NASSAU FLORIDA EION - 30 All Voices. One Vision. VISION PLAN NASSAU COUNTY, FLORIDA DRAFT05,14: 2025 - 3 - 1 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05. 14.2025 TABLE OF CONTENTS ONE PLAN Vision 2050 Vision 2050 Outcomes Why Now NASSAU TODAY Historical Context 10 Demographic Snapshot 13 Key Challenges & Opportunities 15 ALL VOICES 23 Engagement Strategy 24 Engagement Process 25 Bicentennial Celebration 29 Engagement Results 34 Engagement by the Numbers 34 Our Opportunities 44 Engagement Themes 45 ONE VISION 47 One Vision 48 Projected Growth 50 Vision 2050 Growth Plan Strategy 53 Character Mapping and Context Areas 54 Character Areas 55 Nassau County's Character Areas 56 Why Use Growth Scenario Modeling? 66 Vision 2050 Growth Plan 70 Special Planning Areas 78 Joint Planning Areas 82 Roadway Elements 83 Environmental Measures 93 NASSAU TOMORROW 103 Authenticity 105 Balance 109 Connectivity 115 Governance 119 Housing 125 Livability 129 Opportunity 135 Resiliency 141 Implementation 147 DRAFT 05.14.2025 LIST OF TABLES TABLE 3.1 Engagement Theme by Building Block 46 TABLE 4.1 Historical Growth 51 TABLE 4.2 Population Projections 51 TABLE 4.5 Trend Scenario Building Block Matrix? 67 TABLE 4.6 Incremental Scenario Building Block Matrix? 68 TABLE 4.7 Think Big Scenario Building Block Matrix? 69 TABLE 4.8 Preferred Scenario Building Block Matrix? 70 TABLE 4.9 Rural Context Areas: Roadway Features 88 TABLE 4.10 Suburban Context Areas: Roadway Features 89 TABLE 4.11 Urban Context Areas: Roadway Features 90 LIST OF FIGURES FIGURE 3.1 Engagement Opportunities Map 33 FIGURE 4.1 Forecast Population (2024 2050) 51 FIGURE 4.2 Historical and Projected Employment Growth (2001 - 2050) 52 FIGURE 4.3 Opportunities and Constraints Mapping Layers 53 FIGURE 4.4 Growth Scenario 1 - Trend 67 FIGURE 4.5 Growth Scenario 2 Incremental 68 FIGURE 4.6 Growth Scenario 3 - Think Big 69 FIGURE 4.7 Preferred Growth Scenario 70 FIGURE 4.8 Vision 2050 Growth Plan Opportunities and Constraints Map 72 FIGURE 4.9 Vision 2050 Growth Plan Public Infrastructure Map 73 FIGURE 4.10 Vision 2050 Growth Plan Map 74 FIGURE 4.11 Growth Areas 75 FIGURE 4.12 William Burgess District Rendering 77 FIGURE 4.13 Sheriff's Office Redevelopment Rendering 77 FIGURE 4.14 Suburban Infill 78 FIGURE 4.15 Mobility Versus Access 83 FIGURE 4.16 Example of Roadway Configurations 85 FIGURE 4.17 Roadway Connections 90 FIGURE 4.18 Natural and Conservation Areas 96 FIGURE 4.19 TDR Sending and Receiving Zones 97 FIGURE 4.20 Example TDR Development 97 FIGURE 4.21 Floodway Design 100 FIGURE 4.22 Roadway Environmental and Safety Considerations 102 vi Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida RVA AET 0 ONE PLAN Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14. 2025 "AIIVoices. One Vision.' "isaplant that draws on the Countysstrengths; opportunities, and values to promote the long-term vitality and sustainability of our community for residents and visitors alike. It has been shaped by community engagement, data and analysis, and national trends to create a clear path forward. This plan will serve as a foundation for both long- and short-term planning, guiding policy decisions, and government actions for years to come. Vision 2050 VISION 2050 WILL: Building on past long-range planning efforts, including BOOST COMMUNITY PRIDE by Vision 2032, Vision 2050 seeks to identify what identifying and celebrating the unique residents want Nassau County to be in 2050. It reaffirms history and culture of Nassau County; and expands previous priorities to meet modern-day preserving historic landmarks and challenges, including preserving community character sites; and promoting arts, culture, and and addressing growth in a way that creates a financially traditions. and environmentally sustainable future. ENHANCE RESILIENCY by identifying The plan represents the County's first large-scale * opportunities to protect our rich supply visioning effort since 2007 and will guide updates to of natural resources and county assets, the Comprehensive Plan and other County policies, and developing a balanced approach to regulations, investments, and efforts. The plan and its growth management. implementation framework will ensure that decision- making is consistent with the community's vision. PLAN FOR ACCESSIBILITY AND Monitoring the plan should be wrapped into the MOBILITY throughout the County performance review standards and provide transparent by evaluating roadway safety and and current information on the status of County needs, envisioning future networks, initiatives. and enhancing multi-modal access for residents and visitors. The plan was broken into five overarching phases and was created over approximately 18 months, beginning in FOSTER COMMUNITY BUILDING by Fall 2023 and concluding in early 2025, as shown below. planning for growth that enhances quality of life and community character while supporting prosperity and economic advancement. FALL 2023 SPRING 2024 WINTER 2023 FALL 2024 SPRING 2025 SUMMER 2025 Setting Your Foundation: Creating Your Framework: Initiating Implementation: Analyze existing Establish the growth and Adopt the final plan conditions opportunities framework PHASE TWO PHASE FOUR PHASE ONE PHASE THREE PHASE FIVE FALL 2023 SUMMER 2024 FALL 2024 SPRING 2025 Building Your Vision: Drafting Your Plan: Engage the public to Prepare & review the draft identify community values plan Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 2 DRAFT 05. 14.2025 VISION PLAN FRAMEWORK BUILDING THE PLAN The Vision Plan is divided into five chapters. Thep planwas dmatpabypalatrngeiaing conditions, engaging the community, and evaluating trends to devise recommendations for Nassau's future. This effort ONE PLAN provided a clear understanding of the County's present conditions and future needs. Feedback from this process OUTLINES THE PURPOSE OF VISION 2050, EMPHASIZING THE NEED FOR AN helped shape the desired type and character of growth UPDATED VISION AND ITS ROLEIN and informed the development of the plan. GUIDING, FUTURE DECISIONMAKING. Existing Conditions A review of existing planning documents and an NASSAU TODAY analysis of existing demographics, community trends, PROVIDES A SUMMARY OF THE and regional factors were reviewed at the beginning COMMPIYMGAGACIR of the project. This information provided a baseline HIGHLIGHTINGIHE COUNTY'S understanding of Nassau's community today. The CURREN NTSTRENGTHS AND CHAL LENGES. existing conditions are provided in the first volume of the report, the Community Memorandum. A summary of the existing conditions is provided in Chapter 2, Nassau Today, of this plan. ALL VOICES ILLUSTRATES THE CIVIC ENGAGEMENT FACILITATED TO BUILD THE Community Engagement COMMUNITY'S VISION FOR Extensive from the community 3 participation helped TOMORROW. direct Vision 2050's recommendations and objectives. This engagement is summarized in Chapter 3, All Voices, of this plan and an in-depth review is provided as OUR VISION Appendix C. DETAILS THE PROPOSED GROWTH FRAMEWORK, INCLUDING POPULATION PROJECTIONS, GROWTH PATTERNS, AND Community Building Blocks OVERALL CHARACTERISTICS NECESSARY Key themes and values heard from the community were TO SUPPORT THE DESIRED COMMUNITY used to create the Community Building Blocks. These IDENTITY. building blocks are the vision for Nassau's future, and represent plan "goals." The eight building blocks are shown on page 7 and reviewed in more detail throughout NASSAU TOMORROW the plan. OFFERS THE COUNTY RECOMMENDATIONS TO REALIZE THE VISION. Growth Framework To guide growth, a preferred growth scenario was developed to shape the character and general type of development in the future. It will inform the Future Land Use Map and Element update in the Comprehensive Plan. The growth framework is supported by plan objectives and strategies. Implementation The growth framework is supported by plan objectives and strategies. Utilizing the eight building blocks as the foundation for Nassau'st future, objectives and outcomes with associated actions and strategies are outlined to help guide the Nassau of tomorrow. 3 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14 2025 NASSAU FLORIDA AUTHENTICITY BALANCE ON All Voices. One Vision. Building Blocks NASSAU CONNECTIMITY GOMERNAINCE FLORIDA - 00 CIOUSING IMABIIT7 OPPORTUNITY RESILIENCY DRAFT 05.14.2025 Vision 2050 Outcomes DATA & ANALYSIS Key data, analysis, and foundational community studies are essential for developing Vision 2050. The implementation action plan outlines crucial policies, regulations, investments, programs, and other measures COMMUNITY VISION PLAN necessary to realize the community's vision over the (VISION 2050) next 25 years and beyond. To ensure the plan remains effective and relevant, iti is crucial to take regular actions and provide updates, preventing it from being neglected or left unused. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN (2025 2050) Vision 2050 will lead to a revision of the County's Comprehensive Plan to ensure its goals, objectives, and policies align with the community's future vision. While the Comprehensive Plan has been updated to meet LONG-RANGE FINANCIAL PLANNING state requirements, the last major revision was in 2010 following Vision 2032. In 2023, the Florida Legislature amended the statute to require all comprehensive plans to reflect a minimum planning period of at least 20-YEAR CAPITAL PLANNING & ten years. The Nassau Comprehensive Plan in place is MAINTENANCE dated through 2030. A thorough update is necessary to comply with Florida Statute and align goals, objectives, and policies with the anticipated growth and shifting 5-YEAR REVENUE & EXPENDITURE community values. PROJECTIONS Adopting the 2050 Comprehensive Plan will ensure that Nassau's future goals, objectives, and policies reflect the key insights from the Vision 2050 process. This update will address critical challenges and opportunities, 5-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN proactively plan for the future, meet current residents' needs, and support the County's long-term vitality for future generations. 5-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN Near-term plans necessary to implement Vision 2050 include the 5-Year Strategic Plan and the Capital improvements Plan (CIP). The County's 5-Year Strategic Plan identifies target initiatives for the near-term, typically within the next five years. Through workshops ANNUAL STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION with the Board of County Commissioners, projects and needs are prioritized for funding. The CIP is updated annually and identifies fund allocations needed over the next five years to accomplish priority actions and needs. ANNUAL BUDGET The CIP includes more than just County allocations, it includes outside funding sources such as Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) funds or grants. In addition to the CIP, the annual budget is used to fund necessary programs, staffing needs, and other community priorities. 5 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Why Now Nassau County is a growing and thriving community in northeastern Florida. Since the founding of Nassau County in 1824, the ocean, rivers, rail, and timber have played a large role in how the County has been developed. Timber and the rail line led to the creation of towns such as Callahan, Hilliard, and Yulee. The Atlantic Ocean, timber mills, the shrimping industry, and tourism influenced growth on and around Amelia Island. The rivers not only added to the serene atmosphere of the County but have also supported the movement of goods throughout the County and around the country. View along the. St. Marys River circa 1870. The County's population grew exponentially at the turnof The St. Marys River has played a role in the the century. This created challenges to mobility, quality of life, and the provision of public services. Many of these transport of goods and people from inland to challenges are still relatable today. Understanding the the coastline for centuries. community context, previous planning initiatives, and growth characteristics is important for understanding the needs for the future. Population Growth. Nassau's population has grown by 30,000 residents over the last 13 years. It is projected that the County's population will continue to grow rapidly, withjust under 200,000residents calling Nassau home in 2050. The exponential increase in projected population isn't just a number, it brings real implications - and a need for continued long-range planning for such things as schools, public safety, water and wastewater, parks and recreation, and streets and mobility. External Factors. The growing appeal of northeast Florida has attracted new residents to Nassau, where there are great public schools, high quality of life, and Rapid growth and suburban expansion have efficient public safety services. Additionally, there are highlighted the need for improved planning to state preemptions that limit the local government's prevent the same patterns of development from ability to guide and constrain development. repeating in the future. Recent Development Trends. While historical patterns of development represent suburban and single-use developments, recent approvals for the East Nassau Community Planning Area (ENCPA), the William Burgess District (WBD) and the SR200/A1A Corridor Master Plan (also known. as Timber to Tides Design Overlay or T2TDO) signal a shift toward more fiscally and environmentally sustainable development. These plans emphasize enhancing quality of life and reflect the County's evolving approach to development. The districts accommodate new growth in mixed-used centers through higher densities and intensities of development, thereby allowing greater opportunity to protect the cherished rural character and natural areas in other parts of the County. New developments incorporate great "third spaces" for residents that provide places to relax or socially engage. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 6 DRAFT 05.14. .2025 Infrastructure Needs. While the County is actively planning for roadway improvements, many of the major thoroughfares do not have parallel corridors, which leads to congestion, especially in Yulee and Callahan. As the population has continued to grow, roadway maintenance and capacity needs are ever present. The recent adoption of the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan (PROSMP) and the Conservation Acquisition and Land Management Plan (CLAM) show the County's dedication to conserving the natural environment. The implementation of these plans will lead to thousands of acres of environmentally sensitive land conserved combined with better access to active and passive recreation opportunities. Continued growth of physical, social, and environmental infrastructure is The County maintains public dirt roads, such as critical to the County's future. Bismark Road, in the more rural areas of the County. Housing Availability. Housing affordability and the Area Median Income (AMI) remain significant concerns in the County. There is considerable variation in median householdi income acrossl Nassau, with figures exceeding $200,000 on Amelia Island and dropping below $50,000 in some areas west of I-95. Despite this income disparity, many housing policies focus on households earning up to 120% of AMI, over $90,000. Limited housing options exist for families earning less than 80% of AMI. While the County has policies to support the development of affordable housing and offers property owners the ability to construct accessory dwelling units on their property, there is still a general shortage of "missing middle" housing choices and options for those seeking to age in place. Nassau Post Pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic brought about fundamental changes in employment, The types of housing choice available for residents shopping, and quality of life. Workplace flexibility has has increased in the past decade, with more enabled people to choose homes in areas with more townhomes and apartments offerings available. amenities, better school districts, and lower crime rates without the burden of long commutes. The rise in online shopping has transformed the retail landscape, resulting in a decrease in large department stores and a shift of major retailers toward online platforms. This change has led to an increase in delivery vehicles on roads, a greater need for loading zones, and other roadway considerations. Many new commercial developments are now focusing on creating unique, in-person experiences that can't be replicated online, in contrast to traditional retail approaches. The COVID-19 Pandemic highlighted the importance of social infrastructure within a community. Parks and places that provide experiences offer residents the opportunity to engage and socialize. 7 Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 KEY THEMES FOR VISION 2050 Consistent themes from the various planning exercises that are critical to consider include: > CELEBRATING ARTS AND CULTURE. Nassau has a unique and storied history that needs to be acknowledged and celebrated. Access to arts and cultural events is enriching for a community, allows the community to celebrate its heritage, provides opportunities for community building, and supports economic vitality. > CONNECTING COMMUNITIES. Connecting communities means more than just roadway connections and enhancing transportation access throughout the County. Social, technological, and environmental connections should be at the forefront of planning. > ECONOMIC DIVERSITY AND OPPORTUNITY. Diversifying the tax base is crucial for the County's long-term financial health. Growth with target industries will attract high-paying jobs, and creating mixed-use developments around employment zones can help provide quality, attainable housing in areas where there are sufficient services. > FISCAL STEWARDSHIP. Good fiscal practices can be used to guide development in a manner that is feasible and will provide the greatest refurn on investment. While not all areas of the County should be developed as higher intensity, mixed-use developments, creating areas reflecting those development patterns can provide greater incentives to maintain working agricultural lands elsewhere, lands that may not draw as many financial resources. > HEALTH AND WELLNESS. Access to quality healthcare, personal services, healthy eating options, and a healthy built enyironment will improve the overall health and wellness of residents. With an aging population, and new residents moving to Nassau, providing quality health services will be critical for maintaining a high quality ofl life. > NATURAL ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND PRESERVATION. The protection of the County's critical natural resources is essential for the County's sustainability for future generations. Nassau's wetlands, waterbodies, and natural environment offer residents exceptional beauty and environmental benefits. > QUALITY OF LIFE. The term "quality of life" is an umbrella concept that is frequently discussed, encompassing a range off factors such as access to healthcare, housing options, environmental stewardship, recreational opportunities, economic stability, and public services. As the population continues to grow, the County can strive to maintain a high quality of life. > RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES. Recreational opportunities are important to Nassau's residents. The inclusion of trails, shaded play areas, splash pads, programming opportunities, sports leagues, and access to nature are important to residents and visitors. Recreation can provide economic and social benefits. > RURAL LAND PROTECTION. Rural heritage is paramount to residents of Western Nassau. There is a strong desire to maintain rural character generally west of 1-95. Creating a balance with development will be important for maintaining the feeling of rural character. > SUSTAINABLE, MANAGED GROWTH. The concept of sustainable or managed growth emerged as important in the Vision 2032 Plan and has remained critically important to residents. While Nassau cannot stop growth from coming, the Vision process can help guide where and how growth happens to create a future that enhances community character and reflects the building blocks. Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida 8 DRAFT05.14.2025 - NASSAU TODAY Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Nassau Today provides an overview of its history, people, and built environment. This analysis serves as a foundation for understanding the County's present condition and lays the groundwork for addressing its future needs. Historical Context Nassau County was home to the Timucua people until The Gullah Geechee people, descendants of West 1562, when the French arrived, followed by the Spanish Africans brought to the area during slavery, continue to and British. By 1821, Florida became a U.S. territory, and preserve their cultural heritage through land ownership Nassau County was established in 1824 after initially and customs like food, music, and religion. American being part of Duval County. Early on, the County was Beach was founded by Abraham Lewis and the Afro- rural with farming and large plantations, and over half of American Life Insurance Company in 1935 to provide the population in 1830 were enslaved Africans. African Americans with a beach community during the time of segregation. American Beach residents still Only one bridge connected Fernandina to the mainland foster a strong sense of community today. until 1948. The expansion of railroads spurred growth throughout the County, and the road system developed Special events are vital to community entertainment. in the 1920s with the advent of automobiles. US-17 Since 1963,thelsleof! Eight Flags Shrimp Festivalhasbeen became a major route in the 1930s, preceding the a social focal point. Other events, such as the Callahan construction of I-95 in the 1970s. Callahan and Hilliard Christmas Parade and Northeast Florida Fair, along with grew with the railroad's arrival, gaining incorporation in newer events like Dickens On Centre, continue to bring 1911 and 1947, respectively. Other settlements include people together. Nassau County's culture is a unique Bryceville (established in 1871), Crandall, Kings Ferry, blend of rural and coastal living, allowing residents to Lessie, and Evergreen. experience both the beach and agricultural activities. For most of the last 200 years, the County has been Before the Civil War, Nassau County was known for its known for its small-town life that showcases community plantations andi the port community of Fernandina, which spirit and local traditions. People enjoy fishing, boating, had the largest natural deep water port south of Virginia. and access to the outdoors, reflecting the community's David Yulee chose Fernandina as the eastern point of identity. his Florida Railroad, establishing Florida's first cross- state rail line. During the Civil War, Amelia Island was occupied by the Union army, while the interior supported Confederate forces. Post-war, the Freedmen's Bureau helped formerly enslaved people establish settlements like Franklintown, Lessie, and Evergreen. In the 1870s, Fernandina emerged as an early tourism destination in Florida, while Callahan and Hilliard developed into communities, benefiting from the County's pine resources through. sawmills andturpentine stills. The early 1900s were quieter, withindustryfocused on dairy, poultry, and the port's distribution of lumber, railroad ties, and turpentine. By 1940, two pulp mills opened in Fernandina, and residents enlisted in World Wars I and I. World War H brought military installations to the County. Post-war, the Hilliard Air Traffic Control Center opened, and the U.S. highway expansion increased traffic. The 2000s saw major growth in Yulee with new subdivisions and The Bosque Bello Cemetery on Amelia Island is shopping centers, necessitating new schools, roads, parks, and civic facilities to accommodate residents. estimated to be one of the oldest cemeteries in Nassau, dating back to 1798. Residents can still be buried in the cemetery today. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 10 DRAFT 05.14.2025 PAST PLANNING EFFORTS The County has laid a strong foundation for planning The Western Nassau Vision through previous efforts related to the long-term needs Book was adopted by the of County residents. Key findings and recommendations S Nassau County Board of County of those plans remain valid and are incorporated into liard Dyal Fiart's Roe Commissioners (BOCC) in 2019 R Itali the Vision 2050 Plan recommendations. Past plans Callaban to proactively for the future & plan considered for this plan are listed below. & wfora of western Nassau County. The tons plan was developed in response Vision 2032 is a strategic VISION to the 2017 Urban Land Institute vision for Nassau County that UCIOBEIZ01 BOOK report on the impacts of growth was adopted in 2007. The plan on western Nassau The aa13 County. VINIS is committed to managing Vision Book is the result of a growth and creating sustainable community-driven process that included extensive economic development in a way public outreach to gather input from residents, property that maintains and improves and business owners, and state and local agencies. the County's quality of life and The plan's goals, objectives, and strategies center uniqueness. The plan is used as around preserving the character of western Nassau and a foundation for many plans and supporting the historical and civic services to maintain documents to date and has been the current quality of life. pivotal in guiding policy and decision-making over the last nearly 20 years. WIW! BASISCUNTENT MNII The William Burgess Context Cuvsic IVIEV BLEPENI and Connectivity Blueprint is a The Nassau County Mobility Plan Report adopted district plan that reflects Nassau in 2021, outlines essential strategies for addressing County's recognition of the need transportation challenges within Nassau County. The u for more cohesive and sustainable report aims to enhance mobility, alleviate congestion, EWILLIAM BURGESS that IST development patterns in and improve transportation infrastructure. part of the County. The District, The Parks, Recreation, and Open which encompasses 5,400 acres Space Master Plan (PROSMP) in southern Nassau County, is adopted in 2021, acknowledges envisioned as a hybrid form-based AKS D code district, on A the importance of parks and focusing quality, recreation facilities in enhancing compact urbanization and multi-modal connectivity. The plan aims to facilitate the formation of an inclusive community life, aesthetics, property values, tourism, and community where people can live, work, play, and stay. the overall image of the county. The East Nassau Community Planning Area (ENCPA) It provides the County with a is a sector plan which was adopted in 2011. The plan frameworkforimprowang: access to focuses on the development of approximately 23,570 recreation facilities for all County acres located near Yulee in Nassau County as a mixed- residents, recommends policy changes to implement use and inclusive community. The plan incorporates the vision of the PROSMP, and provides the County with conservation areas, mixed-use nodes, commercial administrative guidance for future park development. centers, industrial areas, a comprehensive trail network, The Nassau County Vulnerability Assessments provide public facilities and amenities, and residential areas. critical insights for resilient planning, ensuring the Since its adoption in 2011, there has been development County's preparedness and adaptability in the face of progress with the development of Wildlight, continued environmental challenges. The vulnerability assessments residential growth, and the approval of plans to guide focused on evaluating which areas and peoples are the next phase of development with the Commerce Park most vulnerable to climatic events such as storm surge and future growth areas. and flooding due to proximity to water features and floodways. It further identifies where critical public infrastructure may be susceptible to flood impacts. 11 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 The SR200/ A1A Corridor Master PL AN Plan adopted in December 2021, is a comprehensive document that outlines the future vision for the SR200/A1A Corridor from Police Lodge Road to the Shave Bridge. The plan aims to transform the corridor into a multi-functional, safe, and sustainable area that connects people to the places where they live, work, play, and stay. Many of its recommendations are applicable to other similar corridors around the County. The Historic Resource Survey was conducted to identify historic structures and significant cultural spaces. The plan provided recommendations on how to support preservation efforts countywide. NASSAU In2019,theCountyCommissioners FLA adopted the 5-year Strategic Plan to guide County initiatives and policies over the next five years. The development of this plan draws on key initiatives and actions from foundational community studies, identifying the essential steps needed to implement various plans in the short term. The Strategic Plan outlines specific outcomes, projects, initiatives, and priorities, setting bold targets to address the challenges facing the County. The Nassau County Transit Study (2024) reviewed overall transit needs from data and analysis, as well as community engagement. It highlighted access to employment, access to healthcare, tourist transportation, and improved rural area access as key factors for considering future needs and services for the transit system. Nassau County established the Conservation Lands Acquisition and Management (CLAM) program in 2020 as a means to better manage its natural resources amid increasing development pressures. The CLAM program uses GIS technology to create a Resource Ranking Map, assessing potential conservation lands based on water, habitat protection, working lands, and recreation. The CLAM goals focus on water issues, species and habitat protection.recreation. openspace.qualilyoflfe, working lands, and value for money. The plan identified priority properties for acquisition and was funded through a referendum and appropriation of millage from taxes. Egar's Creek Greenway South Entrance sion-2050 Nassau County, Florida 12 DRAFT 0514 2025 Demographic Snapshot Nassau County's demographic profile reflects a dynamic population that balances longstanding residents with newcomers drawn to its natural beauty, strong sense of community, and economic opportunities. NASSAU COUNTY, FLORIDA 100,763 Population By Place Current Population %OF %OF LAND LAND POPULATION POP. AREA AREA Current Population by Age NASSAU 100,763 100% 648.7 SQ. 100% MI. 5% CALLAHAN 1,680 2% 1.3 SQ.I MI. 0,20% 14% 24 7% HILLIARD 3,090 3% 5.5 SQ.MI. 0.85% 23- 54 - 34% 55. 64 - 16% FERNANDINA BEACH 13,499 13% 12.6 MI. SQ. 1.92% 05-79 19% 80- 5% UNINCORPORATED 82,494 82% 629.3 SQ. 97.03% NASSAU COUNTY MI. C.000 20,000 56.C00 Source: Bureau of Economic & Business Research, Esri Business Analyst, US Census Bureau ACS 5. -Year Estimates (2017-2022), NASSAU COMMUNITY BREAKDOWN People per Household Home Ownership Education NASSAU 2.49 NASSAU 83% (OWNER) 17% (RENTER) NASSAU 32% (BACHELORS HIGHER) CALLAHAN - 2.40 CALLAHAN 62%/38% CALLAHAN 12% HILLIARD 2.53 HILLIARD 55% 45% HILLIARD 9% FERNANDINA BEACH 2.09 FERNANDINA BEACH 82% 18% FERNANDINA BEACH 49% & Disability Median Household Income Poverty NASSAU 17.4% NASSAU $84,085 NASSAU 9% CALLAHAN 15.5% CALLAHAN $52,688 CALLAHAN 14% HILLIARD (DATA UNAVAILABLE) HILLIARD $64,375 HILLIARD 17% FERNANDINA BEACH 16.4% FERNANDINA BEACH $86,494 FERNANDINA BEACH 11% Source: Bureau of Economic & Business Research, Esri Business Analyst, US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates (2017-2022) 13 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFTO 05. 14 2025 Below is a side-by-side comparison of demographics, starting with the smallest area, Nassau County, followed by the regional average of neighboring counties (Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, and St. Johns), and finally the largest area, the State of Florida. NASSAU REGION FLORIDA Median Age 46.3 40.9 42.4 a Ages under 18 19.5% 22% 19.6% Ages 65 & up 23% 18% 21% People per 140 462 401 Square Mile Household Size 2.5 2.6 2.5 Family Size 2.9 3.1 3.1 Median $84,085 $79,960 $67,917 Household Income & Zero Car 3 3% 4% 6% Household Housing Units 42,121 695,854 9,915,957 T Owner Occupied D 87% 77% 67% Housing aa Renter Occupied a 13% 23% 33% Housing Vacant Housing 9% 10% 16% 0 Poverty Rate 9% 10% 12% Source: Bureau of Economic & Business Research, Esri Business Analyst, US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates (2017-2022) Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida 14 DRAFT 05.14.2025 Key Challenges & Opportunities The following sections provide a summary of findings from the Community Memorandum. For more detailed information and data sources, see the full document. LAND USE & GROWTH MANAGEMENT Existing Development Patterns A Balanced Approach Nassau County is primarily designated for low-density The County's population is expected to roughly double development, with over 78 percent oft the County having over the next 25 years. While developments like the future land use designations of "Agriculture" which ENCPA, WBD, and T2T can accommodate much of this allows for one dwelling unit per acre, and 73 percent of projected growth, additional housing, commercial and the County having a zoning designation "Open Rural." retailspaces, and employment centerswillstill ber needed. Where wetlands exist, densities are further restricted to The County's landscape and character are key factors one unit per five acres. For agricultural parcels over 320 that attract people and businesses, and to preserve acres in size, densities are intended to be limited to one these qualities, growth must be carefully managed. unit per 20 acres. The development patterns associated Achieving this balance requires proactive planning, with "one unit per acre" are not truly rural in nature, forward-thinking policies, and strategic investments. A they cause a greater strain on County resources, have newfuturel land use map can designate areasfor targeted less support for commercial uses, and ultimately reduce growth, with increased development entitlements to anticipated tax revenues for the County. encourage investment. Public improvements, such as roads, parks, and other infrastructure, can further In the areas generally east of I-95, the development incentivize development in these designated areas. By patterns are more consistent with suburban-style focusing growth in specific locations, the County can development, with densities ranging from one to ten avoid unnecessary and unwanted density increases in units per acre located behind strip commercial along SR- other areas. 