk County Major s Polk County 33 Florida Managed Lands Green Swamp Wales Ridge s Florida s Turnpike East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary 17 Kissimmee River Kissimmee Polk County Highlands County 2.2 Source: Florida Forever Green Swamp BOT Project 1999 and FNAI 2007

20 Environmental Systems Within the study area, much of the area defined as the Wales Ridge has been converted to agricultural uses, primarily citrus, due to the desirability of the sandy, well-drained soils that are characteristic of this region. The primary habitat of the ridge is a mosaic of ancient scrub that includes low scrubby oaks, some sand pine, and an open ground cover that includes a variety of species, such as the native rosemary. Of this existing vegetation, none is represented by the historically valuable longleaf pine xeric oak scrub that the Wales Ridge is known for. However, some environment systems remain including including the lakes, wetlands, rangeland, and upland forest (primarily pine). s The area contains several lakes which serve as both recreational and ecological value. Pierce, while outside of the study area, is connected to the mosaic of remaining habitat in the eastern part of the area, also serving as a connection to the corridors of native habitat and managed areas to the east of the study area. The Hamilton chain of lakes ( Hamilton, Little Hamilton) along with Crystal and Annie flank the western half of the study area boundary and provide additional benefits. Several small lakes dot the interior and provide opportunities for recreation within the developing portions of the area. Some lakes have been modified previously by mining or development. Because these lakes will require mitigation or reclamation, there may be opportunities in these locations to meet other outstanding infrastructure needs as part of this reclamation, like transportation or recreation facilities. Impaired Drainage Basins One drainage basin within the study area is identified as impaired by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Peace Creek Canal Drainage Basin. To date, a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) has been set for fecal coliform bacteria. Impacts to potential growth are relatively minor and require that drainage systems adhere to management practices that implement a basin management action plan prescribed to meet the TMDL set for prescribed pollutants. Range Land In these areas, the natural vegetation is predominantly grasses, grass-like plants, forbs or shrubs and is capable of being grazed. Management practices may include brush control, regulation of grazing intensity and season of use. Generally, this land is not fertilized, cultivated or irrigated. Upland Forests These areas are those uplands which support a tree canopy closure of ten percent or more. The Upland Forests include both the xeric (drysite) and mesic (moderately moist site) forest communities. Wetlands There are large collections of wetlands between Marion and Pierce as well as along a large portion of the US 27 corridor running south from Hamilton. Floodplain Related to the wetland areas, there are large areas of 100 year floodplain particularly running south from Hamilton along US 27. This, coupled with the wetlands and mucky soils, constrains development along the US 27 corridor and also limits east-west road connectivity. 2.3

21 Swann Bannon Island Island Little Hamilton 544 Marion Kokomo Hamilton Hatchineha - - CR CR Daisy 27 Crystal Trask H.L Smith Jennings Watkins Parton Ranch Rd. Dundee -SR 542 Annie 17 Waverly - - SR SR Lincoln Lincoln Avenue Camp Endeavor Endeavor Blvd. Water Tank Tank Almburg Stalnaker Tindel Camp Camp Canal Ridge Scenic Hwy. Steward Detour Rd. Environmental Systems Legend Major s Range Land Upland Forests Wetlands Floodplains Weiburg s East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Mabel Loop Pierce Timberlane 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles Source: SWFWMD FLUCFCCS,

22 Drainage Map - With the exception of the Mable Basin, which is a closed basin, rain water drains east or west, depending on the side of the Ridge it falls on. Most of the eastern two-thirds of the Study Area drains into Pierce, which itself drains east to the Kissimmee River. The northeastern corner drains into Marion, which also eventually drains to the Kissimmee River. The western third of the Study Area drains mostly into the Peace Creek Drainage Canal. This canal system drains to the west and empties into the Peace River, which flows south through central Polk County. The northwestern tip of the Study Area drains into Hamilton. Soils Map - The Soils Map on the opposite page shows how the well drained soils are located primarily along the Ridge. As previously mentioned, these high sandy areas were once islands during ancient warming periods. It is precisely these well drained soils that have encouraged the historical and current development of the Ridge in terms of both agriculture and urbanization. Poorly drained soils flank the range on both the east and west, and cluster around lakes and depressional areas. 2.5

23 Drainage Legend Drainage Basins Water Bodies Soils Legend Hydric Soils Hydrologic Group A B C D B/D 2.6 Source: Floriad Department of Environmental Protection, 2002 Source: USDA SSURGO Dataset, 1990

