Commission approves rezoning for Heritage Ranch Baptist Church site, with staff noting TxDOT access review ahead

The Mansfield Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved a planned-development rezoning for a 6.592-acre tract at the northwest corner of Heritage Parkway (FM 917) and Klein Tools Boulevard to accommodate a 7,500-square-foot place of worship and ancillary commercial uses.

Staff described the PD as creating two regulatory zones: a site-plan-controlled area for the church (the portion where the sanctuary and parking will be built) and a C2-controlled area for future commercial development. The site plan provided for the first phase shows a 7,500-sq-ft building with 144 seats in the sanctuary and 49 parking spaces (36 required by code), a children's play area and a 2,500-sq-ft outdoor pavilion. Architect Robert Durham and Pastor Bruce Edwards described the congregation's need to move from a shopping-center location into a dedicated facility with fellowship space and youth amenities.

Commissioners asked detailed questions about pavilion use, potential outdoor events and site access. Staff and the applicant acknowledged access from FM 917 is constrained by the deceleration lane and proximity to Klein Tools Boulevard; Artie Weeden Rodriguez said TxDOT review of FM 917 access will be required during platting and civil design. Commissioner Patrick Moses moved to approve the PD and the commission carried the motion unanimously.

Staff said the PD preserves flexibility for future development on the northern portion of the tract but requires shared-access easements and appropriate fire-lane and hydrant placement before building permits are issued.