200. This pattern of development is highly dependent on the single-occupant vehicle. A lack of parallel roads to SR-200 leads to choke points at major intersections, Conservation Tactics such as Amelia Concourse and Old Nassauville Road. The importance of conservation to the County is Generally, the existing development patterns in the reflected in the percentage of area in the County that unincorporated areas of Nassau County have not has a FLUM designation related to natural features, fostered a strong sense of place or the feeling of small including conservation, recreation, and water. Some town atmosphere. of these areas are designated as conservation due to environmental constraints. As a result, residential development is restricted to one dwelling unit per five Recent Development Shifts acres in wetlands, which is reallocated to upland areas. Recently approved master plans, such as the East State parks and forests, mitigation banks, and perpetual Nassau Community Planning Area (ENCPA) and William conservation zones limit development potential while Burgess District (WBD) and the pending T2TDO, employ protecting properties and enhancing access to open a "character-based code" framework which focuses space. In addition to density limits, there are open space more on the form of development rather than just land requirements for parcels that develop withf floodplainand use. These areas incorporate social spaçes, a mixture of wetland extents, as well as wetland buffer requirements uses within defined village centers, and a greater mix of to protect the integrity of wetlands. housing options within the development program. They also will provide an interconnected system of roads and trails, providing multi-modal transportation options to Historic and Cultural Preservation key destinations. This shift in planning emphasizes the The preservation of historic and cultural resources is need to create more fiscally sustainable development important for maintaining the small-town feel. The pattemsasopposedto. the: sbupanspawdevetoment County has undergone efforts to formalize historic seen in the County today. preservation and can continue to expand upon efforts through updates to land development regulations and Upcoming development within the WBD and ENCPA will comprehensive plan policies. In addition, enhancements be a catalyst for change in the area and an example of can! be made to historic neighborhoods and communities how development can occur in a manner that protects to ensure their long-term vitality. the fiscal health of the County. It will provide an example of how roadways and trails can provide access to the community as a whole. 15 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 LAND USE BY THE NUMBERS Zoning Breakdown Zoning districts are broken down into generalized categories below. 8.6% Other 5.7% Infill within established areas of the County, Residential including within its towns, can help protect rural 78.8% areas by directing growth to places that already Agricultural 5.6% have the necessary public infrastructure. Mixeduse 0.4% Commercial 0.9% Industrial M Future Land Use Breakdown Future Land Use designations are broken down into generalized categories below. m 10% Residential EIME 9% The concept plan for development at the corner of Conseration William Burgess Boulevard and Harts Road envisions 73% a mixed-use center, with multi-family residential and Agricultural 6% multi-story office and retail buildings. Mixed-use 1% Commercial 1% Industrial 1% Other Much of the development in the County has "agricultural" and "residential" categories. This illustrates the County'sreliance oni its lower density and intensity tax base to fund infrastructure and services. It also exemplifies Nassau's standing as a bedroom y community. There is an opportunity to evaluate how redevelopment and new development happens that will diversify the tax base, provide the County with additional revenue sources to support quality of life enhancing elements, and increase economic vitality for generations to come. While one-acre lot subdivisions do not require access to public utilities, their design and proximity do not reflect a sense of "rural character" Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 16 DRAFT 05.14.2025 TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY Safety Considerations Pedestrians and cyclists are vulnerable roadway users, Future Growth And Mobility Network and there is an opportunity to increase safety measures The ini the County. A shift in how crashes are viewed can lead current roadway system lacks parallel corridors to to engineering, education, and other design solutions to major arterials, leading to longer wait times and greater traffic demands. To support the projected population improve safety and reduce severity of crashes. A Vision growth and existing needs, the County should continue Zero Plan, or Safe Systems Approach, aims to achieve to review and assess the Future Transportation Map zero vehicle-related fatalities. This approach integrates Series (FTMS) and long-term needs through Vision behavior and roadway design to address a variety of safety concerns and improvements. The 2050. The County can continue to utilize the pavement County should continue to evaluate roadway cross-sections, management plan and mobility plan to address intersection improvements, and maintenance and capacity needs, respectively. Future capacity projects to ensure there are safe and accessible routes for all routes will need to be redefined west of 1-95 ahead of development happening to ensure there is a well- roadway users. connected network that supports the overall character andi type of growth anticipated. These plans can help the Mobility Plan Update Considerations County acquire and protect future rights-of-way before When the Mobility Plan is updated in 2025, the projects or during development. will be re-evaluated to ensure they meet the needs of the County, align with growth areas, and continue to Context Classification add and improve capacity countywide. Vision 2050 is an Roadway design andland use are closelyinterconnected. opportunity for the County to ensure roadway capacity, Roads should be tailored to meet the specific needs as well as needs and assessment of impact fees are in alignment with the projected users of within a given corridor. Incorporating safety population growth. The Mobility Plan's roadways, trails, and intersection features, supporting multi-modal connections, and improvements should be incorporated into the FTMS integrating green infrastructure can enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of roadways. By using the and Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) Long FDOT Context Classification Guide as a framework, Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) during its next update. Notable roadways to include on the include the can County ensure alignment between state- mobility plan maintained and County roads. Furthermore, evaluating ar rural bypass around the Town of Callahan and an east/ west roadconnectingi the new I-95 interchange to Middle roadways with surrounding development allows the Road. Additional roads may be added during small area Countyto optimize mobility, accessibility, and safetyfor planning efforts around the Crawford Diamond or other all users, while also incorporating features that support the intended land uses. While context classifications planning areas. have been adopted in the WBD and are present in other planned communities, these standards should be Commuting Preferences assessed and applied countywide. Over 67 percent of County residents travel outside of the County for work. Over 81 of commuters The County can implement new roadway cross-section percent for drive alone to work. The mean travel time is 30 areas guidelines experiencing urbanization, such minutes, primarily south into Jacksonville. The volume of as the WBD or other newly identified growth zones. commuters increases the number of cars on the Additionally, new cross-sections should be developed for road, rural roadways to maintain the County's rural character. which increases traffic during peak hours. While the construction of new roads can open up land Transit for commuting purposes is not readily available for development, this often conflicts with the County's today. There is one commuter bus that connects Yulee goal of preserving rural landscapes. To address this, new to a transit hub in Jacksonville. In 2024 the County roadway designs should prioritize maintaining the rural updated their transit master plan to evaluate near- to character and safeguarding the economic resources of long-term options for improving transit in the County. areas like the Town of Callahan. Strategies may include This includes more internal routes, additional stops limiting access points, designating certain routes as on the commuter route in Jacksonville, and improved truck bypasses, or incorporating wide landscape buffers access to the VA Hospital. Long-term, there will be to preserve a natural, rural feel. opportunities to partner with the TPO on commuter rail options to connect Nassau County to the greater region. Additionally, future plans may include using rail lines to link Yulee and Downtown Fernandina. 17 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Trails can be placed adjacent to rural roadway Trails in the Nassau Crossing PUD are located within segments to facilitate safe multi-modal access. the powerline easement, providing for off-street Trails can connect through greenways and parks to connections. This approach can be considered enhance connectivity countywide. elsewhere in the County as a means to increase pedestrian and bicycle access. The County maintains dirt roads, primarily west of Downtown Fernandina has a traditional grid I-95. These roadways provide a rural feel but can be system, which provides for more walkability to timely and costly to maintain, especially when there shops, restaurants, and housing. Wide sidewalks, are more frequent rain and flood events. streetlights, and street furniture enhance the pedestrian realm. Tribartar Newer planned developments, such as the Tributary The County uses roundabouts to help facilitate and Wildlight, include multi-modal transportation travel on Amelia Island, and will include them off options such as bike lanes, sidewalks, and trails to island as well as a means of promoting safe and connect residents to parks and services. walkable roadway systems. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 18 DRAFT 05.14.2025 HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS Housing Availability Cost of Housing Residential growth was slow Housing costs vary throughout the County, with the from 2009 to 2014 due to the average sale price on Amelia Island being double that Great Recession and FDOT - E of western Nassauln Nassau County, only 11 percent of concurrency requirements homes sold were priced at or below 80 percent of the that restricted development 27,481 65% Area Median Income (AMI), which is considered "low along SR-200, averaging only income." Over a quarter of homes sold were affordable 379 building permits annually. at 120 percent AMI, equating to an income of over single-family However, following the $98,000. While there is an ample supply ofhousing at the adoption of Mobility Impact detached units 120 percent AMI level, options are limited for those at 80 Fees, residential permits percent AMI or lower. The income limit for 80 percent increased significantly, with 00 00 AMI is $78,400, but the median income in western 00 00 an average of 1,340 permits Nassau communities is below $70,000. This disparity per year from 2015 to 2022. highlights a significant need for more housing options Since 2015, an average of 143 1,300 for families at or below the 80 percent AMI threshold, 3% new multi-family units have rather than at the higher 120 percent AMI level. been built annually, primarily east of I-95. Currently, single-family 550 multi-family units are attached units Age of Housing permitted but not yet fully (townhome) Approximately 51 percent of owner-occupied housing constructed within the a units have been constructed since 2000. Much of the Wildlight development, and 00000 new growth has occurred in the Yulee area with the another 500 units are being 000 Planned Unit Developments along Amelia Concourse, 000! considered for the William on Edwards Road, and within the ENCPA. This area has Burgess District (WBD) in also seen much of the commercial growth over the last 2,568 6% Yulee in late 2024. 24 years. Renter-occupied housing is older, with only 30 percent of the available stock constructed post-2000, The current housing units in small and 61 percent built between 1960 and 1999. As new stock in Nassau County is multi-family homes are constructed in desirable areas of the County, predominantly comprised buildings some of the older owner-occupied housing stock will of single-family detached (2-9 units) likely be converted to the rental market. homes and mobile home units, with multi-family housing comprising a much smaller Emerging Housing Options share. There is a notable Over the last five years, there has been a greater diversity absence of "missing middle" in housing options. New multi-family housing has been housing options, such as 2,732 7% constructed in the general Yulee area including, but not townomesowpomesmut. limited to, Mills Creek Preserve, two apartment buildings units in large muls- Amelia plex developments, cottage in Wildlight, and the Vintage Island Apartments family buildings apartments, tiny home (within the limits of the City of Fernandina Beach). The (104+ units) developments, and similar Nassau County Development Review Committee is housing types. These types por currently reviewing additional apartments in the William of housing offer a variety of Burgess District and the Tributary, which will increase price points and maintenance the stock by nearly 1,000 new dwelling units. Within levels, catering to a broader 8,040 19% the William Burgess District, there is a requirement to range of homebuyers and other units provide 15 percent of the housing as affordable. renters. Introducing missing (mobile home) middle housing could help In addition, there is a single-family rental complex in meet diverse housing needs Wildlight, and a senior community and an assisted living/ and stabilize the market. Composition of independent living facility are currently under review. units These new housing developments provide a variety of existing housing housing options for county residents. in Nassau County. Sources: American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2022), SB Friedman 19 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE Public Services Environmental Constraints One challenge Nassau County will encounter is the Nassau County is encumbered by floodplains, wetlands strain on existing public safety and utility systems and coastal high hazard areas (CHHA), or areas unless additional facilities and capacity is added. While within storm surge for a category 1 hurricane. Critical the County has proactively established a relationship infrastructure is essential for evacuation and movement with the Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA), continued of goods and services during emergency events. Due coordination is important as much of the growth is to flooding events and the use of roadways as conduits projected in JEAS service areas. Coordination on for stormwater, in addition to daily use by cars and service boundaries with municipalities will be critical trucks, roadways may fail sooner and ultimately burden in determining where growth occurs. To better ensure taxpayers. These challenges can increase in severity as growth boundaries it may be appropriate for the County the infrastructure use is exacerbated by populations to create a Utility Authority. increasing. The County should put forth the effort to ensure critical public infrastructure is located outside As population growth occurs, public safety services will of frequent flood areas when possible and strengthen be strained. The County should continue to evaluate designs when not possible. and maintain levels of service for response times and ensure cooperation between County and municipal services. New and improved roadways, technological advancements, and operational improvements will help ensure public safety and services are maintained. School System Growth The quality of the school system is one of the primary drivers of what attracts new residents to Nassau, # therefore continued investment in the school system is important. As the population increases, the County and school district will face challenges with the substantial investment in renovation, replacement, or new construction of schools. As development areas are identified, the County and the Nassau County School Board can work together to identify appropriate sites Within Wildlight there are available single-family for new schools and ensure the interlocal agreement homes for rent which help people find housing in place accommodates the needs for anticipated options in a larger service-based community. population growth. Infrastructure Vulnerability Infrastructure can often be weakened or damaged during flood events. The County has conducted vulnerability assessments to determine which areas of the County are most vulnerable to storm surge, flooding, and other water-frequent events. This report identified parcels and areas that may pose risks to health and safety, including areas with septic systems and frequent flood areas. It will be critical for the County to consider changing water levels and its impact on infrastructure when planning for new growth areas. Nassau County has taken a crucial step in creating the Stormwater Drainage Department with the goal of reducing flooding impacts and improving water quality. This department evaluates high risk areas, maintains the CRS program, and provides The frequency of flooding has increased over the last the County with an avenue to evaluate flooding impacts. decade. Studies of areas, such as along Thomas Creek, have led to the County pursuing measures to acquire repeat flood properties and evaluate options to alleviate flood risks. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 20 DRAFT 05. 14. 2025 ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS Parks And Opens Spaces Parks, trails, open spaces, and preserves are critical community infrastructure. They provide social, health, and environmental benefits. Nassau County has taken important steps to improving access to parks for the residents, with the development of new parks in coordination with developments, such as Tributary Regional Park and the Nassau Crossing Park. The County is designing a large West Side Regional Park that will provide many social and active benefits for residents that currently have to drive further distances to access similar amenities. The native tree canopy on Amelia Island helps reduce the severity of storms, provides shade, and offers In conjunctionwith the adoption ofthe Parks, Recreation, various environmental benefits. Protecting this canopy and Open Space Master Plan (PROSMP), the County is essential for maintaining the island's ecological health adopted policies to ensure that new development and overall includes quality local parks, that trails are included vitality. within developments, that standards related to siting and amenities are met, and the parks are sufficiently maintained without the need of County resources. This step in parks development will provide access for residents to local parks within a short walk or bike ride of their homes, improving the ten-minute walk to a park standard for new development. Preservation Techniques The County has the opportunity to actively promote and advance open space preservation through Vision 2050 and the 2050 Comprehensive Plan. The Conservation Land Acquisition and Management Program (CLAM) provides the County with unparalleled opportunities Development of a new public park on Blackrock Road for land acquisition for the purpose of conservation will provide adjacent residents with access to a park and preservation. This program and initiative, which within walking distance from their home, in an area was approved by voters, provides the County with a previously not serviced by a park space. roadmap for priority parcels of land to acquire for the long-term environmental vitality of the County. This program, coupled with partnerships, can continue to pursue conservation of critical environmental resources. Many of the identified parcels provide environmental benefits not just for County residents, but for Florida and Georgia as well. In addition to the CLAM, the County can work with property owners to establish conservation easements for the protection of agricultural, silvicultural, and environmental resources. Conservation easements provide environmental benefits by protecting land from development, and also monetary benefits as they may offer tax benefits to landowners or may be purchased by a governmental or charitable entity. Nassau's pristine waterways provide unparalleled scenic, recreation, and environmenta benefits. These areas should be protected and enhanced for long- term sustainabilty. 21 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Water Quality Measures FISCAL ASSESSMENT One challenge Nassau may face is preserving the water quality while mitigating flooding. It will be important Per Acre Value with growth to consider the incorporation of low- A per acre value assessment evaluates land use and impact development on individual parcels, in roadway market conditions to assign dollar values for tax development, and other public buildings and spaces. The revenues. Generally, intensifying development patterns creation and integration of a Stormwater Management yields higher tax revenues. As previously discussed, Plan can help identify regional opportunities for the preserving open space is a priority for Nassau County. collection and cleaning of runoff and water collection. By allowing certain areas to develop at higher densities The use of larger systems, when designed appropriately, and intensities, the County can balance land uses and can serve multiple purposes including the cleaning of have a better tax base to support land preservation run-off, recharging the aquifer with suitable water, and efforts and increase access to recreation. providing for passive recreation opportunities. A1 fiscal audit of the County is a useful tool to understand Protecting the integrity of the connected wetland the cost of service associated with land use and system in Nassau County is crucial for maintaining the development patterns and to identify how land use long-term environmental health and water quality of the patterns can support or detract from the County's region's natural ecosystem. Wetlands play a vital role available resources. This tool can be used to inform in filtering pollutants, controlling floods, and providing decision-making and policy directives related to growth habitat for a wide range of wildlife. These ecosystems and development patterns. also help maintain groundwater recharge and regulate water cycles, which are essential for ecological balance Development patterns that are mixed-use and more and the County's water supply. compact provide a greater return on investment. There are more users sharing the cost of infrastructure, due to proximity, there are typically quicker response times for emergency services, and the greater diversity of uses MARKET & EMPLOYMENT SNAPSHOT provides a wider tax base. This type of development is more fiscally resilient and should be a focus for the Jobs-to-Housing Ratio County. While it is not appropriate or marketable to The projected population and state of the economy are encourage this type of development everywhere, there an opportunity for the County to be forward thinking in may be key areas identified as "mixed-use centers" how it attracts and accommodates growth. Currently, to limit development in other areas of the County. the jobs-to-housingratio in! Nassau Countyis about 0.63. Vision 2050 and the 2050 Comprehensive Plan is an The County aims to achieve a minimum ratio of 0.8, with opportunity to evaluate how and where growth occurs a desired target of 1.1, in order to move away from being to ensure it produces a future that is fiscally resilient. known as a "bedroom community." This would create a more balanced relationship between local jobs and housing, supporting a more self-sustaining economy. Hospitality has been a steadfast element of the County's economy, yet there is a strain on the local workforce and land availability for continued growth. The County should consider how to support the expansion of tourism off n Amelia Island, where there are more resources and land available. For example, agri-tourism in western Nassau can be supported by the development of quality hotels, retail options, and main street character in the towns. There is opportunity to pursue substantial industrial a & development in the Crawford Diamond, Wildlight Commerce Park, and ICI Villages, which provide a variety of jobs with multiple wage brackets. While retail With its small lots and mixture of uses, Downtown development has lagged recently, retail development Fernandina Beach is one of the most profitable areas will occur near areas of new residential growth. Office in the County from the "value per acre" assessment. space in Nassau County has low vacancy rates and high rents suggesting high demand. As the population is expected to grow and age, the need for medical offices will increase to meet demand for medical services. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 22 DRAFT05.14 2025 ALL VOICES 23 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 The Vision 2050Planis built tonaframework thatleverages All Voicesinto One Vision for the future of Nassau County. The planning process and the resulting policies will promote and manage growth, protect and enhance key areas of importance, help the County accommodate future trends, and provide the necessary baseline information to update the County's Comprehensive Plan. "Participation of the governed in Engagement Strategy their government is, in theory, the Engaging with community members, youth, and community leaders is a crucial part of the planning process. cornerstone of democracy- 1a revered Over the course of 18 months, engagement efforts helped to raise awareness of the plan, maintain an open and idea that is vigorously applauded by transparent process, and facilitate active and collaborative 7 participation. The planning process employed a variety of virtually everyone. engagement tools to reach all voices. Sherry Arnstein The Vision 2050 process used a triangulated approach Through citizen participation and a unified vision, to develop recommendations for Nassau's future. This Nassau County residents and visitors will notice approach included a review of data, analysis, and existing a boost in community pride through enhanced studies, coupled with community engagement. The three resiliency, new access and mobility routes, and elements included: social capital. 1. A review of existing conditions in the County is summarized in Chapter 2 of this volume and provided in the Community Memorandum (Volume 1 of this Plan). 2. A: statistically valid vision survey completed by a random sample of residents. And, 3. In-person and online engagement with the community through conversations, meetings, interviews, and surveys. Community voices were heard through interviews with elected and appointed officials, meetings withdedicated plan advisory boards, conversations with stakeholders and interest groups, and discussions with citizens. Presentations to the community provided opportunities for a more in-depthunderstanding of planning initiatives. Paramount to the success of the visioning process was a partnership with the Bicentennial Celebration events hosted by the County. These events were well attended by residents and visitors and brought awareness to the Vision 2050 plan process and its importance. Online engagement allowed residents to participate at a convenient time. A project website included information on pop-up events, bicentennial events, project materials, and online surveys. Throughout the visioning process, surveys provided opportunities for residents and visitors to help to shape the plan recommendations and outcomes. Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida 24 DRAFT 05.14.2025 Engagement Process Gathering input from the community was important The location of in-person engagement opportunities for the development of the plan. There were various are shown in Figure 3.1 on page 33. Engagement efforts opportunities for the planning team to collect insight were spread throughout the County to allow residents and recommendations from the community throughout to participate close to home. the five phases of the planning process. ENGAGEMENT TOOLBOX In-Person Engagement Online Engagement Community Voices Project Website Meetings with the public, community The project website provided materials, a leaders, elected and appointed officials, meeting updates, and pertinent project and county staff. information. Bicentennial Events Surveys Interactive tables at the 200-year Various community surveys were celebration events around the County. provided throughout the project to gain insights into community needs and desires for the future. Public Events Informative presentations to the Virtual Presentations community at commission and council Presentations to the Ambassador Club meetings which included public comment opportunities. Open houses were made virtually and posted to the provided presentations and exercises to project website after for public viewing. solicit feedback on plan elements. Pop-Ups Attendance at community events and meetings with community organizations. ENGAGEMENT TIMELINE FALL 23' EARLY 24' SPRING 24' SUMMER 24' Project Kick-Off Bicentennial Event 1 Presentation to the Bicentennial Event 2 PAC, NPA, and TAC Website Launch Pop-Ups Bicentennial Event 3 Ambassador Program Meetings with Municipal Leader Presentation 1 Ambassador BOCC Interviews Program (Vision, Presentation 2 Presentation to Focus Group Meetings Tourism, Surveys Youth & Young PAC Surveys (Vision, Engagement) Pop-Ups Tourism, Youth& Survey (Building Young Engagement) Pop-Ups Blocks) Community Group Presentations 25 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES BY PROJECT PHASE There were various engagement opportunities available Engagement by each phase of the project is shown for the public to learn more, provide input, and converse below, and at the bottom of pages 25 and 26 and shown with the planning team throughout the process. ini timeline format. PHASE 1: SETTING THE FOUNDATION ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDED KICK-OFF MEETINGS WITH COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND MUNICIPALITY LEADERS, TAC, PAC, AND NPA TO UNDERSTAND THE COUNTY'S EXISTING CONDITIONS. PHASE 2: BUILDING YOUR VISION ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDED: FOCUS GROUP INTERVIEWS, POP-UP EVENTS, AND ONE BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION EVENT, FOUR SURVEYS WERE SENT OUT IN THIS PHASE WITH MORE THAN 1,500 TOTAL RESPONSES. PHASE 3: CREATING YOUR FRAMEWORK ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDED: TWO BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION EVENTS, THREE POP-UPS, COMMISSIONER CONVERSATIONS, COMMUNITY BUILDING BLOCKS PRESENTATIONS, SEVEN SCENARIOS PRESENTATIONS, AND AN ONLINE SURVEY. PHASE 4: DRAFTING YOUR PLAN ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDED: ONE BICENTENNIAL EVENT, COMMUNITY POP-UPS, COMMISSIONER CONVERSATIONS, AND VISION PLAN PRESENTATIONS, PHASE 5: INITIATING IMPLEMENTATION ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDED: ONE PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD WORKSHOP,AND BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONER HEARINGS. FALL 24' WINTER 24' - 25' SPRING 25' SUMMER 25' Presentations on the Presentations on the Vision Plan Presentation to Growth Scenarios Growth Scenarios to Presentations PAC to the BOCC, Town the PAC to the BOCC, of Hilliard, Town of PAC, NPA Adoption Callahan, and Public Community Group Municipalities, and Presentations to Presentations Public the BOCC Ambassador Program Presentation 3 Survey (Growth Pop-Ups Scenarios) Survey (Growth Scenarios) Bicentennial Event 4 Pop-Ups Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida 26 DRAFT 05.14.2025 COMMUNITY VOICES Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) Ambassador Program The BOCC provided direction for the community vision, The Ambassador Program empowered community reviewed and commented on the growth framework, leaders to play an active role in the visioning process and will consider the adoption of the vision plan, Virtual by generating interest and encouraging participation. one-on-one interviews and in-person workshops were Ambassadorshelpedshareksyengagementopportunities held throughout the planning process. within their organizations, ensuring broader community involvement. Online presentations kept ambassadors informed with planning updates and actionable next City and Town Elected Officials steps, while meeting recordings were shared afterward City officials provided perspective and local context and uploaded to the project website to ensure everyone from municipalities across the County. Interviews at stayed engaged, even if they couldn't attend live. To the onset of the project and presentations during the support their outreach efforts, ambassadors received process provided opportunities for collaboration. marketing kits-including text, graphics, flyers, and postcards--equipping them withi the tools to spread the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) word about upcoming engagement events and project milestones. The TAC consisted of county staff who steered the project, reviewed technical components, and guided outcomes consistent with the directives of the Board Community Events and Workshops of County Commissioners. Having input from different The planning team attended a variety of community departments throughout the process helped to ensure events, including those for the Bicentennial Celebrations, that the recommendations were feasible. open houses, farmers markets, and similar events. These events allowed residents to learn about Vision 2050, participate in input opportunities when available, and Plan Advisory Committee (PAC) obtain survey links. workshops conducted The Community Plan. Advisory Committee, comprised ofthe Planning during the planning process featured informative and Zoning Board, was responsible for providing input and presentations display boards, offering opportunities throughout the planning process, reviewing draft for input on the future of Nassau. materials, and making recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. This committee ensuredi that the outcomes of Vision 2050 aligned with the community's Surveys vision based on public engagement and data collected. Surveys were used to build the vision, allow for input opportunities from the community, and provide Nassau Alliance guidance related to plan recommendations and the Prosperity (NPA) growth framework. A statistically valid survey was sent The Nassau Prosperity Alliance is a coalition of economic to a randomized sample of County residents. In addition, development leaders throughout Nassau County. This community-wide surveys were available online, at committee met virtually to provide input and feedback pop- ups, and other community events on topics related to to ensure economic development recommendations community visioning, youth and young adult needs, aligned with a more resilient, sustainable, equitable, and tourism preferences, building block actions, and growth prosperous local economic landscape in Nassau. scenarios. Focus Groups Project Video Focus group conversations provided topical discussions A ten-minute video highlighted the of related variety people, to challenges and opportunities facing the places, and agencies which were involved throughout County's future. Discussions were held with those the 24-month process and described the purpose interested plan's in development, mobility, conservation and and function for the future of Nassau County. open space, business development, and Nassau's youth. The focus group discussions were held early in the planning processtoprovide a baseline understandingand provide crucial information for plan recommendations. 