Planning Commission Discusses Summerdance Changes on ICW Development

OBA Staff • July 25, 2024

New development planned in Gulf Shores along ICW

New development in Gulf Shores along ICW

Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – The City of Gulf Shores Planning Commission held their regular meeting this week to discuss future projects and zoning changes. The focus of the meeting pertained to a new development currently called "Summerdance" ( Developed by Coastal Resort Properties) which will be located along the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway in Gulf Shores.

Lee Jones, Director of Planning & Community Development for Gulf Shores, presented to the commission the overall site plan for the development. He provided the members and audience detailed information about the project's PUD (Planned Unit Development) rules. He also listed changes Summerdance was seeking from the City.

Mr. Jones stated that the developer wanted to reduce density but will request for a private marina, consisting of 46 boat slips. Only a 24 acre portion of the project is seeking the amendment.

Photo from Gulf Shores Planning Commission Presentation

Access to the section of development would come from Geno Road, which connects the property to Cotton Creek Drive. Mr. Jones stated that the roadway to be brought up to a standard prior to any development happening. He reminded the commission that this was for a zoning amendment request.

In review of the PUD modification request it was pointed out that staff members had spoken with area property owners. Mr. Jones stated that some were in favor of granting the application citing road improvements and increased property values. Others had taken a negative stance due to buffering the development by their existing homes and the need for upgrades to Geno Road.

Planning Director Jones pointed out that (3) three marina permits had been approved by the Army Corp of Engineers in 2006. He further stated that the City of Gulf Shores had worked with a developer in 2019 to reduce the overall density of the entire project from 9,100 units to 3,175 and to provide more open space.

Summerdance community development is currently zoned for high density. This segment is the easternmost section.

The City of Gulf Shores staff recommends approval of the density reduction and a 46 slip private marina. The Army Corp of Engineer approval is still required, and the final approval will be made by the Gulf Shores City Council.

Several local residents spoke about the project. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the amendment for the City Council review.

Interested parties can review the developers website HERE

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