LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Urban County Planning Commission will consider whether to move forward with Ball Homes' proposal for a 67-unit townhome development at 451 Chilesburg Road, a project that staff members say needs additional refinement to comply with the city's comprehensive plan.

The March 26 hearing marks a recommitment to the "Shuck & Tucker" development plan, which both the planning staff and the Zoning Committee recommended be postponed at the same public hearing, citing concerns about how the proposal addresses community design elements and connectivity standards outlined in the city's Imagine Lexington 2045 Comprehensive Plan.

The 12.35-acre property would be rezoned from Agricultural-Rural to Expansion Area Residential zoning, enabling Ball Homes to construct 57 townhomes north of a creek running through the site, with an additional 10 units to the south. Access to northern units would be via Tuckers Crossing Way or Andover Creek Lane, while southern units would connect directly to Chilesburg Road. The overall residential density would reach approximately 5.4 dwelling units per net acre.

Planning staff identified several areas where the applicant's proposal falls short of city standards. Concerns focus on the lack of multi-modal transportation options, pedestrian-friendly design and connectivity to nearby greenways and parks. The staff specifically cited gaps in how the development addresses goals related to complete streets, traffic calming, sidewalk improvements and accessible transportation options.

The recommendation for postponement allows Ball Homes to submit revised plans addressing design policies and neighborhood connectivity standards. The Planning Commission is responsible for reviewing subdivision plats and development plans, and making recommendations to the city council on zone change requests.

The Chilesburg area has experienced significant development in recent years. Ball Homes has previously developed multiple neighborhoods in Chilesburg, which features tree-lined boulevards, open spaces, pocket parks and walking trails. The master-planned community has evolved into a major residential area along the east end near Hamburg Place and Interstate 75 access.

The full public hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber on the second floor of the LFUCG Government Center, 200 East Main Street.