24 The Ridge Scenic Highway along SR 17 winds along the Wales Ridge, and through historic communities, agricultural fields, and natural landscapes. The Ridge Scenic Highway offers everchanging views with each curve in the road, and each change in elevation and change in adjacent uses creates a new visual experience for the traveler. In general, the scenic highway has four types of views: Historic Community Center This is where the scenic highway travels through historic communities, providing views of historic structures, government buildings, and cultural facilities. These historic communities represent an important and visible part of the area s history. The East Polk County Selected Area Study includes the Towns of Dundee and Hamilton that are important historical communities within the study area. Rural Residential These areas are usually located near the entrance to towns and villages, near crossroads, or along lakes. This pattern of residential development reflects the transition between town and country and is usually rural or agricultural in density. Citrus Agriculture In these areas, tall lush citrus groves line the highway, providing a glimpse of the area s agricultural past. It is interesting to note that Polk County the second amount of farm land in the state with an estimated 626,634 acres in The $878 million citrus industry employs approximately 8,000 people in the County. Polk ranked first in the state for total citrus picked for the season and in the amount of commercial citrus groves according to a 2004 estimate. (Source: Polk Land Stewardship Alliance, May 25, 2007.) Wales Ridge & Scenic Corridor Viewsheds Cattle Grazing These areas provide views of cattle and grazing lands, usually terminated by tall pines. Polk County remains the sixth most productive agricultural county in Florida and was ranked third in the State in 2004 in number of beef cattle. (Source: Polk Land Stewardship Alliance, May 25, 2007.) Scenic Viewsheds There are several locations along the Ridge Scenic Highway that are particularly memorable, where the roadway bends along a large lake or hilltop, providing unhindered views of the water and hills beyond. The Ridge Scenic Highway Corridor Management Plan proposes a number of scenic pull-off locations, three of which are within the East Polk County Selected Area Study (see Wales Ride and Scenic Corridor Viewsheds map). At these locations, off-road pull-offs are planned so that travelers can park their cars and read about the local history and ecology. The green hatched areas on the Viewsheds map graphically represent the vista that a traveler can view from the roadway at the indicated points. The preservation of open space and active agriculture production is important within the viewsheds at these locations. It is also important to consider the design and form of development within these viewsheds, including appropriate landscaping, maintenance of the tree lines, clustering, and site planning. Hamilton Scenic Pull-off and Viewshed From the viewpoint of Hamilton s town park, travelers can view Gordon and the hill and water tower behind it. 2.7 Dundee Scenic Pull-off Viewshed Just south of Downtown Dundee, the road travels along the west bank of Marie. Travelers in this area can see open views of the lake, homes, and the hills beyond. Bok Tower Scenic Pull-off Viewshed Just south of Waverly and north of of the Hills there is a dramatic view of Bok Tower and the surrounding citrus grove landscape. Note: It is important to consider and protect other viewsheds, such as those along Canal that affect the view to Bok Tower.

25 Lincoln Lincoln Avenue Bannon Island Island Little Hamilton 544 Marion Kokomo Hamilton LAKE HAMILTON HAMILTON VIEWSHED Hatchineha - - CR CR Crystal DUNDEE VIEWSHED VIEWSHED Water Tank Tank H.L Smith Watkins Parton Ranch Rd. Jennings Dundee -SR Daisy Annie Waverly - - SR SR Almburg Stalnaker Canal Ridge Scenic Hwy. Detour Rd. Wales Ridge & Scenic Corridor Viewsheds Legend Major s View Sheds Ridgeline Contours Weiburg Wales Ridge s East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Mabel Loop Pierce Timberlane BOK TOWER TOWER VIEWSHED VIEWSHED 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles Source: Ridge Scenic Highway Corridor Management Plan 2.8

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27 3.0 Land Use

28 Existing Land Use The existing land use map represents a portrait or snapshot of the area s current land use and development pattern. For simple illustrative purposes the pattern of land use has been organized into a number of basic categories. Commercial areas of retail, office or industrial development Public/Institutional schools or other public uses Residential (less than 1 acre lots) residential areas in urban areas or historic town centers Residential (greater than 1 acre lots) residential areas in rural or agricultural areas This portrait highlights a range of distinct patterns including: The suburban pattern of growth extending from Winter Haven on the west; The historic town patterns of Hamilton, Dundee, and Waverly; The extensive pattern of existing citrus groves east of SR 17; and The low density rural development of the eastern portion of the study area north of Pierce. Wetlands regionally identified wetland systems Agriculture active agricultural uses, typically citrus groves Undeveloped lands that are no longer citrus groves and/or are undeveloped 3.1

29 Bannon Island Island Marion Kokomo Jennings DUNDEE ELEM. SCHOOL SCHOOL Watkins D.E. WOODS WOODS CENTER CENTER DEPOT MUSEUM LAKE ANNIE ANNIE BOAT RAMP RAMP DUNDEE MIDDLE MIDDLE SCHOOL SCHOOL E. CENTRAL CENTRAL PARK PARK Daisy Annie 17 GARDEN GROVE GROVE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WAVERLY PARK PARK Hatchineha - - CR CR SANDHILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL H.L Smith Parton Ranch Rd. Dundee -SR 542 Waverly - - SR SR Lincoln Lincoln Avenue Camp Endeavor Endeavor Blvd. Water Tank Tank Steward Detour Rd. Existing Land Use Legend Major s Commercial/ Industrial Public / Institutional Residential <1 Acre Lots Residential >1 Acre Lots Wetlands s Weiburg Agriculture Undeveloped Polk County Schools Parks Polk Historic Sites East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Mabel Loop Stalnaker Pierce Timberlane 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles 3.2

30 Public Facilities Schools There are three schools within the boundary of the study area: Dundee Elementary Sandhill Elementary Dundee Ridge Middle Garden Grove Elementary lies just to the west of the study area. Fire There are four fire stations within the boundary of the study area, and two additional stations just outside. The four stations are located within Hamilton, Dundee, Waverly, and south of the Sun Air Country Club. Police One police station is located in the center of the Town of Dundee. Library One public library is located in the center of the Town of Dundee. 3.3

31 Public Facilities Map Legend Schools Libraries Fire Stations Police Stations East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. 0 1/2 1 Miles Source: Polk County GIS Department 3.4

