More Changes Could Come to U.S. 19

Clearwater leaders are expected to approve plans that could change future development and other codes along parts of U.S. 19 at its public meeting Thursday.

While it is still undergoing some growing pains as crews work on changing a 2.7-mile section from a stoplight-filled, median-separated road into a limit-access highway, for months Clearwater officials asked for opinions in this survery that would shape future land use changes along the commercial corridor.

In an effort to entice development around the revamped corridor, Clearwater leaders are looking to approve a resolution that could usher in code and other changes to the area.

“This is a plan. It’s going to change because a lot of it is not within our control. But more importantly it’s not going to happen overnight,” said Mayor George N. Cretekos. “It’s going to take many years and take a partnership from the private sector to develop these clusters. It’s not going to be the city to do that.”

The study sought recommendations regarding land use, design, sustainability and economic development impacting property fronting U.S. 19 between Belleair and Curlew Road, near Dunedin, and the commercial corridor defined by Gulf to Bay Boulevard, Drew Street and North McMullen Booth Road.

The study divided those areas into five clusters for development, including the Countryside Activity Center, the Gulf to Bay Activity Center, the Sunset Point and Coachman District, the Belleair District and the “in between areas.” 

The final study includes recommendations on the mix of land uses, intensity of development, and the character of building, site, and landscape improvements. It also offered insight in improving vehicle, pedestrian and bike connections and promote more sustainable forms and patterns of development.

Focus groups including car dealers, retailers, realtors and neighborhood associations met to discuss the plan and offer ideas earlier in the year. 

Residents also offered thoughts on the U.S. 19 Mind Mixer website. The U.S. 19 Innovative Places website was developed for residents and business owners to share their ideas for future land use and development along the commercial corridor. The sites asked what uses resident would like to see along the road and how can the destinations along the road be improved.

“We don’t produce these plans and let them sit on the shelf," said Bill Horne, city manager, during the city council work session meeting. "The planning staff is all about making this happen. The fact that you support it will let us do what we have to do to stay committed to our course.”

Visit myus19plan.com for more info.

Related Coverage:

• Residents Share New Ideas for US 19
• Changes on US 19 Might Not Come Soon Enough