27 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Community events included opportunities for kids to Presentations held throughout the process kept color and engage with team members. Kids stations various planning committees and the community allowed parents to participate and children to abreast of the status of the plan and provide provide their ideas for the future. opportunities to engage in the planning process. a D U MAs us HWY F 344 SIGNS. Fri7 7am. 6pm AEM6 304528:0429 Saturday 9am - 3pm, 96 541 Pop-ups outside businesses around the County Fliers were placed around the County ahead of events captured additional input from residents. to encourage attendance at the event and provide information on the Vision 2050 Plan. HISTORY 00SA P de The planning team presented to the elected officials In addition to attendance at events, the County of municipalities to gain insight into the needs and displayed historical banners for residents to learn aspirations of the incorporated communities within about and celebrate Nassau's past. Nassau County. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 28 DRAFT 05.14.2025 Bicentennial Celebration In honor of Nassau County turning 200, the Board of County Commissioners hosted a yearlong series of community events and activities. These gatherings provided residents with opportunities to learn more about County initiatives, participate in community-Duilding exercises, and shape the vision for Nassau County! County staff teamed up with local partners to host eleven events celebrating the special qualities of Nassau County. These celebrations spanned the County, from a corn maze in western Nassau to a musical arts tribute on Amelia Island. Among these memorable events, four key events played a crucial role in gathering input for the planning process. The four main events are listed below and described in more detail on page 30 (right). the Kick-Off at' Wildlight (January 2024) > Opening of the Beaches on Amelia Island (May 2024) > Fourth of July Fireworks in Callahan (July 2024) > Tree Lighting Ceremony in Yulee (December 2024) These events united the community in celebrating Nassau's 200th anniversary while providing a valuable platform to share ideas for the future, engage with County staff, and strengthen connections among community members. Alongside the main celebrations, other events included: Nassau Pride Night presented by Nassau Pride . Healthy Kids Day in partnership with the YMCA at Wildlight . Railroad Day Fest & Classic Car Show presented by the West Nassou Historical Society at the Callahan Train Depot . Turpentine Days at the Yulee Branch Library by the West Nassau Historical Society and John Hendricks . Conner's A-maize-ing Acres County Corn Maize Grand Opening . Nassau County Fall 2024 Scavenger Hunt . Current and Tides: A Musical Tribute to Our Waters featuring Sonofarious and presented by Story & Song 29 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 KICK-OFF AT WILDLIGHT OPENING OF THE BEACHES Nassau County's birthday bash kicked off in early 2024 The fun continued in May at Main Beach Park with a witha celebration in Yulee. The event featured live music, summer soiree, alongside the 15th Annual Wild Amelia a kids' zone, a farmer's market, vendors, a chili cook-off, Nature Festival. Highlights included exhibits and live and a cornhole tournament. This also marked the first animals at the Wild Amelia Eco-Expo, the Isle of 8K appearance of the Vision Tent, where attendees could Beach Run, a kids' zone, touch-a-truck, a skateboard engage with priority sticker boards, write a postcard competition, food trucks, and a beer garden. Visitors to your future self, take part in a shark teeth guessing to the Vision Tent provided feedback on the draft game, and mark up maps. Hundreds of people greeted Community Building Blocks through interactive boards, the local pirates and enjoyed the fun Vision 2050 swag, custom coloring sheets with Keep Nassau Beautiful, and creating an engaging and interactive introduction to the a nature-inspired mural backdrop for photos with Wild visioning process. Amelia-themed headbands and masks. FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY The Towns of Hilliard and Callahan hosted an In December 2024, the bicentennial celebration wrapped Independence Day celebration to light up the sky at the up with the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Northeast Florida Fairgrounds. This event featured a pie Justice Center in Yulee. The festive evening included live bake-off contest, watermelon eating contest, food and performances by the Nassau Community Band and the drink vendors, carnival games, and the 'most patriotic' Royal Amelia Dance Academy. Attendees enjoyed the dressed contest. Many stopped by the Vision Tent to holiday vendor market, trainrides, photo opportunities in snap a photo with a custom patriotic mural backdrop and Santa's Village, food trucks, County staff tree decoration provide their thoughts on the draft Community Building contest, and a kid's zone. Visitors stayed cozy in the Blocks. The live music, produced by local resident Winter Wonderland Vision 2050 Tent, where they used Rodney Mills, and the awe-inspiring fireworks perfectly a custom map to share their input on the Vision Plan's wrapped up the celebration. growth scenarios and building blocks. LEI TTERS AA Check out more bicentennial photos on the following pages. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 30 DRAFT 05.14. 2025 S NASSAU COUNTY NASSAU COUNTY BICENTENNIAL BICENTENNIAL 1900s 0: 1920s-1930s 31 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 4.2025 09 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 32 HOMELAND KINLAW ELLIOTTS SILVER HILL. FOLKSTON COLERAIN BLUFF DRAFT 05.14.2025 ST ORD CLARKS KINGSLAND KINGS'FERRY BLUFF SCOTCHVILLE GREYFIELD BOULOGNE ANDREWS TISA ST MARYS 121A HILI LIARD" EVERGREEN FERNANDIN 12i 15 /BEACH 3 TOLEDO 08 DVAL ONEIL o ISLAND MELI NASSAUVILLE ATANTIC CLAN CALLAHAN STGEORGE KENT 301 RATLIFF KEENE Legend 301 Counly Boundary 21 BRYCEVILLE Municipal Boundary NNY Bicentennial Colebration JACKSONVILLE ATLANTIC BEACH Community Meeting Community Popups MATTOX BALDWIN JACKSONVILLE PINE TOP BEACH FIGURE 3.1 Engagement Opportunities Map ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS Community engagement opportunities were provided Celebration events, pop-ups, meetings, and around the County, as shown in Figure 3.1. In-person presentations. engagement opportunities included Bicentennial Bicentennial Celebrations Nassau County celebrated its 200th birthday with a series of events throughout 2024. Vision 2050tents were set up at the Bicentennial Kick-off Celebration, the Opening of the Beaches, the Annual Fourth of July Fireworks, and the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. These opportunities allowed the community to share their thoughts on the County's future, provide feedback on the draft Community Building Blocks, and provide input on the plan elements. Community Pop-Ups More than 1,000 people provided input at pop-up events. These small-scale events occurred across the County and allowed the community to respond to the visions, values, and recommendations established in the plan. Pop-ups were held throughout the County as impromptu stations outside popular venues and at community markets and events. Community Meetings Vision 2050 included community meetings (e.g., community workshops and presentations to elected officials) held around the County at public offices, including Town Halls, Commission Chambers, and similar public places. 33 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14 Engagement Results Engagement by the As detailed in the following community engagement Numbers section of the chapter, residents and visitors were engaged in a variety of ways. Different opportunities to provide input on Nassau's future provided the planning PRESENTATIONS teamwitha variety of topics to consider and explore. This engagement included multiple meetings and interviews 15 TO ELECTED AND with elected and appointed officials, community APPOINTED OFFICIALS organizations, groups, and residents that provided key understandings of the challenges the County faces today, and what needs to be addressed in the future. PRESENTATIONS Attendance at farmers markets, community events, and pop-ups at commonly traversed spaces provided 5+ TO COMMUNITY the team with the opportunity to speak candidly with ORGANIZATIONS residents and visitors. This type of engagement provided the opportunity for all voices to be heard. Various surveys allowed input on key topics during the PRESENTATIONS TO THE planning process. Responses to the surveys are built into 5 COMMUNITY summaries for the various plan elements and inform the plan recommendations. Surveys included: > Visioning. The community vision survey asked STAKEHOLDER respondents to identify Nassau's strengths, 6 LISTENING SESSIONS challenges, and aspirations for the future. > Statistically Valid. A randomized sample of residents was selected to complete a more in- depth visioning survey. COMMUNITY EVENTS 24 > Youth and Young Adults. Organizations and ATTENDED groups focused on youth and young adults were engaged to identify the needs of younger generations. 6 SURVEYS > Tourism. Visitors were asked about what makes Nassau a great place to visit. > Building Blocks. This survey asked respondents 2K+ SURVEY RESPONSES to identify how the building blocks would impact daily life in Nassau. > Growth Framework. Future growth options for Nassau County were presented for feedback from the community. A summary of community engagement responses and key themes are summarized on the following pages. This information helped shape the outcomes of this plan, including the building blocks, preferred future development patterns, and plan recommendations. Detailed engagement responses are included in Appendix C: Community Engagement. Vision 2050 Plan Nassau County, Florida 34 DRAFT 05.14.2025 KICK-OFF AT WILDLIGHT In January 2024, more than 400 people participated Based on community responses the top priorities are in the Bicentennial Kick-off at Wildlight in Yulee. natural resource protection, managed growth, and experiencing the outdoors. Respondents were given three stickers each to place into which column represented their community value priorities. The exercise was also provided at pop-ups around the County with more than 180 responses. Bicentennial Feedback Priority Areas Managed Growth 2 Shared Community Identity Tourism and Attraction Safe & Healthy Communities Infrastructure Maintenance Experiencing the Outdoors 3 Housing Access Climate Resiliency Countywide Connectivity Arts, Culture and Entertainment 5 Employment Opportunities Notural Resource Protection 50 I00 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 Vision 2050 Postcard Responses As part of the Community Visioning process residents were asked to fill out postcards asking where Nassau is The team received a total of 103 postcards, and based today, and where Nassau will be in 2050. on the responses, there is hope and optimism for the future of Nassau County. Today, Nassau Florida is. In 2050, I hope Nassau, Florida will be... open ivework om p rai town metesmal dhon sstay mé. gran chi dre e natural lyarts oclivities ICTIVI Vislo 10 Commuhify enjoy, jed heaith likefamilies sn 1 people ocuses a destination beautitu ishory smalle parks. dervironment potentio play green fdmily opportunities play - family a ) W - families park wildlight, rOWIng children goodspecial developed housing wcommunt vears preservato u ree home childenbeautif Jcounty liveplace imited fsofel infrastr ucT - re people esources affordable un swondertuls equal less - boloced events d thriving nifies egreat reioe ar nature" awesome creudded 35 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 VISIONING SURVEY Between January 2024 and April 2024, community Top Three Challenges Of Nassau County Today: members had the opportunity to share strengths, challenges, and neighborhood elements they would support. The survey was distributed at community events, advertised on the project website, and sent out to community partners. More than 900 responses were Traffic Loss of Unmanaged received. This section highlights the key findings from growth congestion community character the community. Common Themes For Nassau's Future: Balanced Preservation CommunityOriented Prosperity Connected Resilient Conservation Safe Experiences Sustainable Family Friendly Vibrant Heritage Welcoming Top Three Elements You Would Support For Your Top Three Strengths of Nassau County Today: Community: Enhanced Access to Improved mobility services that access to options, Access meet the daily parks, open including to parks, Historic need of the space, and bikes, Flood resistant recreation, and preservation residents conservation pedestrian measures open space (retail, areas facilities, and medical, etc.) public transit YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT SURVEY What is Your Vision for Nassau County's Future? Beautiful With 99 responses between February and April 2024, Growing New Schools members into Nature younger community provided insight what Clean Overcrowded Shopping they hope to see in Nassau County's future. Key issues Country Expanding, Feel Innovative More Infrastructure in Nassau County for young people are growing Arts, Expanding Traditional Dog Parks Culture, and Entertainment, Experiencing the Outdoors, Larger Fnenhy Communty Fnend and omnece Cost of Renting/Buying Housing. Affordable Social Safe Skatepark Walkable Health Focused Equality More Enterntainment Fun Connected Top Three Priorities for Nassau's Future Arts, Culture and Entertainment Experiencing the Outdoors Housing Access 0 10 20 30 40 50 Vision 2050 Plan I Nassau County, Florida 36 DRAFT 05.14.2025 STATISTICALLY VALID SURVEY The Statistically Valid Survey (SVS) is meant to identify Residents were asked about the County's future the wants and perceptions of Nassau County from including investments and priorities, quality of life county residents. The survey was available through improvements, transportation networks and systems, February 2024 and March 2024. To achieve statistical housing, and neighborhood infrastructure. These compliance and reach a 95 percent confidence interval, questions allowfor a more comprehensive understanding of the community's vision and as Nassau surveys were sent out by mail and online to a random priorities sample of households in the County. A total of 401 County continues to grow and progress. This section County residents responded to the survey. highlights some of the key takeaways from the survey. Top Priorities Over the Next 5 Years Based on the sum of survey respondents top three 91% choices, participants think the County's top priorities "agreed". that the over the next five years are: future of Nassau County should include historic preservation of In - unique places. Maintaining a small-town feel, 91% Housing options for all income indicated that levels. are "very or "satisfied" with - Nassau County as a place to live. Landscaping and site design à to reduce heat absorption and improve air quality. 82% were "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with Nassau County as a place to raise children. POTENTIAL GREATP PLACES? 37 Vision:2050.Plon Nassauc punty, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Transportation Systems and Mobility Housing Survey responses denote that transportation and Residents were asked to indicate the types of housing that mobility are important to Nassau County residents. they believe there is an adequate quantity of in Nassau In addition to the investments previously mentioned, County. Respondents indicated there needs to be more residents agreed that the future of Nassau County housing for those making less than $88,000 per year, first should include multi-use paths and trails. Overall, time homebuyers, and retirement housing options. As the residents expressed feeling safe on most roadways County's population increases it is important to have a but identified a need for improvements in traffic flow, sufficient supply of housing to accommodate existing and landscaping, and roadway maintenance. new residents as their needs change. 88% db were "very, supportiye" or 69% "supportive" of the County indicated that believe taking action to ensure streets they and sidewalks are designed there are an adequate number for safe use of all of eahep-/endamiaim, ages y 7ER including rentto-own 79% indicated Nassau County's Support for Neighborhoods future should include Respondents believed the County should help support G à additional multi-use paths and the long-term vitality of neighborhoods. Surveys indicated trails. that the County should do the following things to support neighborhoods: Ensure streets and sidewalks are designed 63% for safe use by people of all ages and abilities rated travel foot as "good" or in Nassau Ensure new developments County. incorporate resilience and flood resistance measures Ensure new or revitalized developments have adequate transportation access, including 57% bikes and pedestrians feel "yery safe" or "safe" traveling by automobile in Nassau County. Develop new homes to support senior living and aging in place Support for Inyestments Improve social services to address homelessness Based on the survey response, transportation, and mobility are key concerns for Nassau County residents. Roadway widening and/or maintenance and technology to improve traffic flow were identified as the top two investments residents would be most willing to fund Healthier Neighborhoods with tax dollars. Aspects of creating healthier neighborhoods include: Less traffie/congestion/air pollution 79% Improved urban tree forest indicated they are "very supportive" of roadway widening or "supportive" and/or Safer, more walkable streets maintenance. 82% were "very supportive" or D "supportive" oftechnology to flow in the @ improve traffic County. Vision 2050 Plan - Nassau County, Florida 38 DRAFT 05.14.2025 GREAT PLACES IN NASSAU COUNTY Ati the Opening of the Beaches and Fourth of. July events, people were asked to identify community locations that are currently great and places with potential. Great Places in Nassau County > The Public Beaches >> Fort Clinch > Community Main Streets > Parks/Green Spaces > Wildlife Areas > Open Spaces > Community Centers A group of women shop in Downtown Fernandina > Local Businesses Beach on Amelia Island. Potentially Great Places in Nassau > Trail Systems > Kings Ferry > Water Recreation (e.g., Splash Pad) > New Parks > Agri-tourism > Activities on the west side of the county > Tree Canopy areas > Historical Sites > New Community Spaces Many of the community responses focused on the Fort Clinch State Park includes the old fort, preservation of Nassau County's history and natural campgrounds, trails, and beach access points for spaces. There is also a desire for new assets that use exploration, activity, and learning. nature as the main draw such as more community parks outside of residential neighborhoods and a larger system of nature trails throughout the County. Other great places have a sense of place or sense of community, such as main street (e.g., Downtown Fernandina Beach), and local beaches. The great places in Nassau provide places for experiences and gathering and show key placemaking elements to consider with future development. Examples of great places in Nassau are shown on page 40. Conner's A-Maise-ing Acre in Hilliard. 39 Vision 2050 Plan - - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Trails on and off of Amelia Island connect residents Beaches are a great amenity for residents and visitors. to parks, beaches, and destinations. Trails are not Areas with authorized driving on the beach provide a only noted as a "great place" but were identified as unique draw for residents and visitors to the County. important through various planning exercises. - The St. Marys River, a historically significant Downtown Fernandina Beach exudes charm, waterway, boasts scenic views and provides even after dark. The city's dedication to historic recreational opportunities that should be protected. preservation has maintained its classic main street ambiance. u ( Historical and cultural sites and homes support the Parks provide residents with spaces to play, exercise, character and sense of place in the County. These explore, relax, and interact. The development of places preserve Nassau's history, and can help parks has been a priority of the County in recent inform its future. years, with multiple new, parks opening since 2020. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 40 DRAFT 05.14.2025 BUILDING BLOCKS BALANCE. On a scale of one to five, the The building blocks were explored during the Opening of average was 3.7 indicating a 74 the Beaches, the Fourth of July Celebration, and several Balance percent approval of the pop-up events, where respondents were asked to share Building Block. One consistent what success with each building block would look like. A theme in responses is the desire survey was conducted to assess how each building block for growth to occur more slowly would impact respondents' lives, with participants rating than the current rate. Other the statements from 1 to 5 (1 being adverse, 3 neutral, focus comments on the need and 5 positive). These questions aimed to understand for thoughtful development patterns that account how strongly each statement resonated with residents for both economic and environmental resilience and and to define what success would look like for them. sustainability. In-person events received nearly 400 data points, and At the Tree Lighting Ceremony, elements to there over 400 support were responses to the survey, which are Balance were presented and ranked attendees. The summarized below. The by full responses can be found in top three elements to support balance were: preserve Appendix C: Community Engagement. rural character, establish conservation standards, and Based on the responses and analysis, an additional coordinate the expansion of public utilities. building block related to governance was created to fill gaps in the statements. Responses informed plan CONNECTIVITY. recommendations. On a scale of one to five, the average was 3.7, indicating AUTHENTICITY. a 74 percent approval of the On a scale of one to five, the Connectivity Building Block. average was 4.2 indicating an Common responses included 84 percent approval of the the desire for alternative routes Authenticity Building Block. or public transportation to When asked to provide open- reduce the number of vehicles ended feedback on the building on Amelia Island and an block, responses generally increased number of parallel noted the small-town character roadways with bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. throughout the County and the desire for historic However, other responses expressed concerns that preservation. Respondents indicated that improvement improved connectivity will drive too much growth in and success would include more arts and culture western Nassau County. outside of Amelia Island and place-based development At the Tree Lighting Ceremony, elements to regulations that complement the County's historic support Connectivity were presented and ranked by attendees. character. The top three elements to support connectivity were: At the Tree Lighting Ceremony, elements to support proactively maintain roadways, create a connected trail Authenticity were presented and ranked by attendees. network, and plan for new roadways. The top three elements to support authenticity were: support communityt festivals, adopt historic preservation regulations, and create opportunities for public art. GOVERNANCE. This building block was created following an analysis of the survey results and recommendations. O At the Tree Lighting Ceremony, elements to support governance were presented and ranked by attendees. The top three elements to support governance were: maintain a people-first perspective, provide quality public services, and retain quality staff. 41 Vision 2050 Plan - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 HOUSING. OPPORTUNITY. On a scale of one to five, the On a scale of one to five, the average was 3.8, indicating average was 3.7, indicating a 76 percent approval of the a 74 percent approval of the Housing Building Block (which Opportunity Building Block. was "Stability" in the survey). Many respondents expressed Survey responses repeated that consumers would welcome the desire for more housing more small businesses in options at varying price the County. One notable points in Nassau County. Respondents' also indicated suggestion was to consider a job training program for favorability of new housing to benefit teachers, underserved communities. firefighters, and service workers. At the Tree Lighting Ceremony, elements to support At the Tree Lighting Ceremony, elements to support Opportunity were presented and ranked by attendees. Housing were presented and ranked by attendees. The The top three elements to support opportunity were: top three elements to support housing were: support retain and support existing businesses, strengthen quality neighborhoods, increase attainable housing, and existing employment areas, and concentrate economic incorporate safety into neighborhood design. growth in desired growth areas. LIVABILITY. RESILIENCY. On a scale of one to five, the On a scale of one to five, the average was 4.3, indicating average was 4.3, indicating 090 an 86 percent approval of an 86 percent approval of a the Block. Block. a 8 Livability Building the Resiliency Building A recurring theme in open- Continuing to preserve and ended survey responses was conserve agricultural and entertainment and recreation open spaces was a common opportunities for children. theme in survey responses. Respondents identified creating However, several respondents accessible parks and green acknowledged that there are often conflicting spaces that are programmed for community building as demands between economic development and an opportunity for improvement in the County. resiliency objectives. At the Tree Lighting Ceremony, elements to support At the Tree Lighting Ceremony, elements to support Livability were presented and ranked by attendees. The Resiliency were presented and ranked by attendees. top three elements to support livability were: increase The top three elements to support resilience were: access to parks, provide healthy food options, and increase the amount of conservation lands, preserve incentivize entertainment options. the timberlands, and prepare for effects from extreme weather events. Vision 2050 Plan Nassau County, Florida 42 DRAFT05,14.2025 OUR STRENGTHS OUR CHALLENGES Passion Availability of Resources Theresidents of Nassau Countyhave a deepappreciation Residents noted that while the County offers various for their culture and heritage. This sense of pride in the services, they are distributed unevenly. Winn Dixie is community is the hidden gem of Nassau, contributing to the only grocery store chain west of I-95, and most its identity and vibrancy. They are committed to seeing medical services are found in Yulee or on Amelia Nassau continue to thrive in the future for generations Island. The Department of Health is the only Medicaid to come. dental provider in Nassau County, and there are limited medical services available. Additionally, there are fewer County parks near Callahan and Hilliard. Homeowners Diversity of Natural Resources in unincorporated Nassau County use private waste Nassau's unique and diverse natural resources are management companies for trash and recycling pick- fundamental to its identity. Its scenic rivers, waterways, up, and public water and sewer services are not available and pristine beaches offer numerous environmental, throughout the entire County. cultural, and social benefits. Housing Options Small Town Feel Single-family detached homes are the primary housing Although Nassau County is geographically large, option in the County, which may present challenges its towns and residents maintain a strong sense of for some, such as being too large, requiring extensive community and a small-town atmosphere. The County maintenance, or incurring high modernization costs. has a rich history, with many families having lived here Alternative housing options, such as townhomes, multi- for generations. Throughout the year, festivals and plex units, cottage/tiny home neighborhoods, and senior community events help bring people together. living options, are limited. This scarcity of diverse housing options often forces individuals to purchase or rent homes that do not fully meet their needs or preferences. Community Services The County offers a wide range of community services, including retail and dining options in the central areas, Job Opportunities expanding medical facilities, a growing business base, Over 60 percent of County residents commute outside and a variety of parks and open spaces. The County the County for work. Additionally, a significant portion prioritizes providing its residents with high-quality of local employment is in the tourism sector, which public services. tends to offer seasonal and lower-paying jobs. As a result, there is a strong demand for higher-paying job Safe and Family Friendly opportunities, greater upward mobility, and more stable local employment options for families Nassau considering County is family-friendly, offering a high quality relocation to Nassau. of life, excellent school districts, and a wide range of services to support family living. Nassau offers high- quality public safety services, with quick response Traffic times for emergencies. The growing number of medical Traffic and congestion were common concerns in centers will also improve access to emergency care. With discussions. Key roadways in the County, including SR- low crime rates and generally safe roadways, Nassau is a 200, US-1, US-17, and US-301, are often congested due secure and desirable community to live in. to a lack of parallel routes and the need for residents to travel outside the County for work and services. With Preservation Efforts limited transit options and multi-modal networks, many people rely on single-occupant vehicles, which further Residents continually noted that historic and cultural traffic worsens the situation. preservation is something they are both proud of and desire more of in the County. It makes Downtown Fernandina and the surrounding areas charming. Existing Development Patterns Nassau's cultural history is diverse and must continue to In conversations with residents, it was mentioned that be cherished and preserved. Yulee is starting to feel like "anywhere USA" lacking distinct character, with a uniform appearance and heavy traffic. Many people are concerned about this type of growth spreading to other areas of the County. 