Coral Springs officials are considering zoning changes to promote new development on the western edge of the city’s growing downtown area, aiming to reshape the future of local businesses and housing
Coral Springs, Florida – City officials in Coral Springs are proposing zoning changes aimed at shaping the future of development in the western part of the city’s new downtown area. Business owners and residents will have a chance to learn more about these proposed modifications during a public meeting scheduled for Thursday at 3 p.m. in the Everglades Room at City Hall, located at 9500 West Sample Road.
The focus of the proposed changes lies along key areas such as Sample Road, University Drive, and the region surrounding Broward Health Coral Springs. These areas have been identified as critical zones for potential growth and development, and the city is exploring ways to alter the zoning to foster a more dynamic and mixed-use environment. The city’s goal is to promote development that will not only enhance the downtown district but also create a vibrant space for both businesses and residents.
A recent meeting of the City Commission and the Community Redevelopment Agency featured a presentation by a consultant who shared early zoning scenarios for the area. These scenarios were designed to spark discussion about possible changes to the zoning regulations, especially along Sample Road from Coral Hills Drive to NW 99 Way. The proposed adjustments would affect both the north and south sides of Sample Road, with the south side extending to NW 33 Street and the north side abutting a single-family neighborhood.
James Hickey, a planner with Calvin, Giordano & Associates in Fort Lauderdale, spoke about the potential impacts these changes could have on property owners and the broader community. He emphasized that the zoning modifications would directly influence individual properties, leading to changes in land use and building regulations. “Through this, this will change someone’s actual zoning on their parcel and property,” Hickey said during the redevelopment agency meeting. “We want to make sure that they’re aware of what’s happening and what really the impact would be for them.”
As part of the zoning discussions, Hickey also pointed out the challenges that arise when developing areas close to existing residential neighborhoods. On the north side of Sample Road, there are currently commercial and multi-family developments, but behind them lies a single-family neighborhood. Hickey explained that the goal is to minimize the impact on these residential areas by providing adequate buffers between them and any new developments. “We’re looking at that to try to make sure that we can buffer as much as we can on the north side,” he said.
Under the current zoning regulations, the maximum height for buildings in the area is four stories. However, Hickey presented scenarios that include the potential for taller buildings, with up to eight stories allowed in some locations. These taller buildings could accommodate essential infrastructure, such as parking garages, which are needed to support increased development and density in the downtown district.
The south side of Sample Road is also under consideration for changes. Planners are exploring potential modifications to NW 33 Street, including traffic direction adjustments. Hickey mentioned that they are currently reviewing the possibility of converting the street into either a one-way or two-way traffic flow to better accommodate new development.
Hickey, who has extensive experience working on planning projects in Coral Springs, reflected on the city’s evolving vision for its downtown. Before joining the consulting team, he had played a significant role in guiding the planning for the “four corners” development at Sample Road and University Drive. “I look at this and I think about the vision that we saw 15 years ago at four corners,” Hickey said. “Now, when he comes into Coral Springs, he sees towers going up,” he added. “I’m like, wow, this really happened,” he said, noting the city’s progress in turning long-held visions into tangible projects. “If you envision it, and we can make the regulations work, it’s something that’s definitely implementable.”
The proposed zoning changes mark just the beginning of a months-long process that will include further public outreach and feedback from residents and business owners. Eventually, the City Commission will vote on the final proposals. If approved, the changes could lead to significant new development in the area, transforming the western edge of Coral Springs’ downtown into a bustling, mixed-use district.
These zoning adjustments are part of a broader effort to revitalize Coral Springs and foster a more vibrant urban environment. As the city moves forward with these plans, officials are hopeful that the proposed developments will not only enhance the city’s economy but also create a more attractive and functional space for both businesses and residents.
