Concerned Crestview residents voice opposition to housing development

CRESTVIEW, Fla. ( WKRG ) — Crestview residents are expressing significant concerns regarding a proposed housing development that aims to rezone a nearly 500-acre property on Possum Ridge Road.

The plan seeks to change the Future Land Use Map from Rural Residential and Agricultural to Low Density Residential, which would allow for the construction of approximately 691 single-family homes.

The development aims to address the growing demand for housing in the region. As the population increases, property owner Christopher Ryles believes that more residential units are necessary to accommodate new families and ensure there is enough housing stock for future growth.

However, this proposal has sparked a heated debate within the community, with many residents fearing it could change the character of their neighborhood.

Many have chosen this area specifically for its relative peace, away from the hustle and bustle of urban living. For almost four years, Nicholas Smith has been one of those residents who appreciates the environment that Crestview currently offers.

“One of the reasons that I chose Crestview is to have quiet space and time, especially after a long day of hard work,” Smith said.

With the proposal to build hundreds of new homes, residents worry their quiet community could soon be replaced by a suburban landscape with increased noise and activity. Residents fear that their daily commutes will become longer and more complicated.

Currently, many of the roads in the area have two lanes, which could quickly become inadequate for the influx of new vehicles from the proposed homes.

“It’s not suitable for the residents that live here,” Smith said.

Proponents of the development believe additional housing will help prevent overcrowding in other neighborhoods and provide new homes for people relocating to the region. The proposal also aligns with broader efforts to encourage orderly development and prevent urban sprawl, as the site is located near existing residential areas.

However, the potential strain on public services is also being discussed.

There are only two fire stations and one hospital serving the area, and some residents worry that this may not be enough to support the increased population. Also, Crestview has one high school, and some parents fear that an influx of new students could lead to overcrowding in classrooms.

The property includes 170.38 acres of wetlands and streams, which raised questions about stormwater management and the preservation of natural habitats. While the proposal states that the development would avoid building on environmentally sensitive areas, some residents worry about the long-term impact on the area’s natural beauty.

On the other side, advocates of the project highlight the potential benefits of new housing, including job creation and economic growth. Increased development could also lead to more business opportunities and services in the area, addressing some of the concerns raised by residents about the lack of local amenities.

Smith asked, “How about bringing some attractions to the area first before trying to build more homes?”

The rezoning proposal is still in its early stages and must go through several steps before it is approved. The Okaloosa County Planning Commission will review the proposal, and it will be subject to review by the Okaloosa County Board of Commissioners.

A public hearing is planned for Oct. 10, allowing residents to voice their opinions before any final decision is made.

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