43 Vision 2050 . Nassau County, Florida DRAFT05.142025 OUR OPPORTUNITIES Managing Growth The County should safeguard its agricultural and areas. Government operations and offerings should silvicultural assets, as these resources are essential for be commensurate with population growth. Additional preserving rural heritage, protecting areas with limited public services, such as new parks and open spaces, development, and promoting sustainable growth public libraries, and community centers, should be patterns. Targeted growth within specific areas of activatedandenhanced toensure: accesstoc community Nassau will enable the Countyto balance development resources. with the conservation of rural areas, maintaining the rural character where needed. At the same time, Economic Vitality this approach will diversify the tax base and create The County relies heavily on property taxes to fund its employment and housing opportunities in other areas operations, so diversifying its economic base is crucial ofNassau. for improving community services. Expanding the economy would create new sales tax opportunities and Sustainability increase property tax revenue from non-residential The County should continue improving sustainability uses. A strong job market with higher wages boosts and protecting residents from the long-term effects residents' disposable income, supporting local offeodingandenvirenmentaldamage. Thisincludes businesses. When businesses cluster together, they but is not limited to, designing energy-efficient can collaborate and drive growth. A thriving economy buildings, exploring low-impact development also provides resilience during natural disasters or methods, and strengthening protection for its economic downturns and helps fund social needs such waterways. Additionally, the County should expand as parks, programs, conservation efforts, stormwater conservation efforts through the CLAM program and management, and infrastructure development. partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, and residents. Green and Open Spaces Physical infrastructure and natural spaces, like Community Connections recreational facilities, trails, parks, and open areas, Continued planning for improvements related to are vital for community well-being, environmental connectivity is paramount for quality of life. This not sustainability, and individual health. They offer spaces only includes the mobility-related connections with for exploration, socializing, and relaxation, helping new roads, roadway improvements, trails, and transit to build stronger community bonds and a safer routes. It also includes broadband connections and environment. Natural areas also provide a mental expansion. It also incorporates social connections and break from urban life and support ecological health. interactions, such as through offering new programs Well-designed parks can boost property values and and services for residents to interact. stimulate economic growth. Nassau County has made significant progress in recent years with its Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan, new Sense of Place trails, and conservation funding. These efforts should Many of the locations people identified as "great be continued and expanded to ensure these vital places" or potential "great places" include parks, infrastructuresremain available for future generations. natural features, trails, community centers, and main streets. These spaces offer gathering areas and cultural resources that foster a sense of community Arts and Culture and contribute to the overall health, happiness, and Cultural assets and resources should be celebrated, well-being of residents. The things that draw people including cultural spaces, organizations, art, festivals, to places include a variety of opportunities and events, heritage, and industries that shape a experiences, spaces for interaction and gathering, and community's traditions and sense of place. Nassau has a safe and welcoming environment. arich and diverse history, from the Timucua presence in the area to Spanish and British settlements after 1562, and the County's growth over the past 200 years Public Services throughitsport shrimpingi industry, timber processing, As the County grows, it will be important to continue and the pressures of development in northeast Florida. to ensure high-quality public services are provided As the County has expanded, various cultural elements to residents. Public safety services should strive to have become deeply embedded in the community's maintain appropriate ratios to meet the needs of the identity. From thel heritage and rural culture ofwestern community. There should be alternative routes to Nassau to the emerging performing arts scene and expedite response times, continued coordination with local artist market in Fernandina, there is a strong municipalities for the provision of public services, desire to expand access to the cultural resources that and new stations co-located with identified growth define Nassau today. Vision 2050 Plan Nassou County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Engagement Themes A Throughout the community engagement process, a handful of key themes emerged that were important to residents, stakeholders, and community leaders. These themes are shown in Table 3.1 illustrating how they were expressed throughout the process by multiple Community Voices and across various forms of engagement. These key themes were used to inform the statements created for each building block and their associated objectives and strategies. These key themes represent a summary of the input received and are further explored on pages 47 and 48 as the strengths, challenges and opportunities that Nassau Map exercises allowed residents to spatially show County has in implementing the Vision 2050 Plan. the planning team where opportunities exist to plan for Nassau's future. Table 3.1 tabularly illustrates how the key themes were usedtoinform the statements for the building blocks and their associated objectives and strategies. The table also shows which method of engagement and analysis was used to appraise each theme. The engagement methods cover the various means in which the community voices were heard. COMMUNITY VOICES > Community meetings and events (CM) include public engagement events such as presentations to the Community Ambassador Program, Bicentennial Celebration events, pop-ups, and in-person community meetings. > Community Surveys (CS) include all the countywide public surveys except for the statistically valid survey. Community events provided an opportunity for the > Data and analysis (DA) includes the planning team to engage with residents at events gathering of existing conditions and reviews outside of "open house" style meetings gaining more of plans and studies relevant to Vision 2050. input from residents who may otherwise > Interviews with stakeholders and not participate. community organizations (I) includes meetings with the Nassau Prosperity Alliance, focus group conversations, and other meetings with community organizations. > Municipal Leaders input (M) includes presentations to the Board of County Commissioners and municipalities, as well as workshops with the Plan Advisory Committee. This also includes interviews with municipal leaders held throughout the planning process. > Statistically valid survey (SVS) includes responses from the statistically valid survey Youth engagement opportunities allowed the that align with each of the key themes. planning team to learn what kids want now, what's The building blocks statements are provided missing, and how the County can be improved for on page 51, and further explored through plan their needs. recommendations in Chapter 5. 45 Vision 2050 Plan I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 PASSION (CM, CS, 1, M) DIVERSITY OF NATURAL RESOURCES (CM,CS, DA, 1, M, SVS) SMALL TOWN FEEL (CM, CS, I, M) COMMUNITY SERVICES (CM, CS, DA, 1, M) SAFE AND FAMILY FRIENDLY (CM, CS, 1, M) PRESERVATION EFFORTS (CM, CS, DA, 1, M, SVS) AVAILABILITY OF RESOURCES (CM, CS, DA, 1, M, SVS) HOUSING OPTIONS (CM, CS, DA, 1, M, SVS) JOB OPPORTUNITIES (CM, CS, DA, 1, M, SVS) TRAFFIC (CM, CS, DA, 1, M, SVS) EXISTING DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS (CM, CS, DA, 1, M) MANAGING GROWTH (CM, CS, DA, 1, M, SVS) SUSTAINABILITY (CM, CS, DA, 1, M, SVS) COMMUNITY CONNEÇTIONS (CM, CS, DA, 1, M) SENSE OF PLACE (CM, CS, DA, 1, M) PUBLIC SERVICES (cs, DA, 1, M, SVS) ECONOMIC VITALITY (CM, CS, DA, 1 M, SVS) GREEN AND OPEN SPACES (CM, CS, DA, 1, M, SVS) ARTS AND CULTURE (CM, CS, DA, 1, M, SVS) (..) INDICATE WHERE THE KEY THEME CAME FROM: CM - COMMUNITY MEETINGS AND EVENTS; CS - COMMUNITY SURVEYS; DA - DATA AND ANALYSIS; I = INTERVIEWS WITH STAKEHOLDERS AND COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS; M = INPUT FROM MUNICIPAL LEADERS; SVS - STATISTICALLY VALID SURVEY TABLE 3.1 Engagement Themes by Building Block - - - e Vision 2050 Ploan Nassou, County,f Florida 46 DRAFT 05.14.2 2025 ONE VISION 47 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 One Vision summarizes our blueprint and growth framework for Nassau County for the next 25 years and beyond. This framework includes population forecasts, growth scenarios, and preferred development patterns that define the general type and location of growth and supporting community infrastructure. This vision for growth will guide County planning efforts and investment decisions. One Vision Keythemes and values gathered through the community This graphical depiction of growth serves as a clear, engagement process, combined with insights from visual guide for understanding how the community foundational studies, contributed to the creation of envisions future growth, highlighting key areas of the eight building blocks. These building blocks embody County that should be prioritized for development the community's vision for the future and will act as the while ensuring balance to achieve conservation and structural framework for plan recommendations. sustainability goals. The building blocks are designed to steer the growth Additionally, our building blocks address other long- of Nassau County for the next 25 years and beyond. term needs identified within this chapter. These needs They establish clear priorities for the development and include improvements to the transportation network implementation of Vision 2050, offering broad direction to facilitate greater connectivity and mobility, for the future. These building blocks shape the goals, and enhancements to stormwater management objectives, and policies of the Comprehensive Plan, systems to support sustainable development and while also providing a solid foundation for other public mitigate flooding risks. The building blocks also growth and development initiatives. support ongoing conservation efforts to protect natural resources and preserve green spaces, while Our building blocks are visually represented through emphasizing strategies to manage growth effectively a "preferred growth scenario," which illustrates the in designated priority areas. Together, these elements overarching character of growth across the region and provide a comprehensive framework for guiding identifies priority areas for development. growth and development throughout Nassau County. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 48 DRAFT 05.14.2025 BUILDING BLOCK VISION STATEMENTS Our vision for growth and development in Nassau County is reliant on eight community building blocks. The eight building blocks were created through community engagement and a review of foundational studies and ongoing community initiatives. Building blocks are supported by the objectives and strategies for Vision 2050. Authenticity Housing We envision a Nassau County that We envision a Nassau County that celebrates the unique character is intentional about creating and of our communities, preserves safeguarding attainable housing history, and recognizes cultures near local employment centers, and traditions. public facilities, amenities, and high performance public spaces for residents of all ages and their Balance families no matter their stage in life. We envision a Nassau County that takes a balanced and responsible approachtogrowtn,redevelopment, Livability economice epansonandprotecton We envision a Nassau County of rural areas, active agriculture/ that evolves with its citizens by Silviculture, and land conservation providing access to healthy food, areas. medical services, education, the arts, parks, nature, entertainment, socialization, and leisure activities. Connectivity We envision a Nassau County that is physically connected with Opportunity safe, accessible multi-modal We envision a Nassau County transportationoptions sandvirtually that supports retail, business, and connected by leveraging existing industrial innovation, resulting in a and emerging technologies. robust local economy and variety of job opportunities for existing Governance and future residents. We envision a Nassau County served by an effective and Resiliency C accountable local government We envision a Nassau County that gives equitable validity to that is environmentaly, socially, competing values and interests, and economically resilient which expands civic capacities, pursues protects our rich supply of natural the greater common good, and resources, supports conservation, places the long-term best interest fortifies community life lines, and of the whole community at the creates a diversified, sustainable apex of decision making. and resilient local economy. 49 Vision 2050Nassqu County, Florida DRAFT 05.14. Projected Growth Population projections are important for future planning, as they provide a foundation for informed eclsormargenditateye planning. Byunderstanding futurepopulationtrends: planners and communityleaders can anticipate the needs of the community in terms of housing, infrastructure, and public services. This foresight allows for the creation of near- and long- term strategies and policies that align with expected demographic changes, ensuring that the community can accommodate growth. Local jurisdiction's can help guide growth in addition to national, state, and regional market influences by using estimations for population growth to informpredictions and growth analysis. While these predictions are an estimate based on projections and may not always align with actual increases over time, it can support local governments in scaling long term infrastructure investments to support increasing demand as populations grow. Projections can be used to show the fiscal benefits or drawbacks of certain development patterns. Incorporating population projections into scenario modeling ensures that development strategies are rooted in realistic expectations, enhancing their feasibility and effectiveness. Florida's Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BEBR) releases population projections for counties annually. Based on historic annual releases, Nassau County'si is consistently exceeding growth expectations. It will be important to continue to monitor population projections regularly to ensure planning properly considers anticipated growth, Plans can be adjusted to respond to actual population change over time. Planning for growth involves recognizing the need for both residential expansion and the related infrastructure and services essential to support an increasing population and workforce. It is important to assess projected employment trends and the necessary commercial development to support them. This omPHeePosTearN that the necessary commercial and employment opportunities are in place to sustain economic growth, enhance quality of life, and foster a balanced, well-supported community. Nision 2050 Nassdu Cour ty, Florida 50 DRAFT 05.14.2025 POPULATION PROJECTIONS TABLE 4.1 Historical Growth Recent growth rates, shown in Table 4.1 (right) show Population Percent Change that Nassau County has grown rapidly over the last decade. According to the BEBR, Nassau County is the 2010 73,314 fifth fastest growing county in Florida. This growth 2015 75,880 6.3% trajectory underscores the County's dynamic evolution and the challenges and opportunities it faces in shaping 2016 77,841 2.58% its future. Although Nassau County has experienced a 2017 80,456 3.36% higher growth rate ini recent years, it is not expected that this rate of growth will continue for the next 25 years. 2018 82,748 2.85% 2019 85,070 2.81% The Plan compared BEBR growth rates to recent trends to establish a sound projection. Based on data and 2020 89,258 4.92% research, a 2.5 percent Compound Annual Growth 2021 93,012 4.21% Rate (CAGR) was used to estimate the population by 2050, forecasting approximately 197,700 residents. This 2022 95,809 3.01% projection is higher than BEBR forecasts for the County. 2023 100,763 5.17% This isj justifiable because Nassau County is consistently exceeding BEBR forecasts for the high projections. Source: U.S. Census Bureau Forecast populations are shown tabularly in Table 4.2, and graphically in Figure 4.1, below. TABLE 4.2 Population Projections 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 BEBR Medium (1.35% CAGR) 105,700 116,600 125,700 133,500 139,900 145,800 BEBR High (2.35% CAGR) 114,200 131,700 148,000 163,200 177,000 190,200 Vision 2050 (2.5% CAGR) 106,639 120,653 136,508 154,446 174,741 197,704 Bureau of Economic and Business Research (BEBR); Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) Source: Florida Bureau of Economics and Business Research (2023), SB Friedman FIGURE 4.7 Forecast Population (2024 . 2050) 197,700 SBF SCENARIO: 2.50% a 180k 190,200 HIGH SCENARIO: 2.35% 120K 3.8% 60K CAGR 2022 to 2023 2.4% CAGR 2010 ho 2022 K. 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 Historio cal Grewth SBF Scenario BEBR High Scenario Bureau of Economic and Business Research (BEBR); S.B. Friedman (SBF) Source: Florida Bureau of Economics and Business Research (2023), SB Friedman 51 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONS GROWTH FACTORS As the population grows, the demand for employment The development patterns in Nassau County are and services also increases. To determine employment influenced not only by the environmental conditions projections, historical trends through Lightcast (a but also by the priorities of the community and the nationally recognized source of labor market analytics), development policies that enable certain patterns of regional employment growth rates, and population growth. An analysis of these conditions can give the projections were reviewed. Consistent with the County insight into why certain development outcomes population growth, a 2.25 to 2.5 percent growth rate in have occurred. employment is also assumed. This growth represents an increase in nearly 27,000 jobs countywide, which Many factors have influenced growth in the County maintains a jobs-to-population ratio consistent with over the last decade, including the general inflow what exists today. The jobs-to-population ratio has of residents from other states, high quality of life, increased from 25 percent in 2010to 28 percent in 2023. the beaches and natural beauty, and the COVID-19 An additional 27,000 jobs would maintain a 28 percent pandemic which allowed residents to live further from jobs-to-population ratio. Employment projections are their workplaces. Factors that may affect future growth graphically shown in Figure 4.2 (below). include environmental and economic conditions, such as flooding impacts, insurance rates, new larger employers A jobs-to-housing ratio provides a measure to assess located in the County, quality of life, and the continued whether there are sufficient employment opportunities attraction of Florida as a place to live. to support the population residing within a specific Shaping where occurs for the area. geographic The current jobs-to-housing ratio growth is pivotal guiding stands at 1:0,63, which is below the County's one to one local economy and directing infrastructure investments target ratio. The County has the desire to increase it's for the coming years. Growth should be concentrated jobs-to-housing ratio to better accommodate local job in areas with existing or planned infrastructure sO as opportunities and diversify the tax base. to balance the County's urban growth needs with the preservation of its highly prized rural and natural Considering the projected addition of approximately landscapes. This ensures the long-term fiscal resilience 38,000 housing units by 2050, at least 38,000 new. jobs and sustainability of both existing and new development will be needed to support a one to one jobs-to-housing and the ability to meet the needs of today without ratio. Since this requirement surpasses employment compromising the special characteristics of the County projections, the County will need to take extra steps to for future generations. attract more employers in key industries, FIGURE 4.2 Historical and Projected Employment Growth (2001 - 2050) NASSAU COUNTY HISTORICAL AND PROJECTED EMPLOYMENT GROWTH (2001 to 2050) 2.5% CAGR 2085 fe 2055 60K 55 100 50K O 51,500 2.25% 40K 37,100 CAGR 2023 to 2050 2.4% - - o 36,100 CAGR 2001 to 2023 28,300 O 30K 32,900 1.4% 20K CAGR 2023 to 2034 16,900 10K K 2001 2005 2009 2013 2017 2021 2025 2029 2055 2037 2041 2045 2049 at GUU Sceone SBF Low Scenario SBF High Scenario Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR); S.B. Friedman (SBF) Source: Florida Bureau of Economics and Business Research (2023), SB Friedman Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 52 DRAFT 05.14.2025 VISION 2050 Growth Plan Strategy Vision 2050's recommended growth plan strategy is informed by modeling potential scenarios for how the county might grow. Scenario modeling is an essential tool for planning a community's future growth. The process explores the potential long-term fiscal outcomes of various land use and development patterns by creating and testing multiple scenarios. Opportunities and Constraints Mapping Nassau County's diverse landscapes present both opportunities and challenges amid projected growth FUTURE and development. Opportunities LAND USE and constraints mapping in ArcGIS generated a model of existing physical conditions in the County. A depiction is ROADS shown in Figure 4.3. Layers evaluated include future land 259 63 EXISTING use, roadways and infrastructure, DEVELOPMENT existing development patterns, wetlands, floodplains, and natural areas (parks, state owned land, WETLANDS waterways, conservation areas, and similar undeveloped parcels), among other available data. Opportunities included priority conservation lands FLOODPLAINS for future acquisition identified in the Conservation and Land Acquisition Management (CLAM) Program NATURAL (retrieved 2024), planned roadways, AREAS and future potable water and sewer stations. The resulting map provided a visualization of environmental conditions, suitable areas for development, and areas where future growth should be limited. FIGURE 4.3 Opportunities and Constraints Mapping Layers Development of the Scenarios and Modeling of Each Four scenarios, described on pages 67 through70, were created to identify potential types of growtha and the associated fiscal impact on the County. The three scenarios were presented to the community during in-person presentations and through an on-line survey to gather feedback and perceptions on growth opportunities. Fiscal modeling for each scenario showed the financial implications for the identified growth patterns. Input from the processes created the final preferred growth scenario, also called the "Vision 2050 Growth Plan." Resulting in the Vision 2050 Growth Plan The Vision 2050 Growth Plan is the final consensus growth scenario for the County. The growth plan identifies areas of the County that are suitable for future development of variable intensities and character. It emphasizes improving access to jobs and housing options locally, while thinking regionally about improving conservation. The Vision 2050 Growth Plan will be used to inform updates to the Future Land Use Map and Future Transportation Map Series. 53 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2 2025 Character Mapping and Context Areas In addition to the opportunities and constraints mapping described on the preceding page, character Rural Context Areas mapping is an essential component of the growth scenario planning process. Character mapping allows Rural context areas include lightly developed areas, us to understand and illustrate the distinct attributes agricultural lands, conservation lands, and open and qualities of different areas within Nassau County. spaces throughout the County. Future development in these areas should concentrate around existing This process organizes the unique features that infrastructure and roadways to preserve open spaçe define rural, suburban, and urban settings, such as the and character. patterns of land use, extent of natural open space, mobility infrastructure, and built environment. There should be a mixture of character areas and built Suburban Confext Areas environment to support the different residential areas and businesses that call Nassau County "home." Suburbancontext areasi include most of the developed Community character goes beyond the typical areas of the County. The character of development is classification of land uses to also account for primarily auto-oriented residential and non-residential the physical traits visible in different areas of the development. It is anticipated that over the next 20 community. Typical land use classifications such years, some redevelopment and reinvestment in as residential, commercial, office, and industrial areas currently exhibiting suburban characteristics indicate the general functional use of land. However, may begin to incorporate some urban development a community character approach also encompasses patterns in targeted locations. such factors as: > development density (generally determined by Urban Context Areas lot and building size); > intensity (floor area or building coverage); Urban context areas provide a more connected > ratios of open space and impervious cover; and, roadway system, have a greater mixture of uses, and exhibit more of a traditional The > development pattern. the amount of vegetation or volume of urbancharacter provides buildings closertoi the street, landscaping. alley access, wider pedestrian-oriented sidewalks, and It is this combination of basic land use and physical similar characteristics. design standards (e.g., the proportional balance of green, brown, and gray spaces) that creates different andi identifiable: areas ofthe community. Consequently, importance of the interrelationship between land use, Special Confext Areas character, and design cannot be overstated. Special context areas contain unique land uses that The Vision 2050 Growth Plan is comprised of eight are difficult to classify according to typical rural, character areas which are a further subdivision of the suburban, or urban characteristics. special context rural, suburban, urban, and special context zones. An areas may include rural towns and large employment introduction to the Vision 2050 character areas can centers, such as business or industrial parks, be found on page 57. government facilities, or institutional campuses. Nassau County contains a variety of land use and development characteristics that range from rural Context Area descriptions can be inferred to represent (farming and countryside found throughout western existing land use and development conditions in Nassau), to suburban (growth patterns found Nassau County. For purposes of the Vision 2050 along SR-200 and in Yulee), to urban (proximate to growth scenario modeling and mapping exercise downtown Fernandina Beach). however, Context Areas represent intended future development patterns. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 54 DRAFT 05. 14.2025 Character Areas VISION 2050 GROWTH PLAN Character areas provide a high-level organizational The character area mapping evaluates structure to define Nassau County's growth vision. The process the current and desired development patterns at eight character areas defined in this Plan are organized by rural to urban context areas. a high level. While this helps Vision 2050 describe the type of growth in different areas of the County The creation of the character areas did not occur in a based on the desired character, it does not provide vaçuum. Their creation was informed by a review of prescriptive and/or quantitative information on existing land uses, including the William Burgess District, factors such as densities, intensities, specific land Timber to Tides Design Overlay, and the East Nassau uses, or other development aspects, which are Community Planning Area, as well as the County and addressed in the Comprehensive Plan and Land municipal Future Land Use Maps (FLUM). This, coupled Development Regulations. with a review of existing development patterns, informed the development considerations that are presented for VISION 2050 each character area described on pages 57 through 64. Within Vision 2050, character areas are illustrated in Figure 4.10. Character areas will be further refined into place types, and will be subsequently implemented FUTURE LAND USE MAP AND through revisions to the County's zoning districts and TRANSPORTATION MAP SERIES regulations. Updates to the FLUM and zoning map will be provided with the 2050 Comprehensive Plan and subsequent implementation measures through updates Character areas will be further refined into "place to the zoning regulations. types" when creating the 2050 Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map (FLUM). They will define more Each character area overview includes: detailed development parameters including densities, intensities, land uses, and other development > Character Area Name. Also references the elements required within the comprehensive plan. associated context area. The corresponding future transportation map series > Description. A statement of intent defining the (FTMS) will be updated to align with the FLUM. long-term growth and development vision for each character area. The FLUM and FTMS are statutorily required maps that define formal policy for growth and Development Considerations. Essential, use, development. These legal maps are critical in and site features within each character area, identifying a full and clear growth framework for which may be further augmented through the Nassau County. creation of subsequent "place types." Representative Land Uses. High level classifications which are not exclusive and 2050 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN may be further refined through the creation of subsequent "place types." > Example Imagery. Local and non-local images. ZONING MAP Vision 2050's character area descriptions and development considerations are largely focused on the Future land use categories are implemented design and use of improvements on public and private through zoning. Zoning regulations control lot lands. Full realization of the growth vision which they sizes, building heights, setbacks, access standards, represent requires investments in public road rights- open space requirements, landscaping, among of-way that are not only the backbone of an efficient other things. Nassau's zoning districts should transportation: system, but that also support the function be updated to better align with future land and aesthetic of adjacent lands. Roadway design use categories and character areas once the considerations which complement this Plan's proposed comprehensive plan is complete. character areas are provided on pages 88 through 90. LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 55 Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Nassau County's Character Areas The rural-to-urban character context is an organizing philosophy within which the Vision 2050 Growth Plan was prepared. This philosophy was tested through a series of growth framework exercises, whereby participants could envision potential future growth patterns in Nassau through the application of more detailed character areas. Eight overarching character areas were identified as part of the character mapping exercise. The areas are introduced below and are described in more detail on pages 57-64 Rural Context Character Areas NATURAL & CONSERVATION RURAL AREAS AREAS Areas that support large lot and Areas to remain natural and open agricultural uses. Suburban Context Character Areas SUBURBAN COMMERCIAL AREAS SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL AREAS Areas that reflect auto-dominant Areas that reflect low to moderate development patterns in commercial density residential, auto-oriented or office centers. neighborhoods. Urban Context Character Areas URBAN GENERAL AREAS URBAN CENTER AREAS Areas with a mixture of uses Areas that have higher concentrations designed at the pedestrian scale, of mixed-use development, typically such as a main street. at identified nodes or intersections. Ih Special Context Character Areas RURAL TOWN AREAS EMPLOYMENT CENTER AREAS Expansions of existing towns for joint E Areas that provide large-scale job planning. opportunities and include a variety of - To uses that support each other. