Over the past several months, Planning Commission staff has engaged in several planning efforts involving some high profile projects to encourage sustainable growth and increase economic development in Hillsborough County.

Infill Workshops

The Planning Commission scheduled a series of workshops with those involved in construction, development and development review, as well as citizens, to examine current regulations relating to infill development.  The first workshop, held on August 26, identified the issues stakeholders have in implementing infill.  The Planning Commission will to hold three to four more half-day facilitated workshops.  We hope to identify how local jurisdictions can modify current land development codes to encourage infill.

I-4 Corridor Plan

In early 2008, the Board of County Commissioners directed an evaluation of economic development potential along the I-4 corridor be undertaken. The Planning Commission is working together with Planning and Growth Management (PGM) staff on an I-4 Corridor Study.  Local municipalities, various agencies, business interests, and citizens who live along the I-4 corridor, are participating in the study.  We expect results from the study to be presented to the BOCC in early 2009.

Revision to Community Plan Comprehensive Plan Amendment Process

At the request of the BOCC, the Planning Commission is working with citizens and developers to identify possible changes in how Community Plans will be amended.  In August, the first workshop identified issues stakeholders have with the current plan amendment process as it relates to community plans.  Future workshops will detail how the plan amendment process can better meet the needs of communities and developers.  Recommended changes will be presented in early 2009.

South Side Community Plan and Carrollwood Community Plan

The planning process is nearing the halfway point for the South Side Commuity plan and Carrollwood Community Plan.  Hundreds of citizens have participated staff is working with community planning advisory groups to work on the details of the plans.   Various individuals and interest groups are working together over a 12-18 month period to determine how to guide future growth in their communities. 

Comprehensive Plan Updates

A major accomplishment was the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan for Unincorporated Hillsborough County.  The Plan guides growth in Hillsborough County to the year 2025.  The City of Tampa Comprehensive Plan update will be adopted in January.  The cities of Temple Terrace and Plant City should also see adoption in mid to late 2009, ending 4 years of hard work by the citizens, private sector, jurisdictions, Planning Commissioners, and staff. 

Despite nationl and local economic downturns, planning never stops, as evidenced by a relatively small drop in plan amendments.  Planning is a continuous process that is essential during the downturn and return in our economy. 

Robert B. Hunter, FAICP

Executive Director