32 Existing Residential Density Snapshots The Existing Residential Density Snapshot map graphically illustrates the general existing density within the vicinity of the study area. The progression of built residential development generally becomes lower in density moving from west to east, with suburban density of two and a half (2.5) to four (4) dwelling units per acre west of and along SR 17, tapering to larger lots and lower densities to the eastern edge of the study area. A B C Residential development along SR 17 Residential neighborhood Dundee Large lot residential - Polk County D E Downtown Waverly F Dundee Town Center G J Cherry Pocket Restaurant and Camp H Marie Park and Trail I Orange groves across Hamilton 3.5 Waverly Water Tower Hamilton Bank in downtown

33 Existing Residential Density Snapshots Legend Major s Little Hamilton Detour Rd. Bannon Island 544 Marion East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Hamilton H 27 Dundee -SR 542 J Crystal E B Kokomo LAKE HAMILTON Gross Density: 4.0 DUA (Lot Size: 0.18 Ac) Hatchineha - CR 542 Weiburg DUNDEE Gross Density: 2.5 DUA (Lot Size: 0.25 Ac) G H.L Smith Water Tank Parton Ranch Rd. Jennings POINCIANA Gross Density: 3.3 DUA (Lot Size: 0.25 Ac) POLK COUNTY Gross Density: 0.27 DUA (Lot Size: 5 Ac) 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. 0 1/2 1 Miles Ruby WINTER HAVEN Gross Density: 3.0 DUA (Lot Size: 0.24 Ac) Waverly - SR 540 Lincoln Avenue Camp Endeavor Blvd. D Annie 17 Steward Almburg Stalnaker WAVERLY Gross Density: 3.5 DUA (Lot Size: 0.16 Ac) I 3.6 Mabel A Mabel Loop Canal POLK COUNTY Gross Density: 0.86 DUA (Lot Size: 1 Ac) C Timberlane F POLK COUNTY Gross Density: 4.4 DUA (Lot Size:.22 Ac) Pierce

34 Utility Service Areas The area is covered by a number of utility service districts related to the adjacent municipalities of Haines City, Dundee, Hamilton and the unincorporated area of Waverly. While detailed agreements and negotiations are on-going regarding any district overlaps, the Town of Dundee s Utility Service District covers the major portion of the study area along with the Hamilton District. The Dundee Utility Service District ultimately represents the future extent of urban development in the area and covers a significant amount of land that is currently agricultural in use WINTER HAVEN UTILITY SERVICE BOUNDARY 544 HAINES CITY UTILITY SERVICE BOUNDARY 544 GRENELEFE RESORT UTILITY SERVICE BOUNDARY DUNDEE UTILITY SERVICE BOUNDARY WAVERLY UTILITY SERVICE BOUNDARY 3.7 LAKE HAMILTON UTILITY SERVICE BOUNDARY

35 Swann Bannon Island Island Little Hamilton 544 Marion Kokomo Water Tank Tank Hamilton Hatchineha - - CR CR Daisy 27 Crystal Trask H.L Smith Jennings Watkins Parton Ranch Rd. Dundee -SR 542 Annie 17 Waverly - - SR SR Lincoln Lincoln Avenue Camp Endeavor Endeavor Blvd. Almburg Stalnaker Tindel Camp Camp Canal Ridge Scenic Hwy. Steward Detour Rd. Utility Service Areas Legend Major s Dundee Waverly Winter Haven Hamilton Haines City Weiburg Grenelefe Resort Utility Inc. s East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Mabel Loop Pierce Timberlane 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles Source: Polk County GIS Department 3.8

36 Overlay Districts Mineral Resource Protection Districts These districts were created to protect known deposits of minerals and soils (lime rock, sand, peat and clay) in appropriate locations for future mining and to not have adverse impacts on existing development. There are several mining areas within the Est Polk County Selected Area Study that have already been mined and are likely candidates for future residential development see Polk County Comprehensive Plan Section C for more details. Airport Impact District These districts were created to ensure that land uses and activities adjacent to public use airports are compatible with continued airport operations. The Chalet Suzanne Airport Impact District influences the southern portion of the study area but generally only affects tall structures (over 200 feet) or activities that would interfere with aircraft, with little or no impact on residential or commercial development see Polk County Land Development Code-Section 641 for more details. Wellhead Protection District These districts were created to safeguard and protect the area s critical water supply. The zones around wellheads regulate and prohibit certain uses including hazardous waste, animal farms, mining, and underground storage tanks see Polk County Land Development Code Section 670 for more details. The Overlay Districts map graphically depicts the Mineral Resource Protection Districts, wellheads, Airport In-flight Interference Zone, Airport Height Notification Zones, and Airport Educational Restrictions. 3.9

37 Swann BANNON ISLAND ROAD MINE MINE Bannon Island Island Little Hamilton 544 WHITE CLAY CLAY PIT ROAD MINE MINE Marion Kokomo Hamilton GRENELEFE DUNDEE MINE MINE Hatchineha - - CR CR RELIABLE PEAT 27 Crystal GRENELEFE HATCHINEHA MINE Trask H.L Smith Jennings Watkins Dundee -SR 542 Daisy Annie 17 Waverly - - SR SR Lincoln Lincoln Avenue Camp Endeavor Endeavor Blvd. Water Tank Tank Almburg Stalnaker Tindel Camp Camp Canal Ridge Scenic Hwy. Steward Detour Rd. Overlay Districts Legend Major s Mineral Resource Protection Districts Wellheads Airport In-flight Interference Zones Airport Height Notification Zones Airport Educational Restrictions s East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Mabel Loop Pierce Timberlane 640 Acres TOWER ROAD ROAD MINE MINE 160 Ac. Ruby Mabel ST. HELENA HELENA ROAD MINE MINE 40 Ac. 0 1/2 1 Miles 3.10