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 56 DRAFT 05.14.2025 NATURAL AND CONSERVATION CHARACTER AREA RURAL CONTEXT Natural and Conservation character areas promote Representative Land Uses* the preservation of natural and ecologically significant > Wetlands areas of the County including state forests, Florida- managed areas, conservation lands, wetlands, and > Floodplains mitigation banks. Most development is not appropriate Parks fori these areas duet to potential envronmentalimpacts, higher costs, and engineering challenges. There may > Open space be cases where accessory and context-sensitive > Preserves development may be suitable within Natural and Conservation character areas when directly related to *List of land use categories not exclusive. each property's resource conservation objective (ie., passive park development, learning centers, etc.). Development Considerations Example Imagery Natural and Conservation character area development should adhere to clearly defined safeguards to protect ecosystems and biodiversity, especially in environmentally sensitive areas. General considerations for Natural and Conservation character areas include: > Limit development types and scale within - environmentally sensitive areas through updates to the Land Development Code. > Consider contatsematliedabpnent projects on a case-by-case basis. Suitable development may include learning centers, passive recreation, investments in research, monitoring, education and learning (MEL). > Expand the St. Mary's Overlay District to incorporate other major aquifers and waterways. Integrate passive and active recreation sites and facilities within open spaces and natural areas. ngs > Apply robust buffer requirements adjacent to wetlands to ensure there are barriers between development and essential natural resources. >. Pursue comprehensive plan land use amendments and zoning changes for land designated for conservation or outdoor recreation to allow for accessory uses of limited scale (i.e. educational structures, administrative offices, outfitter facilities, concession stands, etc.). Apply complementary building and site design parameters which minimize physical and aesthetic impacts to the property. 57 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 RURAL CHARACTER AREA RURAL CONTEXT Rural character areas promote the rustic heritage Representative Land Uses* of the County and facilitate the productive use of > Agriculture natural resources. These areas support agricultural uses, farmsteads, woodlands, and large-lot residential > Silviculture estates. Small-scale commercial and civic uses may be > Ranching appropriate along major roadways to support pastoral > Large-lot residential lifestyles and the use of surrounding natural areas. The provision of public water and waste water infrastructure > Open space is not anticipated for these areas. > Public facilities *List of land use categories not exclusive. Development Considerations Rural character areas are crucial not only for maintaining the County's heritage over the long term but also for supporting self-sufficiency and resiliency. General Example Imagery considerations for these areas include: > Review and update land uses allowed within the desired rural areas. >> Evaluate development standards to support agriculture, farming, and other uses. Examples may be minimum lot sizes for certain uses, deep setbacks, driveway spacing requirements, cluster development options, and other building and site design standards to promote rural character. > Minimize non-residential or non-agricultural uses to limit strip commercial development. Closely manage development scale, size, and type where non-residential uses are allowed with a focus on commercial services. > Limit the availability of public utilities in these areas to discourage suburban-style development. > Adopt roadway standards that support rural character for new roads (such as the Callahan Bypass). Roadway features may include limited access standards, large landscape buffers, drainage swales, and trails to enhance off-street connections through rural areas. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 58 DRAFT 05.14.2025 SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL CHARACTER AREA SUBURBAN CONTEXT Suburban Residential character areas provide for low- Representatives Land Uses* to moderate-density residential development in areas > Single-family (detached, attached, reasonable to large with access existing infrastructure and lot) and similar housing options mobility networks. Other supporting uses include commercial services, schools, parks, and places of > Multi-family housing worship. Detached, single-family dwellings are the > Public facilities predominant housing type but other housing options are promoted in transitional areas between major > Limited small-scale commercial roadways, non-residential development and single- family residences. *List of land use categories not exclusive. Development Considerations The Suburban Residential character area reflects a predominant development pattern in eastern Nassau. Example Imagery General considerations for future development in these areas include: Evaluate opportunities to enhance public services proximate to existing and future residential developments, such as new public parks, siting for schools, fire stations, roadways, trails, etc. > Identify development standards that help increase the availability of "missing middle" housing options within larger developments. > Apply aesthetic design standards to promote a consistent "sense of community" within and adjacent to subdivisions. > Allow for non-residential uses along major roadway corridors. Arrange development sites to provide transitions between land use types and intensities. > Require stormwater ponds to serve multiple purposes and explore opportunities to include "low-impact development" techniques. > Apply open space and landscaping requirements to reduce the "heat island effect". 59 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 SUBURBAN COMMERCIAL CHARACTER AREA SUBURBAN CONTEXT Suburban Commercial character areas support auto- Representative Land Uses* dependent development patterns including multi- >> Commercial tenant shopping centers and office buildings, hotels, restaurants, small-scale offices, and light industrial uses. >> Office This character area is primarily situated along roadway > Multi-family and attached housing corridors or proximate to major intersections and may > Light industrial also support limited multi-family residential development where it serves as a transition between non-residential > Public facilities and other low- to medium-density residential land uses. Retail and service-oriented land uses are of a scale and *List of land use categories not exclusive. mix to cumulatively provide for the daily needs of large segments of the community. Development Considerations Example Imagery Suburban Commercial character areas are designed to serve the predominant and surrounding low-density residential neighborhoods. While auto-dominated in nature, general considerations for these areas include: > Evaluate opportunities to redevelop old commercial centers with new commercial, - residential, or park spaces. > Ensure transitions between commercial and adjacent residential areas. Require stormwater ponds to serve multiple purposes and explore opportunities to include "low impact development" techniques. Minimize parking area impervious surface requirements to better support sustainability and the uses of the property. > Evaluate open space and landscaping regpirememntstomtig.teimpemiousandirelaeche surfaces within development and reduce "heat island" effects. > Require consolidated access, rear access, frontage roads, or other types of connections to promote access management and maintain or improve traffic flow on adjacent thoroughfares. > Accommodate a wide range of uses, but ensure compatibility with surrounding areas and consistency in the character and scale of development. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 60 DRAFT 05.14.2025 URBAN GENERAL CHARACTER AREA URBAN CONTEXT Urban General character areas promote traditional Representative Land Uses* development patterns with a concentration of mixed > Single-family (attached and detached) land uses and a high degree of connectivity between and similar housing options residences and community destinations. Multiple land uses and development intensities are included in this > Multi-family housing character area, providing diverse housing choices, > Commercial retail options, and convenient access to professional > Office and medical services. These areas are designed at a pedestrian scale, with shallow setbacks, street-front > Mixed-use activation, multi-modal mobility options, and aesthetic Public facilities features that promote shared outdoor activity. *List of land use categories not exclusive. Development Considerations Urban General character areas provide opportunities to Example develop new mixed-use Imagery areas in the County. General considerations for these areas include: > Permit a diverse mix of single-family detached housing types including variations in lot sizes, build-to lines, and other spatial characteristics. > Promote higher development intensities along major thoroughfares. Limit drive-through and other auto-oriented uses to arterial roadways. > Provide transitions in development scale between the major thoroughfares and surrounding neighborhoods. > Transition between land uses at intersecting streets and alleys and avoid incompatible uses facing each other. > Place institutional facilities such as places of assembly, schools, and community buildings on urban street types that promote walkability. > Incorporate neighborhood/civic parks to provide access from all residential areas within a 1/4- mile walkshed. > Conceal non-residential and multi-family parking areas behind buildings. > Design roadways with large active roadsides for pedestrian activity. > Mantahandpomotestretridintecopectiwy and small block sizes. Example imagery includes images from outside Nassau County. 61 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 URBAN CENTER CHARACTER AREA URBAN CONTEXT Urban Center character areas promote the strategic Representative Land Uses* placement of development nodes where the Single-family (attached) and similar conveniences of daily life are accessible within close proximity to residences. A readily-accessible mix of housing options residential options, retail spaces, and professional Multi-family housing and medical services provide many of the amenities > Commercial necessary to live, work, play and stay. This character area is designed at a pedestrian scale, with shallow or > Office no setbacks, street-front activation, and a connected > Mixed-use mobility network. Urban centers incorporate aesthetic Public facilities and energy efficient design considerations for green infrastructure, plazas, and placemaking, and *List of land use categories not exclusive. are generally of higher density than Urban General character areas. Example Imagery Development Considerations Urban Center character areas are high-intensity nodes that serve both as active neighborhoods and regional destinations. General considerations for this character area include: > Permit a mix of civic, commercial (including professional office space), lodging, recreational, residential, and retail land uses. >> Construct mixed-use buildings with upper- floor residential and ground floor flex space for residential and non-residential uses. > Promote street grid interconnectivity and a functional system of alleys. > Design roadways with large active roadsides for pedestrian activity. > Provide maximum tree cover along pedestrian corridors and in association with public gathering spaces. > Conceal parking areas behind buildings and within structures. > Establish minimum building frontage requirements to frame the street and public spaces. >> Orient buildings to provide direct pedestrian access from street-facing facades. ( Example imagery includes images from outside Nassau County. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 62 DRAFT 05.14.2025 RURAL TOWN CHARACTER AREA SPECIAL CONTEXT Rural Town character areas represent preferred growth Representative Land Uses* areas for the towns of Hilliard and Callahan. These character areas support residential development > Single-family (attached and detached) and neighborhood commercial land uses that are and similar housing options contextually appropriate to the scale and needs of > Multi-family housing existing neighborhoods. Land use types and intensities > Commercial are: strategically mixed in a manner to promote a distinct community identity. > Office > Mixed-use Rural Town Successional Area: > Public facilities Rutureruraltownwithcommercial edge, to be developed *List of land use categories not exclusive. contemporaneously with the availability of water and sewer. Development of this area and new roadway corridors connecting US-1 to Old Dixie Highway will likely occur outside of the 2050 plan horizon. Example Imagery Development Considerations Rural Town character areas should supportt the expansion of municipal boundaries to seamlessly promote compatible growth around existing town sites. General considerations for these areas include: > Review and update land uses allowed within the ruraltown delineation to align with how each town envisions the growth around their municipal limits and allow for seamless annexations consistent with the desired growth character. > Create annexation/joint planning policies for growth within the Rural Town boundary. > Ensure transitions from lower density to higher density and mixed-use areas within the rural town. > Evaluate development regulations to allow for CALLAHAN a mixture of housing types, non-residential land uses, and diverse lot sizes to promote compatible infill development. 63 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 EMPLOYMENT CENTER CHARACTER AREA SPECIAL CONTEXT Employment Center character areas accommodate Representative Land Uses* large land uses of regional significance including > Commercial business or industrial parks, government and institutional campuses, and transportation and utility > Office facilities. These character areas provide space to > Industrial attract new business development and create direct jobs that support the long-term economic vitality > Warehousing of the County. While the use and scale of some > Civic and institutional types of Employment Centers may not support > Transportation pedestrian activity, all should promote efficient transportation connectivity and access, incorporate > Public facilities green infrastructure, and respect and connect to *List of land use categories not exclusive. surrounding natural areas. Development Considerations Example Imagery Employment Center design will vary based on the type of industry classifications they provide and the necessary scale and arrangement of applicable uses. It will be important to ensure the Employment Center design provides for compatibility and transitional scale to protect surrounding property values. General considerations for this character area include: mmn > Ensure appropriate siting, buffers, and scale standards for more intensive employment centers (e.g., industrial uses). > Evaluate access, parking, and other standards to create multiple ways to access employment areas to distribute traffic and deter from creating a' "sea of parking." > Work with large employers to evaluate opportunities for accessory: services or residential development within or adjacent to institutional or business campuses. > Require stormwater ponds to serve multiple purposes and explore opportunities to include low impact development techniques within developments. > Evaluate open space and landscaping requirements to provide places to walk and be outside during breaks, and to also help soften the impact of more intense buildings and facilities. - Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 64 DRAFT 05.14.2025 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY 65 Vision 2050Nossou County, Florida DRAFT 05. 42025 Why Use Growth SCENARIO FEEDBACK Scenario Modeling? The three scenarios (Trend, Incremental, and Think Big) were presented to the Nassau Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), municipal Growth scenario modeling encourages transparent leaders, the Plan Advisory Committee (PAC), and inclusive decision-making. It involves residents, and to the public at an open house event. businesses, and policymakers to ensure that diverse Corresponding scenario maps were available perspectives are considered. Overall, scenario for input at the Tree Lighting Ceremony. An modeling helps the community plan for development online survey included the maps and short while aiming to improve quality of life, economic videos describing each scenario to solicit and health, and environmental sustainability. It leads to collect additional public feedback. more comprehensive and widely supported growth strategies and frameworks. The growth scenario survey ran fromNovember 2024 to early January 2025, receiving 116 The growth scenario models were created by responses. Each survey asked respondents to conducting community conversations and reviewing react to each of the scenarios and rate each existing data to analyze potential development on a scale from 1 (strong dislike) to 5 (strong patterns. The process used opportunity and like). The average rating is presented for each constraint variables to identify which areas of the scenario on subsequent pages. County may be most suitable forfuture development. Three scenarios were created to display different levels of growth: > Trend Scenario which models replicating existing development patterns; strong strong > Incremental Scenario which models growth dislike like by utilizing infill and existing development patterns; and > Think Big Scenario which models how growth e happens though concentrating growth around employment centers. S The three growth scenarios were then evaluated using public feedback and a fiscal analysis to evaluate the economic impact of various land use choices. Pages 67-70 describe each scenario based on its: > Development parameters used to create the scenario; >> A map identifying the context areas to highlight programmed development areas; > The scenario rating from the Growth Scenarios Survey; > Anticipated alignment with the community's Building Blocks; and, ML > Pros and cons derived from data and analysis, planning practice, and community input. VTTE a TERS Vision 2050 Nassau County. Florida 66 DRAFT 05.14.2025 GROWTH SCENARIO 1: TREND The Trend Scenario assumes a reactive approach to planning. It represents a potential future where growth within the William Burgess District (WBD), Timber to Tides Overlay District (T2T), and the infill parcels around Yulee do not achieve their full potential. In this scenario,most development west of 1-95 is concentrated along major roadways. Key Parameters: > Growth is decentralized, spreading westward along major Legend roadway corridors Municipa/Development Area Boundary Vision 2050 Character Areas Natural & Conservation. Areas > Single-family residential and County Boundary Rural large lot residential are the Waterways Rural Town Wetlands Suburban Residential primary housing types : Polential Roadway Corridor Areas Suburban Commerçial Mobilily Plan Roads Urban General > Strip commercial development a New Inferchange Urban Center is prominent +++ Railroad Employment Center > Conservation efforts along major FIGURE 4.4 Growth Scenario 1 - Trend roadways are limited GROWTH SCENARIO 1 ALIGNMENT WITH BUILDING BLOCKS2 TABLE 4.5 Trend Scenario Building Block Matrix? Pros: > Consistent with existing development REDUCED NO IMPROVED patterns BUILDING BLOCK ALIGNMENT CHANGE ALIGNMENT > Places less development pressure east AUTHENTICITY of 1-95 BALANCE Cons: CONNECTMVITY > Loss of community identity/small- GOVERNANCE townfeel ) Less incentive to conserve additional HOUSING open space LIVABILITY > Reduced ability for multi-modal travel OPPORTUNITY >> More land consumed for development, RESILIENCY requiring much higher infrastructure investment This scenario generally reflects a lack > Reduction in agricultural land of alignment with the County's building blocks. Pros and cons associated with >> More development westward resulting 2.2* in loss of rural and conservation lands the scenario are listed to the right. AVERAGE RATING FROM GROWTH SCENARIOS SURVEY' 1 The growth scenarios were presented during community meetings and an online survey for input. The rating indicates the average score for how favorable the scenario is on a scale from 1 to 5 stars. Survey responses can be found in Appendix C: Community Engagement. 2. Building block descriptions can be found on page 49. 67 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 GROWTH SCENARIO 2: INCREMENTAL The Incremental Scenario focuses first on infill within Yulee, the WBD, and T2T. There is still a westward expansion of growth, especially along I-95, near Jacksonville, and around Nassau's emerging employment centers. Smaller commercial centers are accessible throughout the County to provide services to residents. Key Parameters: > Infill and redevelopment Legend proximate to Yulee at various 6 Municip/Develpmen! Vision 2050 Character Areas scales and densities consistent Area Counly Boundary Boundary Natural & Conservation Areas Rural with T2T and WBD transects Waterways Rural Town Wellands Suburban Residential > Commercial and large-lot Potential Roadway Corridor Areas Suburban Commercial Mobilily Plan Roads Urban General residential are decentralized C Newl Interchange Urban Center west of I-95 ++ Railroad Employment Center > Employment centers with developed housing and services FIGURE 4.5 Growth Scenario 2 - Incremental in close proximity GROWTH SCENARIO 2 ALIGNMENT WITH BUILDING BLOCKS? TABLE 4.6 Incremental Scenario Building Block Matrix? Pros: > Implements key County plans REDUCED NO IMPROVED in defined BUILDING BLOCK Encourages growth ALIGNMENT CHANGE ALIGNMENT areas AUTHENTICITY Facilitates multi-modal transportation east of I-95 BALANCE > Mixture of housing types near CONNECTIVITY employment centers GOVERNANCE HOUSING Cons: > Loss of community identity/ LIVABILITY small-town feel west of I-95 OPPORTUNITY > Less incentive to conserve RESILIENCY additional open space > More land consumed for The scenario generally reflects no development west of I-95 change and improved alignment with > Reduction in agricultural land the County's building blocks. Pros and 2.2* cons associated with the scenario are AVERAGE RATING > More development in Yulee listed to the right. FROM GROWTH increases traffic on SR-200 SCENARIOS SURVEY 1. The growth scenarios were presented during community meetings and an online survey for input. The rating indicates the average score for how favorable the scenario is on a scale from 1 to 5 stars. Survey responses can be found in Appendix C: Community Engagement. 2. Building block descriptions can be found on page 49. Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida 68 DRAFT 05.14.2025 GROWTH SCENARIO 3: THINK BIG The Think Big Scenario consolidates development around the planned I-95 interchange, near Crawford Diamond, around the towns, and within the WBD. Small-scale commercial centers would be strategically placed at key intersections throughout the County to support nearby residential neighborhoods. Key Parameters: > Growth is concentrated within Legend specified context areas Municip/Development Vision 2050 Character Areas Area Boundary Conservation-focused areas County Boundary Natural & Conservation Areas are clearly established mm: Waterways Rural Rural Town Wetlands Suburban Residential Encourages development Polential Roadway Corridor Areas Suburban Commercial where live, work, play and stay e New Mobility Interchange Plan Roads Urban Urban General Center land uses are built in +++ Railroad Employment Center FIGURE 4.6 Growth Scenario 3 - Think Big GROWTH SCENARIO 3 ALIGNMENT WITH BUILDING BLOCKS2 TABLE 4.7 Think Big Scenario Building Block Matrix? Pros: Implements key County plans REDUCED NO IMPROVED BUILDING BLOCK > Encourages growth in defined ALIGNMENT CHANGE ALIGNMENT areas AUTHENTICITY > With closer proximity between BALANCE developed areas, facilitates multi-modal transportation in CONNECTIVITY many areas of the County GOVERNANCE Mixture of housing types near employment centers HOUSING Employmentlbusiness hubs LIVABILITY with a variety of services OPPORTUNITY support RESILIENCY Cons: The scenario generally reflects > Greater intensity development improved alignment with the County's is not appealing in western building blocks. Pros and cons Nassau 2.8* AVERAGE RATING associated with the scenario are listed FROM GROWTH > Less open space within the to the right. more developed areas SCENARIOS SURVEY' 1.1 The growth scenarios were presented during community meetings and an online survey for input. The rating indicates the average score for how favorable the scenario is on a scale from 1 to 5 stars. Survey responses can be found in Appendix C: Community Engagement. 2. Building block descriptions can be found on page 49. 69 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Vision 2050 Growth Plan The Vision 2050 Growth Plan represents the preferred growth scenario for Nassau County. Development is focused in areas with planned or existing public infrastructure, incorporates additional conservation areas, and includes small commercial centers around Nassau County to improve access to services. Key Parameters: Legend > Focused growth within the Area Municipa/Development Boundary Vision 2050 Character Areas Natural & Conservation Areas identified growth areas County Boundary Rural Waterways Rural Town > Additional conservation land Wellands Suburban Residential established Potential Roadway Corridar Areas Suburban Commercial Mobilily Plan Roads Urban General > More urban development e New Interchange Urban Center +++ Railroad Employment Center patterns with a mixture of uses to encourage live, work, play, FIGURE 4.7 Preferred Growth Scenario and stay options PREFERRED SCENARIO ALIGNMENT WITH BUILDING BLOCKS2 TABLE 4.8 Preferred Scenario Building Block Matrix? Pros: > Implements key County plans REDUCED NO IMPROVED defined areas BUILDING BLOCK Encourages growth in ALIGNMENT CHANGE ALIGNMENT > Facilitates multi-modal transportation AUTHENTICITY > Mixture of housing types near BALANCE employment centers CONNECTIVITY > Employmentbusiness hubs with a variety of services support GOVERNANCE > Greater areas of conservation west HOUSING of 1-95 LIVABILITY > Maintains rural areas and agricultural lands OPPORTUNITY RESILIENCY Cons: > Greater intensity development is not The scenario generally reflects improved alignments with the County's appealing in western Nassau building blocks. Pros and cons associated with the scenario are listed to the right. Less open space within the more developed areas 1. The growth scenarios were presented to the community in the form of community meetings and an on-line survey. The rating represents a neutral response to the scenario. 2. Building block descriptions can be found on page 49. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 70 DRAFT 05.14.2025 PAGE LEFT PLAMKIRTENTIONALY - 71 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida - : E a € - I I I F - i E - T - E 1 8 I E - I I I I I : I I & D & 0 9 I ! I I 3 € E / $ e I 7 I I a E I I 3 1 à 8 a a E $ I I 6 I I N $ I I I I 3 - 1 I I E I : : I I : 3 T B I : 1 E F 9 I de L I E 1 A $ I I : de I I I - E - L - 8 a de E NW € 8 5 g * € E - I : $ E # $ I I à i I I N @ I £ 6 I e E 8 : I I le I $ I E E E I I e B E F E 7 - 1 I I I I I e I I I E B I 3 I ? I f I € I E E à A E I I $ I 2 e a N 1 o 3 D a 8 V 4 a 6 - r EE 4 N 5 N J 2 a e de a 5 8 8 a 2 E - 8 3 - a e 00 a - 8 a u - 2 I la 1 6 S : DRAFT 05.14.2025 Special Planning Existing development in the Town of Callahan Areas The overarching purpose of the vision plan process is to create a blueprint or framework for the growth of the community. This plan aims to improve the quality of life E for allcountyresidentsand balance social, environmental, and economic needs to create a vital and sustainable communityfor generations to come. The vision plan uses high-level character areas that cannot provide all of the refined details needed to guide implementation. Many of these details should be fleshed out during subsequent processes such as developing the comprehensive plan, strategic planning, land development code updates, and Green space in the Town of Hilliard sub-area planning efforts. This section identifies the overarching community direction for the major employment centers and growth areas. These areas provide the County with the greatest opportunity to direct growth through land use policies, zoning regulations, strategies, infrastructure investments, and considerations for environmental conservation. They also incorporate economic development initiatives and cultural and recreational enhancement considerations. As shown on Figure 4.13 (page 77, left) and as discussed below, these special planning areas include: > Yulee Large commercial centers in Yulee > New 1-95 Interchange > Joint Planning Areas > Crawford Diamond Employment Center > ICI Villages Employment Center Undeveloped area of Crawford Diamond Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida 76 DRAFT 05.14.2025 : EHEF - - - FIGURE 4.12 William Burgess District Rendering FIGURE 4.13 Sheriff's Office Redevelopment Rendering (Figure 4.15 Rendering Source: SR-200/A1A Corridor Master Plan) 77 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 YULEE The Yulee Area includes several small area planning effortsincluding: thel William! Burgess District (WBD), the Timber to Tides Master Plan (T2T), and the East Nassau Community Planning Area (ENCPA). These areas are regulated by development programs and are intended to create new districts with a true "sense of place" and "sense of community". The future of these areas includes connected roadways, trail and bicycle connections, a diversity BASE of uses, and interconnected social spaces. Figure 4.14 (left, page 77) is an example rendering of new development along William Burgess Boulevard. Within the WBD, the regulations require development to interact with the pedestrian realm, creating a safe and walkable environment. Mixed- use buildings provide a range of services and establishments within close distance of homes. A system of parks and trails create a connected network of public spaces for playing, exploring, and socializing. The WBD is envisioned as a complete community, offering a high quality of life and opportunities to live, work, play, and stay. Redevelopment and infill of existing shopping SMALL SCALE centers along the SR-200 corridor can be explored at different scales, depending on the preferred development type. The example graphics on the right side of the page illustrate various scales of suburban retrofitting. > Small-scale infill may include outparcel development and standard residential development. Activation of the stormwater pond with trails provides access to passive recreation. > Medium-scale infill may include the redevelopment of the shopping center with pedestrian scale buildings, tree-lined streets, and more diverse housing options. MEDIUM SCALE Additional recreational enhancements to the stormwater pond provide recreation and passive spaces for residents and visitors. Large-scale infill illustrates the redevelopment of the shopping center to a mixed-use node with higher density residential, office, institutional, and commercial spaces fronting along tree- lined streets. Open spaces are built into the fabric of the center, with parks, plazas, and other public spaces. LARGE SCALE FIGURE 4.14 Suburban Infill Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 78 DRAFT 05.14.2025 NEW 1-95 INTERCHANGE EMPLOYMENT CENTER The new 1-95 interchange between US-17 and SR-200 presents a unique opportunity to create a regional activity center that complements the growth within the East Nassau Community Planning Area (ENCPA). As a greenfield development, this area is essentially a blank slate with the potential to shape Nassau County's future for generations. With plans for expanded potable water and sewer infrastructure, the area can support large- scale development. Its strategic location along I-95, combndwhparedicsds, connections to Callahan Example of how to create a walkable built and Yulee, further enhances its growth potential. environment, with streets fronting the roadways, a mixture of uses, a connected mobility network, and The vision for the 1-95 interchange is a high-intensity tree lined streets with programmed open space. and high-density regional employment and activity center that provides a wide range of jobs, housing, retail, dining and hospitality-related uses. It is intended that this area will provide an opportunity for diverse retail, employment, and mixed-use destinations at critical intersections to create denser, value-intensive development. In a changing retail environment, this center should be designed as a community destination with activities, amenities, shopping, restaurants and places to gather, live and work. Missing middle housing options should be available within the area and along its periphery. This will allow for greater access to housing close to employment areas. Internal circulation will be critical to the long-term success of the area. Managing access and traffic will require planning and coordination. An interconnected Large-scale developments such as corporate network of roads and trails should be developed offices, office parks, service/repair, light industry, to create a "park and walk" environment, allowing lean assembly: facilities, and similar uses can be the people to easily access amenities and services. dominant activities in this area. Retail, restaurant, Special attention should be given to strengthening and residential uses serving the campus industrial connections between non-residential developments uses could also be included. and surrounding neighborhoods. Roadways should utilize more urban cross-sections within the core employment area but may have more suburban design characteristics where appropriate outside of core development areas. The area should be developed with forward-thinking policies and practices that allow for the adaptability of buildings, low-impact development techniques, and other principles that help to protect the area for future generations. Wetlands and floodplains can provide natural delineation of development and provide extensive buffers between uses. Open spaces should serve multiple purposes, including stormwater management, green spaces, places for exploration and social interaction, and enhanced connectivity. Activated spaces should blend the urban environment Large-scale uses serving a regional market, such as with nature and provide for the enjoyment and use of corporate offices, office parks, hotels and resorts, the outdoor spaces as buffers between uses. retail, entertainment, restaurants, and similar uses will help create a central business district. 