Perdido Key Master Plan presented and debated at Planning Board

For nearly two decades, Escambia County and Perdido Key residents have argued over a master plan for development on the barrier island.

Some issues still remain and strong opinions, too, about the future of Perdido Key. Two lane vs. Four lane? Low density vs. High density? (Read Finding Lost Key for background.)

After much discussion, the planning board unanimously recommended the Escambia Board of County Commissioners approve the master plan and extend the contract of urban developer DPZ for another three years.

Most Perdido Key residents spoke in favor of the plan that keeps the beach highway two lanes, limits development to protect the environment and expands public access to the Gulf of Mexico beach.

Perdido Key Association President Charles Krupnick said he worried about “uncontrolled growth” like he sees at Alabama’s Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, if the master plan failed. He liked improved parking and attractive and connected mixed-use development for the island.

He said, “We have not passed the point of no return.”

Marsha Young, a long-time resident, pointed out a survey of Perdido Key residents found that 83.7 percent wanted to preserve the Key and 63.5 percent supported low density.

“You can see owners at Perdido Key are very interested in the future,” Young said. “This plan preserves the island. This is a good plan with sites for town centers. If we don’t approve it, I’m afraid we will head in the wrong direction.”

Kathy Justice, a business owner representing the Perdido Key Chamber also supported the plan. “We’re in strong support of this being adopted,” she said. “DPZ captured the majority interest of the stakeholders in this area.”

Planning board staff said the new master plan is fluid and not so solid that it can’t be modified in the future.