Commission approves Kennedy Crossing PD amendment over resident objections, 4–3

The Glynn County Board of Commissioners narrowly approved a plan development amendment (ZM-25-38) to allow up to 450 residential units in a development now called Kennedy Crossing (formerly Palmetto Lakes), voting 4–3.

Planning and Zoning Director Stephanie Leaf told the board the amendment changes the approved master plan to add 42 lots (from 408 to 450), relocate the amenity area, rename stormwater areas as pond common areas and upgrade an emergency-only Highway 17 connection to a full 60-foot public right-of-way. Leaf said density remains 10 dwelling units per net acre and the Planning Commission recommended approval unanimously.

Several nearby residents spoke in opposition or with concerns, citing traffic capacity on two-lane Harry Driggers Boulevard, school-related congestion (CB Greer and Neasewood), safety after a recent fatal crash on the same corridor, and confusion about the address used in notices. Residents asked for clearer infrastructure planning; agent Wesley Franks said a traffic study had been completed and preliminary designs were ready to add left and right turn lanes on Harry Driggers.

Commissioners debated the size of the amenity area, tree and pond impacts on drainage and the adequacy of infrastructure. The board ultimately approved the PD amendment on a 4–3 vote; the chair recorded the tally as four in favor and three opposed.