At its January 7, 2025, meeting, the Alachua County Commission made significant decisions to improve residents' quality of life. The Commission voted to enhance tree preservation in new developments, incentivize the construction of mixed-use traditional neighborhoods and transit-oriented developments, and ban the parking of commercial trucks in certain areas.
Tree Preservation Code Changes
To protect the County's natural resources, the Commission directed staff to prepare amendments to the Unified Land Development Code to require the retention of all live oaks over 45 inches in diameter in new development projects with limited exceptions. Additionally, the Commission directed changes to align designated open space areas in new development to coincide with the best tree canopy and to allow some construction impacts closer to trees to incentivize more tree retention in new development. These changes underscore the Commission's commitment to preserving the County's tree canopy and promoting environmental sustainability. Developers must submit tree preservation plans as part of their development applications, ensuring these heritage trees are protected for future generations.
Encouraging Walkable, Mixed-Use Communities
Recognizing the importance of mixed-use community-oriented development, the Commission directed staff to prepare amendments to its Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) and Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) standards. These revisions will include changes to development standards that will make the development of mixed-use walkable developments more likely to occur. The goal is to create active, livable communities that promote social interaction and reduce automobile reliance.
Addressing Commercial Truck Parking Concerns
In response to growing concerns from residents about the impact of commercial trucks on residential neighborhoods, the Commission moved to ban the parking of commercial trucks in designated areas where this has become a nuisance. This decision will reduce noise pollution, improve road safety, and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of these neighborhoods. Staff will return at a future public hearing with specific standards for on-street parking and banning overnight parking by commercial trucks from designated areas.
The Alachua County Commission continues to work diligently to address the needs and concerns of its residents. These recent decisions are the latest examples of their dedication to cultivating a thriving and sustainable community.
For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or msexton@alachuacounty.us.