38 Future Land Use The composite Future Land Use Map that includes Haines City, Dundee and Polk County illustrates the need to revisit the County s Future Land Use surrounding these rapidly growing towns and cities. The Town of Dundee continues to expand eastward into former citrus groves, while to the north, Haines City has adopted a future vision that anticipates major residential expansion south to Water Tank. The County s Future Land Use designation surrounding Dundee is predominantly Rural (A/RR) which allows low density (1 unit per 5 acres) residential development. Areas like Waverly to the south are particularly vulnerable to growth without consideration of the community s needs and wants. It is important to determine the appropriate future land use plan for this area before suburban development incrementally limits the options that are available. Polk County Future Land Use FLU Max Allowable Density/Intensity Wetlands and s Floodplain Only DU FAR A/RR-Rural 1 du/5 ac BPC-1- Business Park Center 15 du/ac CAC- Community Activity Center 25 du/ac CC- Convenience Center n/a CE- Commercial Enclave n/a DRI- Development of Regional Impact n/a n/a 0 0 INST-1- Institutional n/a INST-2- Institutional n/a LR- Leisure/Recreation 10 du/ac RL-1- Residential Low 1 du/ac RL-3- Residential Low 3 du/ac RL-4- Residential Low 4 du/ac RM- Residential Medium 7 du/ac RS- Residential Suburban 1 du/5 ac Town of Dundee Future Land Use Categories FLU Max Allowable Density/Intensity DU FAR LDR- Low Density Residential 5.0 du/ac n/a MDR- Medium Density Residential 12 du/ac n/a DT- Downtown Transitional 12 du/ac 2 CIC- Commercial/Industrial 12 du/ac 2 COM- Commercial 12 du/ac 2 PLB- Parks/ Boulevards n/a n/a PB- Public Buildings and Grounds n/a n/a CON- Conservation n/a n/a Haines City Future Land Use FLU Max Allowable Density/Intensity DU FAR 6 du/ac NMU-Neighborhood Mixed Use* RMU 24 du/ac 2 EO 10 du/ac 0.7 RP-1 1 du/ac n/a LDR 4 du/ac n/a CP n/a 0.7 CC n/a 0.35 CE n/a 0.35 IN n/a 0.7 * Reference for the Haines City Future Land Use table. Neighborhood Mixed Use Land Use Mix: Min. Land Area Max. Land Area Residential 55% 85% Commercial/Retail/Office 10% 30% Public/Civi 10% n/a Public Parks 5% n/a

39 RM RL-1 CIC COM COM CIC LDR MDR NMU A/RR CON LR DT RL-1 PB PLB LDR CAC CP-1 RL-3 A/RR A/RR LDR MDR PB NMU LDR COM COM A/RR LDR CON RS A/RR LR RL-1 RL-4 RL-4 Future Land Use Legend 544 CP EO Town of Dundee Haines City SAP Boundary Marion Town of Hamilton Hamilton INST-1 Waverly Redevelopment District Major s s East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Pending Annexation (Town of Dundee) Source: Polk County GIS Department, Town of Dundee, Haines City, Town of Hamilton Pierce BPC-1 INST-2 RL Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. 0 1/2 1 Miles 3.12

40 Population Estimates To make an estimate of the current population within the study area, a count of all single family and multi-family dwelling units was made using the GIS information from the Polk County Property Appraiser. The opposite page shows a map of the area with all of the single family and multi-family dwelling units identified. To equate these to the current population, a ratio of dwelling units to population was calculated for each Traffic Analysis Zone (TAZ) from the Polk County 2030 Long Range Cost Feasible traffic model. This model generally uses the same ratios from the 2000 census TAZ s to project future population data. The following table summarizes the population estimates for each of the TAZ s within the study area. This analysis reveals that the County has estimated a 76% growth by 2030 over the existing population in the area. However, this does not consider the vast amount of development that has been proposed or approved in the area Long Range Cost Feasibility 2007 Estimate Single Family Multi-Family SF MF TAZ % in SAS DU Pop ratio DU Pop ratio SF Pop MF Pop % 720 1, % 1,369 3, ,509 2, , % 542 1, ,078 1, % 813 2, , % 1,307 3, , , % % 918 2, , % 1,116 2, , % 405 1, % 1,074 2, , , % 675 1, % 703 1, Total Population in SF 10,350 14,876 MF 2,221 7,244 Total 12,571 22,

41 Swann Bannon Island Island Little Hamilton 544 Marion Kokomo Water Tank Tank Hamilton Hatchineha - - CR CR Daisy 27 Crystal Dundee -SR 542 Annie 17 Mabel Loop Trask H.L Smith Jennings Watkins Parton Ranch Rd. Waverly Waverly - - SR SR Camp Endeavor Endeavor Blvd. Almburg Tindel Camp Camp Canal Ridge Scenic Hwy. Steward Detour Rd. Population Estimates Legend Major s Duplex/Mobile Home Park Developments Existing Single Family Housing Units s East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Weiburg Pierce Timberlane 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles Source: Property Appraiser Data 3.14

