If approved, the Crossings would be one of several developments generating traffic for the two-lane highway.
By JAMES THORNER
Published June 23, 2004
WESLEY CHAPEL - The Wesley Chapel suburbs could soon harbor another housing development along State Road 54.
Kimball Hill Homes Florida Inc. has proposed a project called the Crossings. A map shows 461 homes on 192 acres south of the New River neighborhood.
The property is sandwiched between Schickedanz Brothers' proposed Wyndfields development to the west and the Williams New River community to the east.
Kimball Hill Homes has sold homes in several Pasco neighborhoods. They include Lake Jovita on State Road 52, Lake Bernadette near Zephyrhills and the Lakes of Northwood in Wesley Chapel. Westchase and FishHawk Ranch are among the Hillsborough County developments with Kimball houses.
The Crossings would feature 310 single-family homes and 151 two-story town homes and single-story villas. About 54 of the 192 acres are wetlands. The rest is mostly pasture.
Kimball's project is one piece of what will be a congested picture along SR 54.
According the Kimball's rezoning application, the Crossings, once complete, would generate 4,062 car trips daily. Most of that traffic would spill onto SR 54. The highway is two lanes, but long-range plans show at least four.
Kimball officials couldn't be reached for comment Tuesday. The company plans to buy the SR 54 land from the Houck Corp, based in Pinellas County.
- James Thorner covers growth and development in Pasco County. He can be reached at 813 909-4613 or toll-free 1-800-333-7505, ext. 4613. His e-mail address is thorner@sptimes.com
