Sunrise Project Moves Forward

BROOKSVILLE - With 4,200 homes proposed, the Sunrise residential development proposed for the eastside would be the largest subdivision to ever hit Hernando County.

On Wednesday, the mega-development moved another step closer to reality.

County commissioners voted unanimously to rezone 1,385 acres within the Interstate 75 and State Road 50 planned development district, creating a master plan for the Sunrise development.

As currently envisioned, Sunrise would have up to 4,200 single-family homes, 600 multi-family units, 75 motel units, at least 325,000 square feet of retail commercial, 50,000 square feet of office space and 40,000 square feet of mini warehouses.

The developer may also include 18 golf holes, a 5,000-square-foot clubhouse, an amenities center and other facilities.

Because of the project's size, Sunrise Land Partnership had to submit an application for a development of regional impact in 2005.

In 2007, the Withlacoochee Regional Planning Council approved and recommended a regional report to the county with the condition that a transportation analysis be finalized before Sunrise is issued a development order.

In response, Sunrise prepared a plan for the I-75 and S.R. 50 planned development district to show the transportation network and how it would coincide with the county's comprehensive plan.

The board approved the rezoning with no debate. There was no citizen comment.