42 Pending Development There is a significant amount of pending residential development within and around the Town of Dundee. The Pending Development map represents known projects that are in the planning or approval process. Together they represent over 6,000 new residential units and will create impacts on the existing road infrastructure. The growth pressures in this area signify the importance of a coordinated vision for this area to proactively plan for new roadways, schools, parks and open spaces and define the critical natural areas and protected viewsheds Development/Subdivision Name Units Acres Gross Density Unit/ Acres Status Bel Lago Concept Hamilton Unknown Hatchinea Unknown Aladdin s House Certified Valencia Heights Unknown KB Home Project Concept Hilltop Preliminary Belcara Certified Tree O-Groves Preliminary Raley s Grove Certified Fazzini Certified Astoria Heights Concept Sol Vista II Preliminary Vista del Lago II Preliminary Vista del Lago III Preliminary Sol Vista I Concept Citrus Hill Certified Jackson Pointe Certified Mabel Loop Ridge (Phase I) Under Construction Mabel Loop Ridge (Phase II-V) Preliminary Kenmare at Annie Unknown Tea Groves Certified Vista Ridge Preliminary Maria Vista Under Construction Palmway Villas Concept High Point Unknown Walden Vista Unknown Valencia PUD Unknown Ridge at Dundee Unknown Vista del Lago I Unknown TOTAL 6,303 1,

43 Bannon Island Island Little Hamilton Marion Kokomo Hamilton Hatchineha - - CR CR Daisy 1 27 Crystal Annie Jennings Watkins Detour Rd. Pending Development Legend Major s Minor Streets Dundee -SR 542 Waverly - - SR SR Water Tank Tank Proposed New Streets Parcel with Pending Development s East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary 5 Canal Tindel Camp Camp Mabel Loop Pierce Timberlane POTENTIAL HIGH HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles 3.16

44 Development Opportunities In addition to the number of pending development projects, there is a significant amount of undeveloped land (mainly current agriculture) within the study area that is outside the Town of Dundee. An order of magnitude analysis of this undeveloped land that quantifies parcels that are over 10 acres and have less than 25% of their total area covered in wetlands, lakes or floodplain identifies over 5,000 acres of undeveloped land that is ready for development. Of this 5,000 acres there are 1,800 (36%) that are over 40 acres in size under one ownership, suggesting the potential for larger scale, master planned development. This 5,000 acres, developed at 3 units per gross acre (generally the density of the pending development projects), would equate to 15,000 new residential units. It is important to note that this estimate of potential additional units in the study area is general and for visioning purposes only to help identify areas that are ripe for development in terms of limited environmental constraints and large scale properties under single ownership. account factors such as proximity to centers, schools, public safety, utilities, and transportation systems. Similarly, the Residential-Low (RL) land use category within the study area would allow up to five dwelling units per acre (5 DU/AC), however, the County s growth management strategy has established Special- Area Overlay Districts, such as the Wetland-Protection overlay district that would require that residential dwelling units within this category be transferred out of the wetland area, or would set a maximum residential density of one dwelling unit per ten acres (1 DU/10 AC) where there were no non-wetland area on which to transfer the density. In this case, the overlay-area classification does not change the use from residential to another use, but only modifies development of the land to a less intense residential use because of its special constraints. Other land use categories in the study area are governed by maximum allowable densities and overlay districts which must be considered to calculate the development potential and ultimate build-out of the study area. The maximum allowable density in the study area varies based on future land use designation and location. For example, a significant portion of the study area has a future land use designation of Agriculture/Residential-Rural (A/RR) which recognizes the importance of agriculture and provides for its protection and future continuance through the establishment of a base residential density of one dwelling unit per five acres (1 DU/5 AC). However, the permitted uses within A/RR of Rural- Residential Development (RRD) and Rural Mixed-Use Development (RMD) allows for greater residential densities (up to 1 DU/AC) through a land-reservation/ residential density locational system that takes into 3.17

45 Lincoln Lincoln Avenue Bannon Island Island Little Hamilton 544 Marion Kokomo Water Tank Tank Hamilton Hatchineha - - CR CR Crystal Trask H.L Smith Watkins Parton Ranch Rd. Jennings Dundee -SR Daisy Annie Waverly - - SR SR Stalnaker Tindel Camp Camp Canal Ridge Scenic Hwy. Detour Rd. Development Opportunities Legend Major s Minor Streets Parcel with Pending Development Development Opportunities (10-40 Acres) Weiburg Development Opportunities (40+ Acres) s East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Mabel Loop Pierce Timberlane 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles 3.18