79 Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 CRAWFORD DIAMOND EMPLOYMENT CENTER The Crawford Diamond Employment Center offers an opportunity to provide the County with a range of industry-related jobs. Its strategic proximity to rail infrastructure should be leveraged to promote industrial 701 developmentAdatonaly, the areawlreguresupporting amazo, services, such as commercial, office, and other related uses, to ensure a well-rounded environment that can grow in a sustainable manner. Small area planning around the Crawford Diamond can be used to accommodate growth and development in an area experiencing great development pressure from northwest Jacksonville. Shipping and distribution centers are employment Focused growth in this area can help support the preservation of rural character elsewhere. options that provide a range of job opportunities. As the central area is designated for industrial uses, it is assumed that the area will support a range of employers. Aside fromt the area already designated. as industrial, there will be additional uses to support employment in this area. This may include commercial nodes with a variety of services, as well as residential areas with appropriate buffers and distances between the industrial uses. Surrounding the industrial center there may be other non-commercial uses to support employment needs. Located along the CSX and Norfolk Southern rail lines and US-301, the area offers access to national shipping networks. Circulation will be crucial for successful movement around the area and should provide access not only within the employment center but to other areas of the County. A mixture of roadways and trails should be used to facilitate multi-modal access. Environmental features can be preserved within Trails along roadways and through greenways should provide enhanced regional access to employment developments to improve open spaces and enhance areas. To protect the rural nature of surrounding areas, aesthetics.. new roadways providing regional access should be designed with access management and desired rural character in mind. The natural environment should be preserved wherever possible. Given the extensive network of wetlands and floodplains within the area, the long-term environmental health of the county must protect these vital ecosystems. Additionally, connected parks and open spaces should be integrated throughout the entire Crawford Diamond Employment Center to enhance both environmental sustainability and quality of life. PANDA Low-impact development should be included in all development within the employment center. Commercial and residential uses near the Crawford Diamond industrial complex will complement and support larger employers. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 80 DRAFT 05.14.2025 ICI VILLAGES The ICI villages is an industrial and mixed-use development area along US-90 and near I-10. With its proximity to the interstate and along the border with Duval County, it is a logical location for industrial development. Supporting services, such as commercial and retail, should be provided near the industrial complex to provide resources for employees. The development has the opportunity to be another gateway to Nassau County mimicking the way Yulee has grown off the I-95. and A1A corridors. With the expansion of water and sewer to the area, the employment center should be buffered from residential development at Retention ponds can help manage stormwater runoff varying scales and intensities. Providing a range of by collecting and storing excess rainwater, reducing services and including affordable mult-generational the risk of flooding. It also improves water would quality by housing create opportunities for families to allowing sediments and pollutants to settle before relocate to the area for work in the employment centers while also the water is released into the environment. maintaining a high quality of life. While this area provides unique growth potential for the County, the natural environment should be preserved wherever possible to allow for habitat corridor connectivity and buffer zones between land uses. Given the extensive network of wetlands and floodplains within the area, the long-term environmental health of the County is reliant on areas like this to provide critical recharge and conservation benefits. Developing the area with adequate conservation areas can also create the opportunity for trail systems to be created to enhance walkability and recreation. Waterwise plantings and low- impact development design should be included when developing properties in this area of the County. Surface parking areas allow parking for a mix of Furthermore, engaging local communities and utility trucks, workers and visitors alike. They also stakeholdersinthe planning processis essentialto ensure allow for the use of more pervious materials and that the development meets the needs of both current and future residents. Collaborative efforts can help other low-impact development techniques. identify areas requiring protection and enhancement, ensuring a balance between growth and conservation. Public consultations and regular updates can foster transparency and trust, making the development a model of sustainable progress. Additionally, adopting green building standards and investing in renewable energy sources can set a precedent for environmentaly- conscious growth, attracting like-minded businesses and contributing to the overall well-being of the region. Deep setbacks and large buffers can separate the more developed areas from surrounding properties in industrial-based areas. 81 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14 2025 JOINT PLANNING AREAS Three municipalities lie within Nassau County the City of Fernandina Beach, the Town of Callahan, and the Town of Hilliard. Development and policies for the unincorporated areas surrounding the municipalities should be congruent with the needs and plans for each individual area, Amelia Island Joint Planning Area Currently, the municipal limits on Amelia Island create enclaves of City and County lands that do not always seamlessly flow together. For example, the County maintains some roadways that are fully within the jurisdiction of the City. A joint planning area between unincorporated Nassau County and the City of Fernandina Beach should be established to allow for the cohesive annexation of parcels and infrastructure into the City. Callahan Joint Planning Area Callahan is experiencing growth pressure from industrial and employment areas in northwest Jacksonville. Much of the development in the unincorporated areas around the town includes single-family on large lots, agriculture, and silviculture. As development pressure continue to increase, alternative growth patterns will need to be considered tol better support the daily needs ofresidents, including a diversity of housing options, more services, and employment opportunities. There are environmental challenges around the town with flooding, low-lying areas, and wetlands. Through the comprehensive planning process, the County and the Town of Callahan can plan out future land uses and design policies. Hilliard Joint Planning Area The Town of Hilliard lies in the northwest portion of Nassau County. The northern extent of the County is bordered by the Saint Mary's River. Much of the land along the river has been identified as the "Atlantic to Okefenokee Corridor" (A20) and is important for long- term conservation efforts. To best support conservation efforts around the Town, the County will needi to identify opportunities to support growth near the town and discourage growth towards environmentally sensitive areas. With its distance from Callahan and Yulee, additional utility and infrastructure services would support future growth and development around Hilliard. With the comprehensive planning process, the County will need to work with Hilliard to determine how growth within the unincorporated areas should occur to support the long-term vitality of the Town and County. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 82 DRAFT 05.14.2025 Roadway Elements Arterials MOBILITY VERSUS ACCESS Greater focus MOBILITY on mobility Atanspontatonystemhas a direct impact ont the quality of life and economic potential of a community. There Low degree are two main functions of a transportation system; the of access first is to provide mobility and the second is to provide access. Mobility is best defined as the ability for people and goods to be moved efficiently, while access allows people and goods the ability to enter or exit the system Collectors or property. These are competing functions that must Balance be balanced depending on the unique needs of an area. between A well-designed and coordinated transportation system mobility and provides multiple modes of mobility to ensure residents access and visitors can move in and through a city safely and with ease. As shown in Figure 4.17, each thoroughfare provides Local Streets differing levels of mobility and access (arterials, > Lesser focus collectors, and local streets). Mobility and access have on mobility an inverse relationship, where streets that have greater High degree mobility typically have less access, and vice versa. ACCESS of access Streets that prioritize mobility (e.g., major collectors and arterials) are designed for faster speeds and greater traffic volumes. Conversely, streets that prioritize access (e.g., local streets) maximize ingress and egress to the FIGURE 4.15 Mobility Versus Access network over mobility. When the mobility system works well, movements go largely unnoticed and enhance the area's economic appeal and quality of life. When the system fails, even simple movement leads to frustration and a perceived lower quality of life. This not only applies to vehicles, but also to walking, biking, transit, and other non-vehicular mobility options. There is an understanding that the visual quality and type of development along roadway corridors also contributes to the overall aesthetics of an area. Visual appeal may have a direct impact on whether al business or person may want to locate in an area. As a result, there is increased attention to the design of roadways sO that it either A.) minimizes the impact on, or B.) enhances the character of, the adjacent properties. When a mobility system meets the needs of all users, improves efficiency, and feels safe, it is oftentimes called a Complete Street. County Road 108 is a major collector in the northern part of the County. It provides access to Hilliard for vehicular mobility but currently lacks pedestrian infrastructure. 83 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 COMPLETE STREETS Complete Streets embody a transportation policy The design of Complete Streets is comprised of and design approach that requires streets to be elements that accommodate the diverse needs of all planned, designed, operated, and maintained to enable users, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and, safe, convenient, and comfortable travel for users when applicable, public transit users. The specific design of all ages and abilities, regardless of their mode of elements of a Complete Street include: transportation. Complete Streets allow for safe travel by those walking, bicycling, driving automobiles, riding public transportation, or delivering goods. From FDOT's Context Classification Guide, "Complete Streets means putting the right road in the right place." Sidewalks. Wide and accessible Bike Accommodations. Dedicated Crosswalks. Clearly marked sidewalks, buffered from on street bike lanes or sidepaths and well-designed crosswalks the roadway provide a safe create a safer environment for enhance pedestrian safety when and comfortable space for biking and other alternative crossing streets. pedestrians. modes of transportation. Cas Traffic Calming Measures. Street Amenities. Benches, trash Accessible Design. Curb Features such as curb extensions, bins, lighting, and other amenities ramps, tactile paving, and other roundabouts, and narrowed lanes contribute to a more comfortable features ensure that the street slow down vehicle speeds and and inviting urban environment. is accessible to people with improve safety. disabilities. Green Infrastructure. Trees and Smart Street Technology. Complete Intersections. natural landscaping contribute Integration of technology for traffic intersection designs, such as to aesthetics, reduce the urban management, pedestrian signais, roundabouts prioritize the safety heat island effect, and improve ando other smart features enhance and efficiency of all modes of environmental. sustainability. safety and efficiency. transportation. D Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 84 DRAFT 05.14.2025 ROADWAY CONTEXT Consistent with the Vision 2050 Growth Plan Strategy, roadway context serves as the basis upon which Nassau may build a transportation network that compliments development of varying character and intensity. Roadway design features should be determined by the context of an area. The three roadway context configurations include rural roadways, suburban roadways, and urban roadways and are illustrated in Figure 4.18. Rural roadways are designed for mobility in areas with low development densities that do not rely on urban services (e.g. water, sewer), and that have limited access to nearby commercial or industrial uses. The roadways in these areas should be designed withl low-impact design (LID). standards in mind. Suburban roadways typically prioritize higher traffic volumes and have historically favored motor-vehicle travel with little accommodation for alternative modes of transportation. However, as suburban areas develop, more focus should be put to designing for safe speeds and access for pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users. Urban roadways provide comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environments for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users, and motorists. Roadways in urban areas should include targeted locations where activated roadsides serve as a public gathering space, in addition to their inherent transportation purposes. EE Tables 4.9 through 4.11, on pages 88 through 90, provide additional ISHREETIS maeR design guidance for each of these I roadway context types. Guidance E L is informed by FDOT Roadway BUREREH Design Standards. ARRa FIGURE 4.16 Example of Roadway Configurations 85 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 TABLE 4.9 Rural Context Areas: Roadway Features Street Design Element Local Road Collector Road Arterial Road FUNCTION Functional Role Rural property Connects arterials Connects to major access and local streets arterials Streetway Continuity Generally Continuous between Cross-city discontinuous, arterials connectivity connects to rural (C2) collectors Right-of-Way 60 ft min 60 ft min 60 -100 ft Maximum Speed Limit 25 - 30 mph 30- 40 mph 40- 45 mph Traffic Volume (Average Daily Trips) <1,000 1,000-5,000 1,000-10,000 STREETWAY Travel Lanes 2 lane, 10 ft 2 lane, 10ft 2lane, 11 ft Turn Lanes None None Optional Decel Lanes None None Optional On-Street Parking No No No Curb and Gutter No No No Stormwater Swale Swale Swale Median No No No Bikeway Not designated Not designated No Traffic Calming Not recommended Not recommended Optional Designed for Transit No No No STREETSIDE Sidewalk/Path 61 ft min/ 10 ft 6ft min / 10 ft 6ftr min/ 10 ft preferred preferred preferred Edge Zone Natural Natural Natural Street Trees/Landscaping None None None Residential Driveways Permitted Permitted Permitted Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida 86 DRAFT05.14.2025 TABLE 4.10 Suburban Context Areas: Roadway Features Street Design Element Local Road Collector Road Arterial Road FUNCTION Functional Role Property access Connects arterials and Cross-city mobility local streets Streetway Continuity Generally Continuous between Cross-city discontinuous, arterials connectivity connects to rural (C3) collectors Right-of-Way 50 ft min 60 ft min 80 ft min Maximum Speed Limit 25 mph 30 - 35 mph 35 - 40 mph Traffic Volume (Average Daily Trips) <1000 1,000-20,000 1,000-30,000 STREETWAY Travel Lanes 21 lane, 91 ft 2 - 4 lanes, 10 ft 2 - 4 lanes, 10 ft Turn Lanes None Optional Yes Decel Lanes None Optional Yes On-Street Parking Permitted Typically restricted but No may be appropriate in certain areas Curb and Gutter Yes Yes Yes Stormwater Subsurface Subsurface Subsurface storm drain storm drain storm drain Median Not recommended Medians may be Medians are intended appropriate to improve to manage turning aesthetics and traffic movements and access calming to provide refuge for pedestrian and landscaping Bikeway Not designated On-street 4 ft bike lane Shared -use paths (Shared Lanes at or shared- S 25mph) use paths Traffic Calming Optional Yes Yes Designed for Transit Optional Yes Yes STREETSIDE Sidewalk/Path 61 ft min/ 10 ft 6ft min/ 10 ft 6ft min/ 10 ft Preferred Preferred Preferred Edge Zone Yes, 3 -5ft Yes, 3 -5ft Yes, 4 - 5ft Street Trees/Landscaping Shade trees in Shade trees and/ Shade trees and/ edge zones or ornamental trees or ornamental trees in median and edge in median and edge zones, as appropriate zones, as appropriate Residential Driveways Permitted Infl/redevelopment Infillredevelopment appropriate; prohibited appropriate; prohibited for new development for new development 87 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05. 14.2025 TABLE 4.11 Urban Context Areas: Roadway Features Street Design Element Local Road Collector Road Arterial Road FUNCTION Functional Role Provides access Provides access from Cross-city mobility to traditional traditional residential residential areas areas to downtown Streetway Continuity Interconnected urban Interconnected urban Cross-city grid; alley access grid; alley access connectivity Right-of-Way 50 ft min 60 ft min 80 ft min Maximum Speed Limit 25 mph 25 - 30 mph 30 - 35 mph Traffic Volume (Average Daily Trips) <1000 1,000-20,000 1,000-30,000 STREETWAY Travel Lanes 2 lane, 9f ft 2- 4 lanes, 91 ft 2- 4 lanes, 10 ft Turn Lanes None Optional Yes Decel Lanes None Optional Yes On-Street Parking Permitted; both sides Permitted; limited by No of street with parallel presence of bike and parking pedestrian facilities and available ROW Curb and Gutter Yes Yes Yes Stormwater Subsurface Subsurface Subsurface storm drain storm drain storm drain Median Optional Medians may be Medians are intended appropriate to to manage turning improve aesthetics movements and and traffic calming access to provide refuge for pedestrian and landscaping Bikeway Not designated Separate lanes Separate lanes (shared lanes at S 25mph) Traffic Calming Optional Optional Typically restricted, but may be appropriate in certain areas Designed for Transit Preferred Yes Yes STREETSIDE Sidewalk/Path 6ft min/ 10 ft 6ft min/ 10 ft 6ft min/ 10 ft Preferred preferred preferred Edge Zone Yes, 4 -6ft Yes, 4 - 10 ft Yes, 4 - 10ft Street Trees/Landscaping Shade trees in Shade trees and/ Shade trees and/ edge zones or ornamental trees or ornamental trees in median and edge in median and edge zones, as appropriate zones, as appropriate Residential Driveways Permitted Prohibited Prohibited Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 88 DRAFT05.14.2025 FUTURE TRANSPORTATION CONNECTIONS Parallel Routes To address growing concerns related The development of alternative routes to SR-200 is to mobility within the region, it is essential for alleviating the traffic congestion that essential to plan and develop new currently impacts this vital corridor. SR-200 serves as roadway corridors and mobility the primary connection between Western Nassau and connections. This includes the the services in Yulee and Amelia Island, making it one of creation of east/west connections the most! heavily traveledi roadways in the area. While US- that run parallel to SR-200, the 1, US-301/SR-200, US-17, and I-95 provide key north- construction of a Callahan bypass south access throughout the County, they each face to alleviate congestion, multi-modal challenges. Aside from I-95, these routes pass through connections to provide alternative towns, encounter railroad crossings, and in the case of mobility options, and substantial US-17, ,may not be able to accommodate future capacity improvements to the railway demands. As the population continues to grow and new infrastructure. Inaddition,enhancing developments are planned, it will become increasingly regional access will be a key priority critical to identify and implement alternative routes to to ensure smoother travel across relieve pressure on major roadways. Proper planning different areas of the County. These for these alternative routes will support both current proposed transportation options and future transportation needs, promoting long-term are designed to provide alternative sustainability and economic vitality. routes and improve the flow of traffic and connectivity between Notable paraliel corridors to SR-200 include the 108 various communities. By expanding Extension, a new I-95 interchange, and an 1-95 overpass. the network of roads and increasing The CR-108 extension will run through the ENCPA, transit options, residentsand visitors connecting the existing roadway to Chester Road. will have greater flexibility and This major roadway is planned to include multi-modal efficiency in accessing community facilities and will provide access to other roadways destinations, ultimately supporting within the ENCPA. A new 1-95 interchange will connect regional growth and improving to the CR-108 extension within the ENCPA and will also quality of life. connect west to Middle Road. To the south of SR-200, an overpass from William Burgess Boulevard to Semper Figure 4.19 on page 92 graphically Fi willl help to reduce congestion at critical intersections, depicts a roadway network to enhance overall traffic flow, and improve access for enhance mobility connections for residents and commuters alike. vehicular and rail options in the County for future considerations West of I-95, a network of north-south and east- with growth and development. This west roads will be developed to form a larger "grid" includes key parallel corridors, the of roadways, improving connections and addressing Callahan by-pass, and future rail mobility concerns before they arise. This plan includes corridors to connect to the region the road extending from the new I-95 interchange, as and provide alternative access to well as north-south roads linking SR-200 to CR-108. For Amelia Island. the new roads planned west of 1-95, it will be essential to design them in a way that reflects the area's character, incorporating rural road designs where appropriate and urban designs where necessary. 89 Vision 2050 Nassou Counfy, Florido DRAFT 05.14.2025 wI 00 ba e I: * 301 : Legend S Potential Roadways - - Mobility Plan Roads # New Interchange Future Rail Corridor u 1 + Railroad FIGURE 4.17 Roadway Connections - Callahan By-Pass SR-200/US-301 and US-1 converge in Callahan, where The bypass must be designed to facilitate efficient the town's main shopping area is located. US-301 serves vehicle movement while limiting access to adjaçent as a key route connecting I-10 to I-95 and is frequently properties. An access-controlled roadway will support used by cargo and logging trucks as an alternative to ongoing economic development around Callahan. I-295. The combination of truck traffic and residential The design should prioritize environmental protection vehicles creates significant traffic congestion during and incorporate wide buffers with native vegetation peak hours. The creation of a truck bypass around to reduce stormwater runoff pollution. To safeguard Callahan would improve accessibility to local shopping the vitality of Callahan's business district, additional centers and community services, while also enhancing incentives, marketing efforts, and enhanced visibility safety for non-motorized users. However, a bypass may be necessary. Diverting truck traffic away from could result in reduced revenue for businesses that rely Callahan will enable roadway design to prioritize users in on pass-through traffic. It will be important to carefully the business district. consider these potential impacts. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 90 DRAFT 05.14.2025 Railway Connections The railroad has played a significant role in the While the railway presents opportunities for economic establishment of Nassau County, and its impact remains growth, it is important to recognize the challenges substantial today, with several active and abandoned it brings. Primarily, the rail lines cut through key rail lines across the region. Norfolk Southern, CSX, and areas of the County, obstructing traffic flow and Florida East Coast Railway continue to operate rail lines contributing to congestion. A notable example is throughout the County. These rail lines offer various the rail line crossing SR-200 at US-17, a critical benefits, starting with economic opportunities, which are intersection in Yulee. This intersection is planned to ideal for industrial development, particularly around the become an Urban Center in the future, therefore it Crawford Diamond: landWildlight Commerce Park. Through is crucial to consider the railway's alignment in this regional coordination, there is the potential to connect area when planning redevelopment. Modifying this commuter rail services to Jacksonville, enabling transit- intersection to eliminate the rail/vehicular conflicts oriented development at key points along the rail corridor. would be highly beneficial. By separating rail and This would also provide an alternative transportation vehicle traffic, the intersection could operate more option to major business centers in Jacksonville and the efficiently, enhancing mobility for both residents and broader region. visitors. To facilitate smooth traffic movement, future roadway designs, where feasible, should incorporate Although the development of commuter rail may be overpasses and underpasses for vehicular traffic to years away, it is essential to plan and reserve land for prevent delays caused by train crossings. future stations before it is developed. Additionally, a rail line already connects Yulee to Amelia Island, running over an Outstanding Florida Water (waters designated for special protection through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection) and primarily serving mills near of downtown Fernandina Beach. This existing rail line could be expanded to support passenger service, improving transit access to Fernandina Beach and enhancing connectivity to the island's major business district. Expanding transit options on Amelia Island could further reduce dependence on personal vehicles for both area employees and visitors, providing connections from the rail station to other key business areas and beaches. Abandoned rail lines could be repurposed into "rails-to- trails" projects, creating safe, off-road trail systems that connect different parts of the community. One such abandoned rail line, located on the north side of SR- 200, links Callahan to Wildlight. The new growth areas identified in the preferred development plan would greatly benefit from a multi-use trail connecting these An existing rail line that runs from Yulee onto Amelia two locations. Additionally, a diagonal rail line extending Island facilitates the delivery of to the mills Callahan goods from to CR-108 could connect to the river and operating outside of Downtown Fernandina Beach. the new I-95 interchange. A comprehensive off-road trail system would not only serve as a valuable multi-modal There may be an opportunity to explore connecting asset but could also help attract tourism and sporting Yulee to Fernandina through a rail-based commuter events, such as races, to the area. by partnering with existing rail lines in the future. This could alleviate some of the traffic from SR-200 while offering parking-free options to access Downtown Fernandina. 91 Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Transit oriented development (TOD) is centered around a major transit hub, such as a rail station or bus station. Generally, the area within a 15-minute walk to the station can be designed as a walkable, mixed-use district to support the use of the major transit network. Through vertically integratedb buildings, TOD's can achieve a greater amount ofresidentialunits while supporting diverse shopping, dining, and personal experiences. The design of a TOD node should include public spaces, interconnected roadways, a variety of housing options, and design that incorporates sustainable and resilient design practices. 4 Vision 264 Nassau Couoiy DRAFT 05.14.2025 Environmental Measures COMMUNITY CASE STUDIES The conservation of natural resources is critical for the long-term vitality and sustainability of Nassau County. The natural environment has played a significant role in Nassau's history, community development, and economy. Not only do natural spaces provide for parks andreveatonopportuntes, theyserve as spacestorefill water aquifers, support biodiversity, and enhance the overall sustainability of the environment. The continued support of parks and open spaces, conservation efforts, and enhanced stormwater management is an important element of Vision 2050. PARKS AND RECREATION Parks offer unique opportunities for social interaction, health and recreation, developing a sense of place, and environmental conservation. The County has The EPIC Center, a playground in Grand Prairie, established a strong foundation for a comprehensive Texas is a multi-use center and major community and connected parks and recreation system. To attraction. The facility includes a mult-generationd' ensure the ongoing success of the parks system, it center, hotels. restaurants, and an all-inclusive park is essential to prioritize parks planning and support and trail system. The Center provides opportunities implementation. The County's current Parks, for recreation for users of all ages and abilities. Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan, adopted in It also encourages play and provides over ten 2021, should guide park actions and be updated on a amenities and programmed areas. regular basis. Given the County's access to water resources, continued effortstoenhancewater-basedrecreationalopportunties: as noted in the County's Parks Plan, should be prioritized throughout the parks system. Improvements to existing County-maintained parks should also be a focus, as these spaces are already valued by the community but may have outdated structures and amenities. Additionally, new regional parks should be designed to accommodate both local activities and larger-scale sports and eco- tourism events, providing diverse recreational options for residents and visitors alike. Sports tourism may be promoted through the development of baseball and soccer parks that attract league play, with a focus on regional and multi-state competitions. With its proximityto Jacksonville, Georgia, and Alabama, Nassau is well positioned to attract multi- state regionaltoumaments. Event centers, racket courts, Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, Florida is a all-inclusive facilities, and multi-use centers provide for a large park that provides a variety of educational, range of activities. These types of parks and centers can exploratory, and playfule experiences. It includes also spur adjacent private investment including hotel a Children's Museum, a Nature Center, an Event development, commercial centers, and complementary Center, gardens, miles of traiis, playgrounds, and activity-based uses. This type of economic development hosts a variety of events. Venue rentals, camps. and vehicle can be utilized as Nassau County continues to admissions to the Museum create revenue sources grow and develop. for Lakeland. 