05/05/2025
🏡 Fort Meade Proposes 95-Home Subdivision North of 9th Street NE
The City of Fort Meade is considering a major development proposal that would transform over 23 acres of vacant land north of 9th Street NE into a new residential neighborhood. The proposal, which comes before the Planning and Zoning Board on May 5, 2025, and the City Commission in May and June, would create a 95-lot single-family subdivision just beyond the intersections of Polk Avenue North and Church Avenue North.
What’s Being Proposed?
The plan involves two key changes:
• Future Land Use Map Amendment: The property currently has no designated future land use. The proposal would change it to Single Family Residential, allowing standard residential development.
• Zoning Change: The zoning would shift from unassigned to Planned Unit Development (PUD), a flexible zoning designation that allows for large-scale residential projects under a unified development plan.
If approved, the site would be developed with 95 single-family homes, each on lots of at least 7,000 square feet. Homes would have a minimum floor area of 1,200 square feet, and buildings could be up to 40 feet tall. The plan includes 5.3 acres of open space (22% of the site) and interior roadways that would be maintained privately.
Location and Context
The proposed development is just north of existing residential neighborhoods, bounded by Polk County suburban lands on the north, west, and east. It is currently vacant and within city limits but adjacent to unincorporated areas. Properties to the south are already zoned for single-family use.
Key Impacts for Residents
1. Increased Density
Current zoning allows just 4 homes on this land. The proposal would increase that to 95—nearly 24 times the current density. This represents a significant shift in land use intensity for the area.
2. Traffic and Infrastructure
The subdivision would connect to 9th Street NE, increasing traffic on that corridor and surrounding roads. City staff indicate that the transportation network can handle the additional load, but traffic impact assessments and coordination with Polk County will be required as the project moves forward.
3. Utilities and Services
Water and sewer lines are already available on 9th Street NE and must be extended into the development. Based on projections, the subdivision would require:
• 34,200 gallons/day of water
• 25,650 gallons/day of sewer capacity
The city has indicated that capacity is available.
4. Schools and Services
The developer must secure a school concurrency letter from Polk County Public Schools to ensure adequate classroom space. Emergency and solid waste services are expected to be adequate, and the site is within close range of both fire and police stations.
5. Access and Rights-of-Way
Several historical rights-of-way (ROWs) cross the site and surrounding parcels. Some will be maintained to preserve access to neighboring properties, while others must be legally vacated before final subdivision approval. One key 60-foot-wide access point between proposed lots 44 and 45 must be preserved and marked for public access.
Next Steps
• Planning and Zoning Board Hearing: Monday, May 5, 2025 at 5:30 PM
• City Commission First Reading: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 6:00 PM
• City Commission Public Hearing and Final Vote: Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 6:00 PM
All meetings are open to the public and will be held in the Commission Chambers at 8 W Broadway Street, Fort Meade.
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Why It Matters
This proposal would reshape one of the last large undeveloped parcels within city limits. While it could bring needed housing and growth, residents may wish to voice comments or ask questions about infrastructure, traffic, school capacity, and long-term maintenance.
Citizens are encouraged to review the proposed plans, attend public meetings, and submit public comments to ensure their voices are heard as Fort Meade continues to plan for its future.