46

47 4.0 Transportation

48 Existing Network The primary transportation network in the study area is comprised of a limited set of existing highways that connect the Town of Dundee and the surrounding area to the greater region (see Existing Network map). These include: US 27 Which is the primary north-south highway in this portion of East Polk County. US 27 is a 6-lane median divided highway on the FDOT Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) with full access intersections spaced ½ mile apart. The level or service standard for most of US 27 is C -- the highest standard of any roadway in the area. US 27 provides regional access north to Interstate 4 (Four Corners, Orlando, Disney, etc.) and south to Miami. The Ridge Scenic Highway (SR 17) This highway is the historic north/south route connecting Haines City to Frostproof and is one of Polk County s first regional roads developed in This corridor was officially designated as a Scenic Corridor in 2005, providing it special status and funding opportunities to protect its historic and scenic character. East-West Connections Dundee and Waverly (SR 540) s provide the only regional east-west connections from US 27 and the Ridge Scenic Highway, connecting the area to Winter Haven. Hatchineha (CR 542) provides the only east-west connection east of the Ridge Scenic Highway. The remaining existing road network can be organized into three categories: Historic Town Network These towns, developed in the early 1900s, include Hamilton and Dundee. They were platted along the rail line with small lots and blocks that created a traditional pattern of connected streets. Suburban Subdivisions Growing from the eastern portion of Winter Haven, this pattern of suburban residential development is many times disconnected, placing much of the transportation burden on the limited existing regional network. Dundee has defined a network of roads to enhance connectivity between and through developments. However, these neighborhood connections do not provide adequate city-level and regional travel routes that can address the future mobility needs of the area in a way that balances vehicular needs with pedestrian and bicycle needs. This balance is best accomplished through a dense network of smaller roads. The fewer viable travel paths, the larger those paths will need to be, and the less appropriate they will become to bicyclists or pedestrians. Agriculture/Grove s East of the Ridge Scenic Highway, the citrus groves and cattle ranches are accessed by informal grove roads that were generally located along the mile section lines. Over time, many of these roads have been formalized and paved to accommodate residential growth. Ultimately, this pattern of roads is not enough to effectively accommodate the amount of future residential growth in this area. 4.1

49 Swann Bannon Island Island Little Hamilton 544 Marion Hamilton EAST-WEST CONNECTIONS Kokomo Hatchineha - - CR CR Daisy 27 Crystal Trask H.L Smith Jennings Watkins Parton Ranch Rd. Dundee -SR 542 Annie 17 Waverly - - SR SR Lincoln Lincoln Avenue Camp Endeavor Endeavor Blvd. Water Tank Tank Almburg Stalnaker Tindel Camp Camp Canal Ridge Scenic Hwy. Steward Detour Rd. Existing Network Legend s East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary NOTE: The intent of the map is not to be exhaustive. It is show examples. SUBURBAN SUBURBAN SUBDIVISIONS Weiburg HISTORIC TOWN NETWORK GROVE ROADS Mabel Loop Pierce Timberlane 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles 4.2

50 Existing Traffic Volumes Both the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Polk County keep a record of traffic volumes on many major roadways in the area. FDOT performs counts on all state roadways annually which are published generally near the middle of the subsequent year. These are detailed counts that include k (peak hour to daily volume ratio), D (directional ratio), and T (truck percentage) factors for each count location. Most of their counts are the average count over three days. Some of their count stations count continuously throughout the year. Polk County generally performs their counts on an annual basis and provides an annual database of factored and new traffic counts for use in concurrency analysis. Table 1 summarizes all available count information on the roadways within the study area. This table also summarizes service volumes for each Level of Service (LOS) and the existing Level of Service on these roadways. All of the roadways within the study area currently operate within their adopted Level of Service. Vesting Impact To meet state requirements for tracking transportation concurrency, Polk County keeps an accounting of all significant traffic that is added to the roadways from developments that have completed their Level 2 site plan review. The vested traffic included in the current database does not significantly impact any of the facilities listed in this database at this time. However, as shown on the Pending Development map, there are also a significant number of projects that are currently under consideration in the area and many of them are not included in this database. Some projects do not access a county road and, therefore, do not need a County issued driveway permit. These projects are not reviewed or accounted for by the database at all. Other projects have not reached Level 2 Site Plan Review or do not need a driveway permit at this time and, therefore, have not submitted traffic studies to Polk County. The inclusion of these projects will significantly degrade SR 17 (Scenic Highway) and Dundee. Table 1 - Summary of Existing way Segment Level of Service East Polk County way Segment From - To Link E+C # of Lanes way Classification LOS std. Daily Volume K-factor* D-factor Peak-Svc. Std. PM Peak-Hour Total LOS NB/EB SB/WB Highway Multi-Modal Current Count Source Count Date US 27 SR SR D Principal Arterial C 30, ,720 1, C SIS B FDOT 2006 SR SR D Principal Arterial C 32, ,720 1, C SIS B FDOT 2006 SR Towerview Blvd D Principal Arterial C 39, ,720 2,302 1,119 C SIS B FDOT 2006 Towerview Blvd. - SR D Principal Arterial C 33, ,720 1, C SIS B FDOT 2006 SR 17 (Ridge Scenic Hwy.) SR Main Center St U Urban Collector D 8, D SIS D FDOT 2006 Main Center St. - Waverly Rd U Urban Collector D 9, D SIS D FDOT 2006 Waverly US 27 - SR U Urban Collector D 4, D SIS C Polk TPO 2007 Dundee US 27 - SR U Urban Collector D 12, D SIS D Polk TPO 2007 CR 542 ( Hatchineha Rd.) SR 17 - Hatchineha Rd U Urban Collector C 5, C SIS C Polk TPO 2007 CR 17A (Chalet Suzanne Rd.) SR 17 - US U Urban Collector D 11, D SIS D Polk TPO 2007 Canal Ave./Watkins Rd. Mabel Loop Rd. - CR U Urban Collector D 2, D SIS C Polk TPO 2007 Mabel Loop Rd. CR 17A - Canal Ave U Urban Collector D 1, D SIS C Polk TPO 2007 Canal Ave. - SR 17 (Ridge Scenic Hwy.) U Urban Collector D 3, D SIS C Polk TPO 2007 H.L. Smith Rd. Mabel Loop Rd. - CR U Urban Collector D 1, D SIS C Polk TPO 2007 Swann Rd. SR 17 - H.L. Smith Rd U Urban Collector D 2, D SIS C Polk TPO 2007 Eight St./Detour Rd. Swann Rd. - CR 542 ( Hatchineha Rd.) U Urban Collector D 2, D SIS C Polk TPO 2007 Detour Rd. CR CR U Urban Collector D 1, D SIS C Polk TPO 2007 Central Ave. US 27 - SR 17 (Ridge Scenic Hwy.) U Urban Collector D 11, D SIS D Polk TPO 2007 Timberlane Rd. CR 17A - Canal Ave U Urban Collector D 6, D SIS C Polk TPO 2007 Source: FDOT; Polk TPO way Network Database ; Glatting Jackson Kercher Anglin, Inc. 4.3