93 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Lakes and stormwater ponds should be used to serve multiple purposes, including recreation, play, and stormwater management. AtM - / 4 Parks within urban areas may be designed as plazas and pocket parks to create open spaces and a reprieve from surrounding built spaces. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 94 DRAFT 05.14.2025 LAND CONSERVATION Nassau County is nestled between the St. Mary's River As the County continues to grow, preserving its to the north, Nassau River to the south, the Atlantic ecological resources will be crucial. To maintain the Ocean to the east, and acres of forest and agricultural connectivity of wetlands, protect property values, lands to the west. As a coastal and riverine County, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the it is highly vulnerable to coastal weather events and county's natural assets, it is essential to continue the flooding due to heavy rain events. The prevalence of CLAM program. This program offers vital funding to wetlands underscores its topography and susceptibility identify and acquire properties that provide high- to these occurrences. The impacts of storms and quality environmental resources and long-term recurrent flooding are already being felt, with significant ecological connections. consequencest for community health, safety, and welfare, as well as impacts to County infrastructure. Beyond Conservation Easements and the immediate effects on public health and safety, the County must address long-term resiliency needs to Partnerships ensure the community can adapt to future changing Given the rising cost of properties in a growing County, conditions. Land conservation efforts, particularly in key it is unrealistic to expect the CLAM Program to acquire ecological corridors, can be used to mitigate flooding all environmentally significant land. To address this impacts and preserve the County's environmental fabric. challenge, the County must collaborate with community organizations and engage property owners to explore With increasing growth pressures, it will be critical opportunities for additional conservation efforts. These to support land conservation and restore native efforts can include private conservation easements, vegetation and forests where possible. These efforts partnership acquisitions, and other strategies to protect can be done through: and preserve environmental resources. Conservation easements can land for > safeguard in perpetuity Continuing to implement and expand the uses such as agriculture, silviculture, and other Conservation Land Acquisition and Management low-intensity activities, like hunting, while limiting Program (CLAM); residential development. Continued collaboration with > Working with property owners and partners on organizations such as the North Florida Land Trust establishing conservation easements; will help identify and acquire properties that enhance Ensuring mitigation efforts to reconnect critical the connectivity of critical environmental resources, ecological systems; and, particularly those linking the Atlantic Ocean to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, known as the A20 > Continuing to expand policies and standards Conservation Corridor. that protect environmental resources. Figure 4.20 on page 98 illustrates key natural and conservation areas identified on the 2050 Growth Plan, which include some properties identified in the CLAM program, state and locally protected lands, floodplains, wetlands, and other conservation opportunities. The following sections describe how these elements continue to further conservation efforts in the County. CLAM The Conservation Land Acquisition and Management Program (CLAM) has established primary and secondary goals for land conservation, while also identifying priority areas for focused acquisition efforts. The CLAM was adopted by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) in 2021, and in 2022 the citizens of Nassau County voted to issue $30 million in general obligation bonds to fund the CLAM Program. Properties are ranked Long leaf pine forests are a significant environmental on a GIS-based plan and evaluated annually. Priority feature of the County and provide timber to the mills projects support the primary and secondary goals, and other companies throughout the region. including addressing water issues, protecting habitats and species, supporting working lands, and improving outdoor recreation opportunities and quality of life. 95 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Legend Wetlands Floodplain Vision 2050 Natural & Conservation Areas Wh Vision 2050 Future Natural & Conservation. Areas ENCPA FLUM CHN Uplands CHN Wetlands FIGURE 4.18 Natural and Conservation Areas Mitigation Banks Mitigation banks are designated wetland areas preserved by public or private entities tooffset unavoidable wetland impacts within a specific region. These areas generate impact credits, which can be used to meet regulatory requirements for impacting wetlands. Mitigation banks help protect large, environmentally sensitive lands while A enabling development in areas where growth is desired. They can also serve to establish growth boundaries or limit development in particular regions. However, mitigation credits can sometimes be expensive or difficult to obtain. This can limit the ability of public entities to build critical infrastructure, such as roads, due to the inability to obtain mitigation credits. There are areas within Nassau County that would be suitable for the creation of a regional off-site mitigation area (ROMA), or mitigation bank. A ROMA serves as "Mitigation banking"is the creation, restoration, off-site mitigation for multiple projects and is governed enhancement, and preservation of natural habitats, by Chapter 373 of the Florida State Statutes. Nassau County could utilize ROMAS to pursue joint goals such as wetlands and streams. of conservation and building infrastructure where needed. This tool presents a way to deter growth in environmentally sensitive areas and use the resulting mitigation credits to build public infrastructure in other areas of growth. To establish the ROMA, conservation and restoration efforts may be needed to better connect larger environmentally sensitive areas and protect the long-term vitality of the environment. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 96 DRAFT 05.14.2025 eccers 00 Legend # Sending Zones Receiving Zones I Potential Roadways Mobility Plan Roads New Interchange Future Rail Corridor Railroad S FIGURE 4.19 TDR Sending and Receiving Zones Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) A Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), programi is a tool used to help a property owner to transfer development Density without TDR entitlements from their property when it is within an area desired for rural development or conservation (sending zone), to an area desired for development (receiving zone), as represented in Figure 4.22. Desired growth areas could be identified as receiving zones, shown in rusty orange in Figure 4.21. These areas are primarily those areas intended for public infrastructure and have been identified for more development ini the Vision 2050 Growth Plan. Properties in sending zones could place conservation easements on their land to transfer their Density with TDR Sending Zone development rights in perpetuity. These tools would Receiving Zone allow the County to preserve important agricultural and conservation lands while maintaining the rural character of Western Nassau. For a TDR program to be successful, incentives may be needed to encourage property owners and developers to participate. This may also be done through the creation of an urban growth boundary. If a TDR program were implemented, a tracking system would be necessary to monitor compliance and to manage parcels within the FIGURE 4.20 Example TDR Development designated areas. 97 Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Policies and Regulations for Conservation The County should maintain and expand policies and Management District (SJRW/MD) serves as the principal regulations that protect the rich supply of natural regulatory authority for establishing wetland buffers, resources in the area. For example, the Overlay and all development must adhere to their standards. District, which was created to protect the natural However, the County has the authority to enforce resources along the St. Mary's River, reduces the additional buffer requirements that may exceed those impacts of development and population growth on established by the SJRWMD for highly sensitive areas. the watershed. Key features of the Overly District Additional preservation measures may be necessary on include requirements for larger buffers between the Amelia Island, as a barrier island that protects mainland banks of the river and nearby development. Moving Nassau County and is the most densely populated forward, the County should consider expanding the portion of the County with critical tourism and existing Overlay District to include other major rivers economic development. It has a unique ecosystem that and primary tributaries within Nassau County. should continue to be protected through tree canopy There are existing requirements in the County Land preservation measures and by reducing impacts to the Development Code for adequate landscape buffers critical wetlands and dune systems. to protect the quality of contiguous wetlands. The requirements could be strengthened to establish a minimum buffer for wetlands, which would enable the native vegetation to act as a filtration system for contaminants and further protect the natural areas and water resources. The St. John's River Water Vision 2050 Nassau County Florida 98 DRAFT 05.14.2025 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT Stormwater Master Plan A Stormwater Master Plan Stormwater runoff occurs when rain falls on impervious (SWMP) guides the safe and surfaces like roads, parking lots, and rooftops preventing effective management of stormwater runoff to protect water from soaking into the ground. This runoff collects people and property. SWMPS are used to: pollutants such as oils, chemicals, trash, fertilizers, > Address concerns related to the health and pesticides, and debris from streets and parking lots. It safety of stormwater; then flows into a network of pipes, channels, and ditches known as the County's Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Identify financial needs and funding System (MS4), which transports it away from developed opportunities for stormwater management, areas, often carrying pollutants. The stormwater Assess drainage issues and provide eventually reaches rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, recommendations to address needs; impacting vital habitats for plants and wildlife. Heavy Prioritize and schedule improvements; rain can and, cause excessive runoff, leading to riverine and urban flooding. > Create a holistic approach to resilient and sustainable stormwater management. The pollutants in stormwater runoff can degrade water quality, disrupt ecosystems, and harm properties. This runoff is a major contributor to water pollution, As Nassau County updates its SWMP, it will be important particularly in urban and suburban areas where to develop a plan of best practices and techniques that impervious surfaces are more common. Protecting can be implemented throughout the County. Within water qualityrequires managing stormwater runoff more the SWMP, the opportunity for regional stormwater effectively and reducing the pollutants that enter our ponds should be evaluated to help capture stormwater natural water systems. runoff for development that can be utilized for multiple purposes and mitigate flooding. Nassau has actively worked to address stormwater management, flooding, and other water-related By planning for the future, communities can challenges. Given the county's abundance of wetlands, comprehensively document issues and consider floodplains, creeks, and low-lying areas, flooding is solutions and better position themselves to compete a primary concern frequently raised by residents. for funding. With the flooding issues around the County Assessing stormwater management and resilience as a coastal and riverine community, a SWMP would measures will better equipi the countytohandle weather- help identify which areas need additional planning and related natural hazards. Vision 2050 offers a valuable resources to support infrastructure and acquisition. opportunity to establish a framework for creating a sustainable and resilient Nassau for future generations. 99 Mision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Flooding Flooding in Nassau County can be attributed to flood insurance, such as where a building can be tidal influences, storm surge, riverine and stormwater located on a property and the structural design of a flooding, or a mixture of the different flooding types building, depending on whether or not the building is depending on the weather event. The County's located within a flood zone. stormwater management system moves this water through drains, swales, creeks, rivers, ponds, and similar The NFIP's Community Rating System (CRS) is a infrastructure. When heavy water events occur, a build- voluntary incentive program that recognizes and up of water due to undersized pipes, blocked culverts, or encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. inadequate drainage areas can cause flooding. This includes enhanced mapping, community Most homeowner insurance policies exclude flood- engagement, and building code evaluations. As a result, related property losses. However, flood insurance floodi insurance premium rates are discountedtoreflect is available for various structures, including homes, the reduced flood risk culminating from community condos, mobile homes, and commercial and actions meeting the three goals of the CRS: agricultural buildings. It can provide coverage even without a federal disaster declaration, offering > Reduce flood damage to insurable property. financial protection from flood events through > Strengthen and support the insurance aspects the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for of the NFIP. homeowners and business owners. The NFIP includes > Encourage a comprehensive approach to minimum standards a property must meet to have floodplain management. FLOODE EVENT PROGRESSIONC GRAPHIC * 12 WIDE TRAIL - OAYEAR 1-2YEARS YEARS The use of native vegetation should be used along creek beds to help absorb and mitigate stormwater. FIGURE 4.21 Floodway Design Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 100 DRAFT 05.14.2025 Low Impact Development Low-impact development (LID) is an approach to before it enters the watershed. There are best practice mitigate stormwater runoff through the utilization guides provided by the Environmental Protection of green infrastructure. LID uses on-site features to Agency that can help guide green infrastructure design. improve water quality to replicate the pre-development LID practices include, but are not limited to, the examples hydrologic regime through infiltrating, filtering, storing, provided below. evaporating, and detaining runoff close to its source, Rain gardens represent a Curb exensonswthvegetaston Bioswales retain and filter water bioretention technique which are another type of bioretention from roadways and parking areas filters runoff in a shallow which captures and filters water They are appropriate in any detention area. They are most from roadways. They are most characterarea appropriatel in suburban and rural appropriatein urban tosuburban characterareas. character areas, : A D Soilamendments during a site's Living wallscanbe usedto slow Greenroofs offer numerous developmenticant improve down and absorbrunoff from environmental. and social filtration and reduce runoff dueto building roofs. benefits including stormwater compaction: management, heat reduction, and improved air quality. - a Street trees and vegetative Parks and open spaces can be. Rain barrels and cisterns can be buffers can be used to reduce designed as-"sponge parks"to used to store runoff fromroofs the amount of stormwater reduce the impact of flooding forv watering vegetation. Collected runoff througha absorption: and while improving water quality and water cant feed into storage transpiration, whilefacilitating providing usable green space. container or flower bed. filtration to the aquifer. 101 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 Streets for Environmental Improvements Street design improvements can enhance safety and These types of design guidelines can be used for the accessibility by providing bike lanes, enhanced sidewalks, redevelopment of streets or the design of new streets. and roadway crossing improvements. Stormwater By including these types of elements, the County can management can be improved through the use of green evaluate and improve the quality of run-off before it infrastructure including: bioswales, landscape buffers, and re-enters the waterways. It can also be used to help street trees to help absorb and filter stormwater. A better support resiliency and sustainability measures in an drainage and piping system can move water from roads urban environment. to off-site retention systems. Vegetation, such as canopy trees, and using lighter color pavement, such as concrete, can reduce surface temperatures and provide shade. These factors coupled together can create a more pleasant roadway environment. Curb ramps, cross-walks, and buffers for pedestrian safety. Bioswales and buffers to slow and treat runoff. Street trees provide shade. Landscape buffers between parking lots and sidewalks. %P Street trees in median and buffers cool/shade the area and treat stormwater. d do 6 Sidewalk Buffer Enhanced stormwoter Buffer Sidewalk sewers to redirect water. FIGURE 4.22 Roadway Environmental and Safety Considerations Vision 2050 INassau County, Florida 102 DNE I a NASSAU TOMORROW 103 Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 The final chapter, Nassau Tomorrow, outlines the objectives and strategies of the plan necessary to achieve the community's vision. Based on the eight building blocks, this chapter provides insight into critical components of each topic to ensure the long-term vitality of the County. OVERVIEW NASSAU'S BUILDING BLOCKS The Vision 2050 Implementation Program is organized Authenticity around the eight building blocks, described in Chapter Arts, culture, and traditions 4, which were developed to reflect the community's Page 105-108 values and desires for the future. The building blocks serve as the foundation for Nassau Tomorrow. To guide implementation, each building block is accompanied Balance by objectives and a series of strategies to support the Growth and development, fiscal resilience objectives. Page 109-114 Connectivity BUILDING BLOCK STATEMENT Mobility and access Page 115-118 Broad statement of intent for a desired future. Governance E Government operations o Page 119-124 OBJECTIVE m Objectives outline the desired outcome that relates to o Housing S the building block statement. They create a framework Housing options and availability for how each building block can be achieved. Page 125-128 Livability OUTCOMES Healthy living, built environment, and 4 parks The results of the successful implementation Page 129-134 through the actions and strategies. Opportunity Economic development and vitality Page 135-140 ACTIONS & STRATEGIES 090 Resiliency Specific, measurable steps and policies to achieve 0O Conservation, preservation, stormwater the objectives. a0 management Page 141-146 DRAFT 05.14.2025 AUTHENTICITY We envision a Nassau County that celebrates the unique character of our communities, preserves history, and recognizes cultures and traditions. Authenticity is vital because it ensures that the contemporary needs and forward-thinking aspirations. County's unique character and heritage is preserved It protects cultural landmarks and historical sites, and celebrated. Creating a strong sense of belonging ensuring future generations can experience and learn and pride among residents, authenticity blends the from their heritage. Ultimately, authenticity is not just community's rich history, traditions, and values to about preserving the past; it is about creating a future shape its identity. Moreover, authenticity in community that respects and builds upon the unique identities of planning honors the past while thoughtfully integrating Nassau's communities. 105 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05. .14.2025 OBJECTIVE A.1- Protect historic sites, landmarks, and cultural assets, ensuring the county's unique heritage is preserved and celebrated for future generations. A.1. Outcome: Historic resources and cultural assets are protected. Nassau's residents take great pride in the small-town cultural assets throughout the County and highlight atmosphere and character of their communities. opportunities to preserve historic and cultural sites. In recent years, the County has taken significant Continuing these programs, policies, and initiatives steps to support and safeguard its culture and is vital to celebrating and protecting the County's heritage through initiatives like the Western Nassau rich heritage. Heritage Preservation Plan and the Historic Resource Survey. These efforts have helped to identify key ACTIONS & STRATEGIES A.1.1. Consider adoption of a Historic Preservation Ordinance to locally designate and protect historic districts, communities and structures that contribute to sense-of-place and Nassau's unique cultural heritage. A.1.2. Consider the utilization of Conservation and Resiliency funding to identify and acquire culturally significant lands and structures. A.1.3. Consider public policy that allows flexibility in the adaptive reuse of historic structures. A.1.4. Support access to 4-H and FFA programs. CALID FNANA ADNE SSTEN - MILCOVETO CALLAIAN a V I1I Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 106 DRAFT 05. 14. 2025 OBJECTIVE A.2 - Utilize placemaking to enhance community character and sense of place. A.2. Outcome: Community character and sense of place is strengthened. Preserving the unique character of Nassau's Through development policies, Nassau can foster communities will be essential for maintaining the growth that enhances a distinct feel and atmosphere, integrity and identity of an area as it grows. As ensuring that new developments contribute positively development increases, it will be crucial to implement to the overall sense of place and align with the values thoughtful policies and regulations that guide the and aspirations of local residents. This approach will scale, type, and location of new projects. help maintain the balance between progress and preservation, creating a community that evolves without losing the qualities that make it unique. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES A.2.1. Adopt public policy that requires the utilization of placemaking techniques to celebrate the uniqueness of our diverse communities by capturing and preserving identity. A.2.2. Utilize plaçemaking techniques to create wayfinding systems, community landmarks, and streetscape elements that are representative of the communities in which they are integrated and reinforce community pride and local identity. A.2.3. Encourage the inclusion of public art in public spaces. A.2.4. Consistent with the four qualities of great places' as defined by the Project for Public Space, strive to create public spaces that (1) are accessible; (2) people are engaged in activities there; (3) the space is comfortable and has a good image; and finally, (4) it is a sociable place: one where people meet each other and take people when they come to visit. A.2.5. Support private, nonprofit and citizen-based efforts to increase placemaking in neighborhoods. A.2.6. Protect Nassau's remaining rural aesthetic and small town character. S - 107 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE A.3 - Expand access to arts, culture, and entertainment. A.3. Outcome: Access to arts, culture, and entertainment is available to all residents. Access to arts, culture, and entertainment offers Supporting local artists, musicians, performers, and residents and visitors valuable opportunities to engage cultural organizations ensures that the area's creative socially, while also deepening their connection to the talents are nurtured and showcased, contributing to the historic significance of the area. These activities play local economy and the community's identity. Expanding a crucial role in enhancing overall quality of life by access to arts, culture, and entertainment will not only fostering a sense of belonging and community and broaden the range of experiences available to both providing spaces for people to come together and share residents and visitors, but it will also celebrate and experiences. preserve Nassau County's unique history. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES A.3.1. Work with the designated countywide arts council to establish design guidelines for the review, approval, and placement of public art. A.3. 2. Continue to support and expand community attractions and amenities that celebrate Nassau's unique natural and cultural heritage. A.3. 3. Create areas in public spaces for local artists to display their work. A.3. 4. Continue to organize and support community events, festivals, and educational programs. A.3.5. Support organizations and partners that utilize public events to highlight local arts, cultures, and traditions and celebrate the unique character of different communities within the county. A.3. 6. Consider public policy that creates flexibility to allow opportunities for live-work housing and workspace, temporary occupancy permits for pop-up galeries/entertainment venues, and rooftop cultural spaces. OBJECTIVE A.4 - Form partnerships that celebrate and promote Nassau County's history. A.4. Outcome: Nassau's history is widely recognized, celebrated and promoted. Historic communities should be deeply valued and engagement. By prioritizing the protection of these actively supported to ensure that the essence of their sites, Nassau can maintain its unique historical narrative, heritage is preserved for future generations. With a ensuring that the stories, traditions, and architectural history that spans more than 200years, there are several landmarks that define the County's character are passed communities and landmarks that hold immense cultural down to future generations. Preserving these historic and historical value. These areas must be safeguarded communities not only honors the past but also builds througha combination: of cultural preservationintiatives: a strong foundation for a sustainable and culturally responsible development practices, and community enriched future. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES A.4.1. Coordinate with partners to develop walking tours, create interactive museum exhibits, and host cultural festivals. A.4.2. Create a historical marker program to highlight each community's heritage and encourage interest in local history. A.4.3. Encourage Heritage Trail Markers in key areas identifying Nassau history and culture. A.4.4. Support the Nassau County School District in the creation of local history curriculum and interactive opportunities to educate students on the cultural and historical significance of Nassau and the importance of preserving and understanding the unique character of the community. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 108 DRAFT 05.14.2025 - BALANCE We envision a Nassau County that takes a balaneedandresponsbieapproachtogrowt. redevelopment, economic expansion, and protection of rural areas, active agriculture/ silviculture, and land conservation areas. Nassau County acknowledges that there needs to be The County is comprised of different, and often a balance between growth and preservation. While the competing, interests. Ultimately, a balanced community population will roughly double over the next 25 years, not only caters to the immediate needs of its inhabitants there is a need to shape that growth in a way that but also paves the way for a sustainable future, ensuring preserves the community feel of the County. The needs that the resources: and beautyofther regionare preserved and desires of residents vary around the County. for generations to come while building opportunities for prosperity for all Nassau residents. 109 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE B.1- Establish public policy and adopt land development regulations that produce development patterns and uses which consider long-term fiscal impacts. B.1. Outcome: Growth will consider the long-term fiscal impacts of development. By considering the long-term fiscal implications the government manage fiscal resources, plan of where and how growth occurs, the County can infrastructure needs, and maximize public benefits guide development in a way that preserves quality while minimizing negative consequences. Evaluating of life and strikes a balance between progress and the long-term fiscal effects of development ensures sustainability. Land development regulations, policies, growth is sustainable and financially viable, enhancing and investments can direct growth patterns, helping the financial capacity to provide public services. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES B.1.1. Local governments may consider utilizing the countywide Vision 2050 to update local comprehensive plans. Nassau will use the Vision 2050 to create the countywide 2050 Comprehensive Plan. B.1.2. Nassau, based on the adopted 2050 Comprehensive Plan, will create and adopt modernized unified land development regulations that improve ease of use. B.1.3. Support reinvestment and redevelopment of underutilized retail/service centers and commercial corridors. B.1.4. Establish areas for high-wage and skilled-labor job creating uses. B.1.5. Where appropriate, local governments could consider implementation of form based land development regulations to facilitate mixed use development patterns that result in authentic live, work, play and stay communities. fus Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida 110 DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE B.2 - As counter-weights, (1) Designate areas for intense urbanization and economic expansion strategically located in Nassau County; (2) Designate Rural Areas, Natural & Conservation Areas, griçunural/ivicuture lands, and workinglands that will be protected from development through the planning horizon of 2050; and (3) Designate areas for perpetual conservation. B.2. Outcome: Growth and protection of rural lands are balanced. As the County prepares for future growth, it is crucial to To ensure the long-term well-being of residents, it's establish policies, programs, and mechanisms that guide crucial to focus on strategies that guide development in development to desired locations. A balanced approach a way that aligns with the community's long-term vision. identifies areas for future vitality and economic growth, Preserving small-town character, rural areas, and natural COPAcwAeAye should be preserved, and spaces are key aspects of this vision. Designating high- determines priority areas for conservation. Establishing growth areas alongside low- and no-growth areas helps areas for growth and areas for conservation can promote support these important goals. a more resilient development strategy that is easier to sustain over time. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES B.2.1. Utilize the Preferred Growth Scenario adopted with the Vision 2050 Plan as the foundation for creating the countywide Future Land Use Map adopted with the 2050 Comprehensive Plan. B.2.2. Adopt public policy and land development regulations that discourage development in Rural Areas, Natural & Conservation Areas, agicuturalsiviculture lands, and working lands consistent with the Preferred Growth Scenario adopted with the Vision 2050 Plan. B.2.3. Adopt public policy and land development regulations that encourage the transfer of residential density from Rural Areas, Natural & Conservation Areas, agnicutura/sMcuture lands, and working lands consistent with the Vision 2050 Preferred Growth Scenario. B.2.4. Explore the creation of a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) program to transfer residential density from Rural Areas, Natural & Conservation Areas, agricutural/sivculture lands, and working lands to areas designated to support development in the Employment Center, Urban Center, Urban General, and Rural Town Character Areas consistent with the Vision 2050 Preferred Growth Scenario. B.2.5. Explore the use of tools such as Urban Growth Boundaries to delineate growth areas from areas discouraged from development. 111 Vision 2050 Nassqu County Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE B.3 - Pursue aggressive land and natural resource conservation efforts. B.3. Outcome: Nassau's natural resources are conserved for future generations. The County has prioritized conservation efforts through The County's diverse and lush ecological landscape various planning initiatives over the last decade. The provides invaluable resources, both financially and continuation and strengthening of these efforts is environmentally. The vitality of Nassau is dependent critical for natural resource protection and long-term on the preservation of the critical resources that make environmental sustainability for the County. Nassau one of the most beautiful places in Florida. