Explained
After submitting an initial proposal for the first phase of development in early 2024, county staff identified several elements that did not comply with the county’s development standards.
Through a collaborative effort, county staff and the Momark Development team resolved all but one inconsistency, ultimately preserving the developer's vision of a “pedestrian-oriented” community with ample open and green space, according to Momark representative Steven Spears.
To address the final deviation from standards, commissioners approved a variance to the development code that “redefines” the term "alley" in order for homes to feature front entrances facing inward toward shared green spaces, rather than the road, and vehicle access to all homes via rear-facing roads.
The Schoolfield development’s design is intended to maximize space for lots and reduce costs, which contributes to the overall affordability of the homes, Spears told commissioners.
“One of the tools that can be used in order to overcome issues of affordability, attainability is density and creativity in land and lot development,” he said.
When starting the project, Spears noted that one of the initial challenges was analyzing local development patterns. He observed that the area primarily offered conventional single-family and multifamily housing, leaving a gap for the "missing middle"—those seeking housing options between the two extremes. Addressing this gap became a key focus for the team.
“We're actually proposing five different product types,” Spears said. “It’s like when you go fishing, the more hooks you have in the water, the more bites you get. We want to provide a wide range of housing types so that we can serve as many in our community that need served as it relates to housing.”
The site location lies along the SH 130 corridor, making it a prime location for future residents commuting to prominent employers, such as Samsung, Tesla and the airport, Spears said. Described as being similar to the Mueller development, the community will also feature space for a grocery store and restaurant, enhancing its walkability.
Looking ahead
At the earliest, construction could begin in the next 12 to 18 months, Spears told commissioners.
The first 209 acres to see dirt turn will encompass:
- 1,179 units of different home styles, which include single-family, townhomes and duplexes
- 85 acres of green space
- Safe walking routes to the local elementary school