51 (8,950) (1,700) Detour Rd. Detour Rd. (1,700) (30,000) (12,800) (32,000) Mabel Mabel Loop Loop (1,500) (39,500) Existing Traffic Volumes & LOS Legend Hamilton Little Hamilton Annie Marion Kokomo (5,400) Hatchineha - - CR CR (5,400) Daisy Ruby 27 Crystal Dundee -SR -SR Trask H.L Smith (1,600) Jennings Watkins (2,100) Swann (2,100) (###) LOS A LOS B LOS C LOS D LOS E LOS F Existing ADT Pending Developments s Camp Endeavor Blvd. (3,100) East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Waverly - SR 540 (4,200) 17 Stalnaker Tindel Camp Camp (2,100) Canal (2,100) 27 Mabel Pierce Timberlane Ridge Scenic Hwy. (9,150) (6,000) 640 Acres 160 Ac. 27 Chalet Suzanne Suzanne Rd. Rd. 40 Ac. (11,000) 0 1/2 1 Miles 4.4

52 2030 Long Range Cost Feasible Traffic Model As part of its long range planning efforts, the Polk Transportation Planning Organization has generated a roadway network projection for the entire County for 2030 using the Florida State Urban Transportation Model Structure (FSUTMS). This network includes future development projections and an estimate of the roadways that could be funded by that time frame. This network has very few roadways in this area and even fewer centroids (the concentrations of population or employment that load onto the roadway network in the model). Table 2 summarizes the roadways included in the model, the roadway types coded into the model, and their projected volume and Level of Service. The Polk County 2030 Long Rang Cost Feasible Model map shows the projected daily volume and volume-tocapacity (v/c) ratio calculated by the model. Even with the conservative socioeconomic projections, several roadways are projected to show a failing Level of Service including sections of US 27, SR 17, and Dundee. SR 17 has been classified as a constrained facility in the TPO s adopted 2030 Transportation Improvement Plan (TRIP), and therefore, cannot be widened. Development pressures in the area have been far greater since this model was generated than ever before. Within the East Polk County Selected Area Study, the model anticipates an increase of around 4,900 dwelling units by However, at this writing, site plans have been submitted to the County and other municipalities that would add over 6,300 dwelling units, and land is available for development that could accommodate another 15,000 dwelling units. Significant model revisions to the roadway network and socioeconomic data will be needed to adequately project the future needs in the area. The TPO evaluates and modifies its population projections every five years and this model is intended to serve the entire County. Therefore, it is not as thoroughly refined in this area. They have currently funded a study to evaluate future roadway needs throughout the Ridge. Part of this effort will include needed updates to the computer models that help determine future roadway needs. These 6,300 units would generate around 60,000 new trips in the area. This is equivalent to the roadway capacity for: one 4-lane freeway, two 4-lane arterial roads, and six 2-lane collector roads. Table 2 - Polk County Long Rang Cost Feasible 2030 Model Results way Segment From - To RND Segment # # Lanes Area way Type C D E Daily Volume LOS v/c US 27 SR SR 540 5,105 6 Residential Class I divided arterial w/median 52,100 53,500 53,500 52,288 D SR Towerview Blvd. 5,104 6 Residential Class I divided arterial w/median 52,100 53,500 53,500 25,227 B SR 17 (Ridge Scenic Hwy.) SR Main Center St. 5,207 2 Residential Class I undivided arterial, no turn bays 10,480 12,400 13,040 12,617 E Main Center St. - Waverly Rd. 5,206 2 Residential Class I undivided arterial, no turn bays 10,480 12,400 13,040 10,913 D Waverly Rd. US 27 - SR 17 4,174 2 Residential Class I undivided arterial w/ turn bays 13,100 15,500 16,300 9,654 C Dundee Rd. US 27 - SR 17 8,103 2 Residential Class I undivided arterial w/ turn bays 13,100 15,500 16,300 17,624 F CR 542 ( Hatchineha Rd.) SR 17 - Hatchineha Rd. 4,042 4 Residential Other local divided roadway 10,300 20,200 24,000 14,851 D CR 17A (Chalet Suzanne Rd.) SR 17 - US 27 4,102 4 Residential Major local undivided roadway w/ turn bays 27,835 27,835 29,355 14,483 C Source: Polk County TPO Long Range Cost Feasible FSUTMS Model; Glatting Jackson Kercher Anglin, Inc. 4.5

53 LRCF Model Legend Kokomo Volume/ Capacity Ratio < Hatchineha - CR Dundee -SR 542 > Waverly - - SR SR Chalet Suzanne Suzanne Rd. Rd

