Commission approves Blackidge South/Helena roadway improvements, requires traffic studies and county coordination

The Hoover City Planning Commission approved an application for public roadway and intersection improvements related to Signature Homes' Blackidge South development and Helena-sector access that will intersect Blackidge Parkway within Hoover City limits.

Planning staff presented contingencies that require Signature Homes to undertake full traffic-impact studies and signal-warrant analyses when specified triggers occur — completion of Blackidge Parkway segments, a change to gate access at a private sector of Blackidge, or additional commercial development tying to Blackidge Parkway — and to coordinate fully with Shelby County on any signal installation. Staff said if a signal is warranted and the county approves it, Signature Homes would be responsible for the cost of materials and installation and must satisfy Shelby County Highway Department requirements.

Jonathan Belchure of Signature Homes said a $584,000 bond is on file with Shelby County for the intersection. He told the commission that Shelby County had informed the developer that the county may not permit signal installation until the development is completed and that county acceptance will govern whether and when the signal is activated; the city would maintain the signal after construction and acceptance. Commissioners sought clarification about whether the city was requiring additional studies beyond the county’s; staff said they were not seeking a separate requirement but that contingencies could trigger additional submissions in coordination with the county.

The commission approved the application with the staff comments and contingencies by voice vote.

What happens next: Signature Homes must provide any additional traffic studies triggered by the listed conditions and coordinate with Shelby County on warrants, timing and installation; if a signal is warranted and approved by the county, Signature Homes is responsible for materials and installation costs and the city will assume maintenance after acceptance.