Manatee County’s planning commission has unanimously backed Lennar’s Lone Valley plan for up to 2,047 homes, citing major infrastructure commitments and wetland preservation. The proposal now heads to the county commission for final review, according to the original source.
A major residential proposal from Lennar is moving forward in Manatee County after the county’s planning commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the Lone Valley project. The proposal covers 685 acres and includes a rezoning and general development plan that would allow up to 2,047 single-family homes along with up to 15,000 square feet of public use space that could potentially host a future fire station. The information first appeared in an AI generated meeting recap provided by the original source.
Project representatives explained that the property already carries a UF-3 land use designation, which is intended for urban fringe residential development. According to the development team, the plan meets the county’s comprehensive policies by combining new housing capacity with environmental protections. The proposal includes preserving 99 percent of the wetlands on the site, expanding wetland buffers beyond the minimum county requirements, and creating greenbelt corridors that link open space throughout the project. These design choices were highlighted as evidence that the development could balance growth with natural resource protection.
Infrastructure planning played a significant role in the commission’s decision. Lennar’s attorney described how the company has already contributed to utilities and roadway networks in adjoining Prosperity communities. The Lone Valley project would extend those efforts. A key focus was the planned improvement of Buckeye Road. The developer has completed the design for its future four lane configuration and intends to build the first lanes while recouping costs through impact fee credits tied to new permits. Commissioners noted that these private investments could jump start infrastructure projects that are not currently funded in the county’s Capital Improvement Plan.
County staff recommended approval and stated that potable water and sewer capacity are available. Staff also confirmed that the proposal complies with the county’s land development regulations. Additional technical review will occur at the preliminary and final site plan stages. At those stages, the developer will be required to satisfy mitigation standards, stormwater rules, and other regulatory criteria.
Public comment reflected both support and caution. Residents and officials who favored the project pointed to the potential for improved fire and emergency medical service coverage. Parish Fire District Chief Stacy Bailey supported the proposed dedication of a fire station site and described it as an effective step toward addressing existing service gaps. Others urged Lennar and the county to incorporate affordable or workforce housing options so that essential workers can remain in the community. Commissioners encouraged continued exploration of those possibilities but did not add any affordability conditions.
The 5 to 0 planning commission vote sends the Lone Valley proposal to the Manatee County Commission for final review. Further permitting and site plan approvals will be required before any construction can begin.