54 Future/Planned Network In response to the pending residential growth in the area, there are a number of initiatives and actions underway that will begin to transform the area s transportation network. As was mentioned previously, the County has recently initiated a Study to determine the future roadway network needs throughout the Ridge. Other planning efforts include: The Haines City Vision Plan Developed in 2007 and currently in the approval process, the Haines City Vision Plan outlines the land use and pattern of growth for the Haines City Utility Study Area that includes the area south from Haines City to Water Tank. This plan establishes a framework of future roads that provide for east-west and north-south connectivity. Several key north-south roads should be extended into the study area including Powerline and Bice Grove. The Town of Dundee Traffic & Circulation Plan The Town of Dundee has already established a number of important area-wide connections that must be maintained as development occurs including an important east-west connection north of Annie that would provide alternative access from SR 17 to Lincoln and US 27. Dundee has worked with the County to create a Local Collector Plan that is included in the TPO s 2030 TRIP. Proposed & Approved Development There are many residential subdivisions in the planning and approval stages within and around the Town of Dundee. Collectively they have the potential to add additional street network and accommodate important areawide connections. It will be important to understand the cumulative effect of this pending development in order to properly plan a comprehensive transportation network for the study area, as part of the visioning effort. 4.7 Aerial Date: March 2006

55 Swann Bannon Island Island Hamilton Little Hamilton 544 Marion Kokomo Water Tank Tank Hatchineha - - CR CR Daisy 27 Crystal Trask H.L Smith Jennings Watkins Parton Ranch Rd. Dundee -SR 542 Annie 17 Waverly - - SR SR Lincoln Lincoln Avenue Camp Endeavor Endeavor Blvd. Almburg Stalnaker Tindel Camp Camp Canal Ridge Scenic Hwy. Steward Powerline Rd. Detour Rd. Future/Planned Network Legend Bice Grove Tyner Rd. Hughes Rd. Rd. Major s Minor Streets Proposed Street-Haines City Vision Plan Proposed Street- Town of Dundee Traffic & Circulation Plan Weiburg Proposed Street Networks- Planned Developments s East Polk Selected Area Study Boundary Mabel Loop Pierce Timberlane 640 Acres 160 Ac. 40 Ac. Ruby Mabel 0 1/2 1 Miles 4.8

56

57 5.0 Guiding Principles

58 Assessment Summary & Key Conclusions 1. Suburbanization of Agricultural Land: This approved development has incrementally limited the opportunity for new road connections. There is no clear plan for the ultimate buildout development of these agricultural lands to include important residential and community building amenities such as parks, schools/ institutional uses, commercial services, or higher intensity residential. The lack of planned supporting commercial/ service uses in this new development, and the lack of additional road network will place increasing burden on existing roads, particularly US 27, SR 17 and the few existing east-west connections. 2. Remaining Development Opportunities: To support regional goals for concentrating development, need to target remaining undeveloped areas as potential new villages or centers that can accommodate a range of residential types and densities, and a mix of commercial uses. Opportunity exists for mixed-use, higher intensity centers along the US 27 corridor between Hamilton and Dundee. There is opportunity for infill development in the historic town centers of Hamilton, Dundee and Waverly. 3. Transportation Network: Need to plan for and protect alignments/rightof-way for additional roadway connections. This area was developed on a sparse rural pattern of agricultural grove roads; as continued suburbanization occurs there will be an increasing need for additional area-wide connections east-west and north-south. Without these new connections, the existing road network will face increasing pressure for widening, threatening the scenic character of the area. 4. Environment & Scenic Character: A portion of the Ridge Scenic Highway (SR 17) runs through the study area connecting the historic communities of Hamilton and Dundee. This scenic corridor introduces travelers to the historic communities and rural agriculture of Central Florida. Need to establish appropriate land use and transportation actions to protect the scenic viewsheds and road character. The eastern portion of the study area between Marion and Pierce includes a range of valuable habitats native to the Wales Ridge. Opportunity exists to protect these areas through conservation or appropriate lower density development standards. A large portion of the land around the US 27 corridor, west of Annie, is within the floodplain and includes extensive wetlands. This area is difficult for development and limits connectivity to US

59 Guiding Principles WAVERLY REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT Ensure Orderly Provision of Public Services & Facilities Direct Urban Growth with a Redevelopment Focus Focus Remaining Development Opportunities into Mixed-Use, Walkable Villages Establish a Framework of Streets to Support Future Development Protect Valuable Environmental Habitat & Scenic Views Ensure the orderly provision of public services and facilities to support new development and redevelopment, including schools, parks, opens space, water and sewer utilities, and drainage systems. Direct vibrant, urban growth to the existing cities with a redevelopment focus for the town of Waverly. While much of the developing agricultural land has already been planned or approved, there remains several opportunities to proactively plan new residential villages. These new villages can build off of the historic precedent of Hamilton and Dundee and include a mix of use and housing type, and walkable access to parks, schools and services. It is critical to establish important road connections and corridors before development occurs in order to provide a transportation network that can accommodate future development. A network of roads will distribute traffic more efficiently and minimize the need for larger multilane roadways that are out of character with the area and pedestrian un-friendly. The area s natural and scenic resources are one of its most valuable assets. The rolling topography of the Wales Ridge and its associated habitat help define the character of the area. While much of this landscape has been taken over by citrus groves and, now more recently, suburban homes, there still remains important natural habitat and scenic viewsheds that should be protected through conservation and/or design regulations. 5.2