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES B.3.1. Leverage federal, state, local and private funding to acquire conservation lands. B.3.2. Explore both fee simple and less-than-fee simple acquisitions to conserve land including purchase of development rights in exchange for the continuation of sustainable forestry practices and the protection of working lands. B.3.3. Leverage partnerships to effectively manage conservation lands and resources. B.3.4. Create a public awareness campaign to educate landowners about tax incentives for conservation easements. B.3.5. Continue to pursue efforts to obtain a State of Florida Acquisition and Restoration Council priority ranking of High for the Atlantic to Okefenokee Conservation Corridor. Vision 2050 - Nassou Countyslon y DRAFT 05. 14. 2025 OBJECTIVE B.4 - Continue to prioritize civic engagement, community-based planning, and best practices to ensure a 'people first agenda' that: 1. Informs community planning initiatives; 2. Promotes high levels of Quality-of-Place and Quality-of-Life; 3. Balances the delivery of quality infrastructure with growth; 4. Promotes sense of place and sense of community in new neighborhoods and development; 5. Ensures existing neighborhoods and activity centers are supported and enhanced; and, 6. Creates jobs, expands the economy, spurs private investment and conserves natural resources. B.4. Outcome: Nassau ensures active participation and community engagement to shape community-based plans that reflectresidents' needs and priorities. Community-based planning is an important approach By allowing all voices to be heard int the planning process, to take when considering the future of Nassau County there is more buy-in and ownership in a community's as it ensures that development and decisions reflect future, ensuring a plan's outcomes address the needs and local needs, fosters participation, and leads to more priorities of the community. Community-based planning sustainable and successful outcomes. Community- can incorporate the unique identities of neighborhoods based planning incorporates opportunities for public and districts, incorporate placemaking and build social involvement, builds transparency, and builds on a capital. community's knowledge and understanding. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES B.4.1. Continue to implement the adopted Western Nassau Heritage Preservation Project adopted in December of 2019. B.4.2. Continue to implement the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan and Conservation Land Acquisition and Management program. B.4.3. Create public policy that couples increased development densities and intensities with higher standards of development. B.4.4. Create public policy that couples development in rural areas with protections from urban sprawl and potential degradation of Natural & Conservation Areas, Rural Areas, agricultural, silvicultural, and working lands. B.4.5. When warranted, explore financing mechanisms and revenue generation models that reinvest in designated areas for Quality-ofLife and Quality-of-Place improvements, e.g. Tax Increment Financing, Community Redevelopment Area, Municipal Service Benefit Unit, Municipal Service Taxing Unit, Stewardship Districts, etc. B.4.6. Create the Nassau County Utility Authority for the purpose of coordinating and facilitating the timely, efficient, and effective delivery of critical utility infrastructure as needed. B.4.7. Create public policy that facilitates infill and redevelopment that is served by existing and planned public infrastructure. B.4.8. Continue to collaborate with local municipalities and the Nassau County School District in regards to community and infrastructure planning. 113 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT05142025 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida 114 DRAFT 05. 14. 2025 CONNECTIVITY We envision a Nassau County that is physically yconnected dwith safe,accessible multi-modal transportation options and virtually connected by leveraging existing and emerging technologies. Mobility is crucial for economic development and Nassau should continue to evaluate opportunities to improving connections between people and places better connect its residents to services, amenities, and and enhancing public health, safety, and quality of life. spaces. This can be done through improving existing Proper planning for new development must prioritize infrastructure, planning for new transportation options connectedroadways, alternativecoridors, and emerging in priority development areas, updating cross-sections technologies to improve traffic flow and accessibility and policies related to transportation, new technologies, countywide. and efficiency. 115 Vision 2050 . - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE C.1 - Create a safe, connected multi-modal transportation network. C.1. Outcome: Nassau has a transportation network that enhances public safety and supports sustainable mobility options for all users. Roadways should be designed for safe travel by all users, use of rumble strips. Employing saferi travel speeds along as their design can influence user safety, functionality, corridors to mitigate run-offs, collisions, and similar and intended use. Roadway strategies to promote safety crashes can be a strategy used on lesser traveled roads. can vary based on the surrounding development context. These types of elements can be used to ensure there are Safety measures include ensuring pedestrians are visible safeguards in place to protect all roadway users. when crossing the street, providing pedestrian refuge islands or medians at identified crossings, incorporating bicycle lanes, wide shoulders, shared-use paths, or the ACTIONS & STRATEGIES C.1.1. Implement Complete Streets policies and practices that prioritize the safety and comfort of all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders. C.1.2. Continue to install, or facilitate installation of, bicycle and pedestrian mobility facilities with new development, redevelopment, and govemment-sponsored capital projects. C.1.3. Require cross sections that support context-sensitive roadway designs. C.1.4. Consider utilizing floodplains and greenways for multi-use trail corridors. C.1.5. Continue to coordinate with regional partners to identify and construct multi-use trail projects of State and regional significance. C.1.6. Create new roadway cross-sections for rural scenic byways and limited access rural roadways. C.1.7. Continue to partner with citizen groups, nonprofits, and other governmental agencies to provide enhanced bicycle and pedestrian facilities. USE PATH SHARED UESEIOSCAPE VEHICLE LADRON VONIE / - / Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 116 DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE C.2 - Collaborate with public and private partners to expand reliable and affordable high-speed internet access throughout the County and access to virtual services. C.2. Outcome: All Nassau residents have reliable, affordable, and equitable internet access. Ensuring access to the internet is important for the The County has made strides recently to support the vitality of residents and visitors. In a world that relies on expansion of broadband infrastructure in western digital technology for communication and services, the Nassau County. These efforts should be continued continued expansion of reliable access to broadband and expanded to ensure all residents have predictable should be a forefront priority. internet coverage. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES C.2.1. Implement "dig-once" policies to coordinate broadband infrastructure into road, utility, and public works projects. C.2.2. Utilize federaland: statefundingprograms to support broadbandexpansionroectsinunsenedandunderserved areas. C.2.3. Create and maintain maps of broadband availability to inform decision-making and target investments effectively. C.2.4. Expand availability of free public Wi-Fi in parks, libraries, and community centers. C.2.5. Coordinate with the Nassau County Department of Health and local/regional partners to increase access to virtual medicine, virtual learning, and social interactions through technology. a 1 - A1 BB MET 5 Enjoy TWC WiFi Right Here. Right Now. Plano ETwGI 117 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE C.3 - Strategically invest in an efficient and well maintained system of mobility infrastructure that maximizes economic growth, quality of life, fiscal sustainability, and long-term resilience. C.3. Outcome: Nassau has a funded infrastructure improvement program to accommodate projected growth through the planning period. A major challenge of growth is ensuring the community areas, as well as making improvements to the existing infrastructure needed to maintain a high quality of infrastructure to enhance mobility and accessibility. The life is in place. Often, development occurs before the County has utilized mobilityfees, grants, ando other public necessary infrastructure is ready to support a growing resources to fund infrastructure, and it will be essential population. For Nassau County's future, it's crucial to to continue using various funding mechanisms to ensure ensure that adequate roads, water systems, and other a quality transportation system for future generations. public facilities are in place before developing greenfield ACTIONS & STRATEGIES C.3.1. Continue to implement and fund the Pavement Management Plan and Chip Seal Program. C.3.2. Utilize alternative sources such as Municipal Service Taxing Unit/Municipal Service Benefit Unit, Tax Increment Financing, grants, industrial bonds, special districts, etc. to reduce strain on local countywide ad valorum property taxes to fund critical mobility infrastructure improvements. C.3.3. Incorporate the recommendations of the Jacksonville Transportation Authority Transit Study - 2024 Update to expand public transit options and reduce congestion and wear and tear on major roadways. C.3.4. Identify new strategic roadway corridors and begin to secure the necessary right-of-way to execute future construction. C.3.5. Continue to actively participate in the decision making process of the North Florida Transportation Planning Organization and Technical Advisory Committee. C.3.6. Continue to proactively manage the countywide Mobility Plan, Mobility Fees, and Long Range Transportation Plan. C.3.7. Create a parallel road network to reduce congestion on major roadways and distribute traffic across altemative routes. C.3.8. Utilize intelligent traffic systems, smart transit apps, and real-time travel displays to improve transportation efficiency. C.3.9. Continue to fund and implement a proactive maintenance program to keep roads, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure in good condition. C.3.10. Evaluate railroad crossings and work withrailroad operators to improve mobility, provide bicycle and pedestrian crossings, and cost share in maintenance responsibilities. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 118 DRAFT 05.14.2025 O GOVERNANCE We envision a Nassau County served by an effective and accountable local government that gives equitable validity to competing values andinterests, expands civic capacities, pursues the greater common good, and places the long-term best interest of the whole community at the apex of decision making. Good governance involves striking a balance by fairly ensuring effectiveness, efficiency, and fiscal stability weighing competing values and interests. When when delivering services. Elected and appointed leaders community values conflict, public officials must make must demonstrate strong leadership and promote decisions that serve the greater public good. No single genuine collaboration while avoiding divisive actions. organization can address complex issues alone; local Decision-making must be transparent to foster public governments must collaborate to find shared solutions. trust and acceptance. Ultimately, working together for A collaborative approach to public policy is key to the long-term benefit of the community is vital. 119 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE G.1 - Create a more efficient, effective, and transparent local government. G.1. Outcome: Nassau enhances public trust and ensures responsive and accountable governance. Trust in local government leads to better outcomes for When trust is present, residents are more likely to all residents. It's essential for residents to hold governing support policies and spending that address community bodies accountable for how they use resources, create needs. Trust extends beyond growth and development policies, and implement practices to support the decisions toinclude public safety, emergency responses, community. A well-run government contributes to a crisis management, and social stability. While the higher quality of life and ensures long-term vitality and community may not always agree with every decision, resilience. there should be transparency and trust in the decision- making process. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES G.1.1. Where appropriate, local governments should implement automated platforms to streamline services, decrease human error, provide more predictability and make obtaining information easier, e.g. permitting, development review, citizen requests, work orders, agenda publication, etc. G.1.2. After adoption of the 2050 Comprehensive Plan, the Board of County Commissioners should create a new five- year organizational strategic plan. G.1.3. Local governments should evaluate existing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), create new KPls, and publish real-time performance dashboards accessible to the public. G.1.4. Local governments should create simplified budget and financial reports that citizens can utilize to easily obtain information related to resource allocations, e.g. Citizens Guide to the Budget. G.1.5. Follow through on implementation of Vision 2050. G.1,6. Continually review and, as appropriate, adopt new technologies that improve operational efficiencies and effectiveness, result in better decision making, and reduce long-term liabilities, e.g. Artificial Intelligence, 'Code Review' programs, etc. LIGHT - AVEN Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 120 DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE G.2 - Reduce dependency on residential property ad valorem tax revenue and diversify the local economy through job creation, nonresidential development, and alternative revenues. G.2. Outcome: Nassau reduces reliance on residential property ad valorem tax revenue through expanded commercial investment. Nassau County's current revenue is primarily dependent infrastructure by increasing available funds for road on ad valorem taxes. Expanding the County's tax base is repairs and development, parks, conservation efforts, important because it will boost revenue, providing more public services, and other community needs. Ultimately, funding for public services. This expansion will also help additional revenue helps the community become more reducet thet tax burdenonresidents: by offering alternative fiscally resilient over the long term and provides greater sources of funding. A larger tax base can improve public flexibility in spending to enhance quality of life. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES G.2.1. Identify, designate and support strategic locations for the creation of high-wage and skilled labor jobs in proximity to major infrastructure installations. G.2.2. Create opportunities for mixed-use developments that integrate commercial and retail spaces with residential units. [Create 'Live, Work, Play, Stay' communities.) G.2.3. Actively pursue and support public-private partnerships, that are demonstrated to be in the long-term best interests of the citizens, to fund necessary infrastructure in or near designated employment centers to create shovel- ready project sites and 'spec' buildings. G.2.4. Leverage existing publicly owned lands and facilities to createrecuringrevenue streams to support government services, programs and economic expansion. G.2.5. Leverage alternative funding and financing mechanisms to incentivize nonresidential development and job creation, e.g. Industrial Bonds, State and Federal grants, Tax Increment Financing districts, Municipal Service Benefit Unit/Municipal Service Taxing Unit, etc. G.2.6. Protect job creating land-uses from intrusion by residential uses. 121 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE G.3 - Facilitate authentic civic engagement, expand civic capacities, nurture the collaborative pursuit of the common good. G.3. Outcome: Nassau residents inform decision-moking. and a shared commitment to the common good. Civic engagement is essential for a place's success as making, follow through with implementing plans, and it builds social capital, strengthens community ties, and ensure projects and policies benefit the community. batemtpuatimony-scemaremstaspoetoponunte Engaged citizens hold governing bodies accountable for for collaboration and discussion about the community's their actions and decisions, resulting in more responsive needs and priorities. Local governments must cultivate public services. Education and involvement ensures the relationships with the community to enhance decision- government is acting in the pursuit of the common good. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES G.3.1. Local governments should consider the creation of Citizens Academies' to educate citizens, nurture positive public-government relationships, increase meaningful communication between local government officials and citizens, and inspire future civic leaders and public officials. G.3.2. Proactively engage with communities through targeted outreach, accessible meeting locations Igo to the citizens), and use of multiple communication mediums. G.3.3. Find, encourage, and support community champions. G.3.4. Provide monthly updates to the community on government activities and initiatives. G.3.5. Local governments should consider requiring community engagement plans for all major community planning initiatives and capital projects. G.3.6. Consider public policy that requires large private development projects to hold community meetings. G.3.7. Local governments should push back against NIMBYism [Not In My Back Yard] when projects are in the long- term best interest of the greater community. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 122 DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE G.4 - Prioritize intergovernmental coordination for the betterment of the community. G.4. Outcome: Local, state and federal organizations and agencies regularly coordinate, collaborate, and partner for the betterment of the community. Nassau County cannot operate in isolation; it must land use, and policies arei in place to support both present collaborate with its municipalities, infrastructure and future residents. The County's long-term success providers, and regional partners to shape a better future. depends on effective coordination with partners, which Regular coordination is essential to ensure the County's includes pursuing funding opportunities, planning actionsa alignwitht the needs of its partners. Throughopen infrastructure development, and addressing community communication, the County can plan for the future while needs for today and in the future. addressing current needs, ensuring that infrastructure, ACTIONS & STRATEGIES G.4.1. Local governments, Nassau staff, and officials should proactively and regularly collaborate, partner and pursue joint efforts that are in the long-term best interest of the greater community. G.4.2. Regular meetings between leadership of all three municipalities and Nassau should take place regularly. G.4.3. Local governments should coordinate, collaborate, and partner with other local, state and federal agencies and organizations for the betterment of the community. G.4.4. Nassau should explore joint planning and annexation agreements with each municipality to align the countywide comprehensive plan and Future Land Use Map (FLUM) Series with municipal comprehensive plans and FLUMS for lands within designated joint planning and annexation areas. G.4.5. Nassau should continue to provide grant programs and partnerships to deliver community events and public infrastructure in collaboration with municipalities. G.4.6. Through the creation of the Nassau County Utility Authority, begin to coordinate and leverage the resources of the various public utility providers operating in Nassau County. G.4.7. Continue proactive coordination between the Nassau County School District, local governments, and Nassau County to provide best-in-class public schools. G.4.8. Continue effective coordination between the five local Constitutional Officers and the Nassau County Board of County Commissioners. 123 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Floriba DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE G.5 - Make policy, financial, and design decisions that are in the long-term best interests of the citizens as a whole and with the expectation that Nassau County will exist in perpetuity. G.5. Outcome: Nassau ensures the sustainable growth, prosperity, and well-being ofits citizens, safeguarding its vitality for future generations. Effective planning evaluates the needs of today and in This ensures the County stays on track with the needs the future. In order to ensure fiscal resilience, near- and of today while considering those in the future. Creating long-term programming is needed for infrastructure, a capital improvements plan that encompasses 20 years projects, and investments. Managing projects, costs, allows the County to map out infrastructure to best and funding will help plan where additional funding support the community's vision for the future, while resources are needed, prioritize projects, and ensure offering flexibility if desires change. fiscal responsibility. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES G.5.1. Long-term fiscal sustainability should be a priority in the decision making process of local governments. G.5.2. Local governments should proactively cure and prevent deferred capital maintenance through the allocation of resources, sound financial policies, asset inventory management systems, and forward-looking budget practices. G.5.3. Local governments should create short-term (5-year) and long-term (20-year) capital improvement plans to anticipate future expenses and revenue trends, operations and maintenance costs, explore funding mechanisms, and prioritize essential infrastructure projects. G.5.4. Protect the uniqueness of place, protect job creating land uses, diversify the economic base of the County, and create an environment that facilitates prosperity on a generational scale that balances short-term success with long-term viability. Vision 2050 Nossau County, Florida 124 DRAFT 05.14.2025 - - - - HOUSING We envision a Nassau County that is intentional about creating and safeguarding attainable housing near local employment centers, public facilities, amenities, and high performance public spaces for residents of all ages and their families no matter their stage in life. A diversity of housing options, at various price points, and creating overlay districts that promote higher density should be available throughout Nassau County. The to diversify housing options within developments. These County has taken initiatives to increase the types of efforts, along with planned developments offering a mix housing available countywide, such as establishing an ofhousing types, have ledi to ani increase in the availability affordable housing committee, participating in state of townhomes and rental units over the past five years. housing programs, adopting ordinances to permit It will be important to incorporate housing types in the accessory dwelling units and tiny home developments, future to meet the needs of residents. 125 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE H.1- Create incentives that increase the availability of quality, affordable housing options for residents across income levels [based on Nassau County income levels). H.1. Outcome: Nassau has quality, affordable housing to accommodate residents from all income levels. Creating incentives that increase the availability of Additionally, leveraging public-private partnerships quality, affordable housing options for residents can help to pool resources and expertise to create across income levels is critical. The County can explore more innovative and sustainable housing solutions. The inclusionary zoning, expand the tiny home development County could also consider implementing measures ordinance, and create revenue streams to support in certain areas to ensure that lower-income residents affordability options. incomes vary widely across the are not priced out of their neighborhoods. By adopting County; as such, there should be a wide range of housing these strategies, Nassau can work towards a more options incorporated into new developments. inclusive and equitable housing market where everyone has access to a safe and affordable place to live. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES H.1.1. Consider expanding the Tiny Home Development ordinance to include "for-sale" options. H.1.2. Consider public policy similar to inclusionary zoning/pay-in-lieu requirements for multifamily residential and mixed use projects in exchange for increased density and intensity levels that produce affordable housing at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income. H.1.3. Consider public policy that establishes linkage fees for new development as a revenue stream for affordable housing. OBJECTIVE H.2 - Promote quality infill development along primary corridors and in areas with a focus on proximity to transit (existing and future), employment hubs, activity centers (existing and future) and essential services. H.2. Outcome: Nassau provides housing opportunities near jobs, transit, and essential services. The current housing stock consists mainly of low- to reducing reliance on automobiles. Reusing and adapting medium-densitys single-famiyhomes,t typicallyseparated existing buildings can revitalize areas, reduce greenfield from commercial areas within a traditional Euclidean development, and create more livable communities. zoning framework. Changing policies to allow for a wider As the County develops new employment and activity range of densities around emerging and existing centers centers, incorporating higher-density housing will will create more diverse housing options. Providing expand housing options and offer residences closer to housing near employment, services, activities, and essential services. transit promotes "live, work, play, stay" opportunities, ACTIONS & STRATEGIES H.2.1. Consider a flexible density bonus/Transfer of Development Rights program for residential and mixed-use developments near transit hubs, employment centers, and essential services. H.2.2. Adopt regulations to increase minimum density, minimum lot size requirements and increase building heights to encourage smaller-scale, infill housing developments. H.2.3. Consider an adaptive reuse ordinance to convert existing nonresidential structures for residential use. H.2.4. Encourage infill development of vacant land and reuse of existing and underutlized buildings to address housing needs. H.2.5. Protect existing neighborhoods from encroachment of high density/intensity development. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 126 DRAFT 05.14. .2025 OBJECTIVE H.3 - Develop and maintain partnerships with private sector and nonprofit entities to promote housing for all ages and stages of life. H.3. Outcome: Nassdu ensures that housing is available for all ages and stages of life. The County can partner with non-profit and private developers and using housing tax credits to facilitate developers to diversify housing options in the County. new seniors housing development. Options to "age in The County should address the needs of its aging place" will provide residents with the flexibility to stay population and increase the stock of affordable where they are comfortable. and accessible housing for seniors by working with ACTIONS & STRATEGIES H.3.1. Work with area agencies that focus on aging and disability advocacy groups to promote accessory dwelling units and residential care facilities to support older adults, caregivers, and their families. H.3.2. Work with the development community to adopt incentives for master planned communities that offer age-in- place housing options. H.3.3. Work with area business owners to explore an incentive program for employers who invest in workforce housing. H.3.4. Implement programs and partnerships to create a range ofhousing options that cater to the needs of individuals and families at different life stages and affordability levels Ibased on Nassau County income levels). OBJECTIVE H.4 - Ensure adequate residential entitlements to ensure that a variety of housing types are in place to meet population demands projected over the planning horizon of 2050. H.4. Outcome: Nassau satisfies the demand for housing through the 2050 planning period. Nassau County's population is expected to nearly double areas for higher-density, context-appropriate infill and over the next 25 years. While much of the housing redevelopment, the County can better direct where needed to accommodate this growth could be built new residential development takes place. Additionally, within existing development areas, new development developing mixed-use, walkable, and vibrant centers will areas will still need to be identified to prevent thel low- to not only support the tax base, generating more revenue medium-density development pattern frome encroaching for public services, but also offer residents healthier on the County's desired rural areas. By designating living options. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES H.4.1. Create public policy that requires a mixture of housing types and affordability ranges in new development, redevelopment, and infill development in exchange for increased density and intensity standards. H.4.2.F Promote mixed-use developments near current and future public transit facilities, employment opportunities, and amenities to create vibrant, walkable communities that enhance residents' quality of life and reduce transportation costs. H.4.3. Promote mixed use developments that create places where citizens can live, work, play and stay. 127 Vision 2050 1 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05. 14. 2025 OBJECTIVE H.5- Identify opportunities to allow the impact fee system to accommodate desired development types. H.5. Outcome: Nassau provides incentives to encourage the development of affordable housing. Impact fees are a method used to fund public development, without flexibility for accessory dwelling infrastructure by charging a reasonable fee on new units or affordable housing. Introducing a more flexible development. These fees, assessed periodically by the system that reduces fees for certain types of attainable community, are used to support roads, parks, services, housing could help incentivize the development of these and other public needs. The County's current fee housing options. structure applies to all new commercial and residential ACTIONS & STRATEGIES H.5.1. Amend the impact fee ordinance to allow reduced fee levels for accessory dwelling units as defined by Nassau. H.5.2. Establish a yearly impact fee subsidy allocation for affordable housing units. H.5.3. Amend the impact fee ordinance to calculate the fee on square feet of living space. OBJECTIVE H.6 - Ensure the availability of affordable housing options for essential workers, public employees, first responders, educators, and support staff. H.6. Outcome: Nassau has ample housing options to accommodate its workforce. Another type of housing that would benefit the County Using the 100 to 120 percent AMI calculation commonly is workforce housing. The County's Area Median Income used by many communities, the "affordable" units may still (AMI) varies signifiçantly across the region. While the be unaffordable for many residents. To address this, the overall AMI for the County is around $84,0001 annually, County can increase the availability of employer-assisted it drops to below $65,0001 on the western side. Many housing by offering financial incentives or encouraging of the essential workers, such as public employees, collaboration between companies and non-profit teachers, and first responders, are not paid high wages. organizations to support workforce housing initiatives. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES H.6.1. Continue to work with the Nassau County School District to provide affordable housing options for School District employees. H.6.2. Continue to work with major employers and the hospitality industry to provide affordable housing options for employees. H.6.3. Continue to expand the allocation of local State Housing Initiative Partnership funds to facilitate the creation of new affordable units at or below 80 percent Area Median Income based on Nassau County income levels. 1 Source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates (2017 - 2022) Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 128 DRAFT 05.14.2025 LIVABILITY We envision a Nassau County that evolves with its citizens by providing access to healthyfood, medicalservices,education, the arts, parks, nature, entertainment, socialization, and leisure activities. Livability plays a crucial role in determining the quality public transportation, healthcare, education, parks, arts, of life for all residents. While what is considered "livable" entertainment, and open spaces. By promoting a high may vary slightly from person to person, it generally standard of livability, Nassau County can attract and retain refers to a community where everyone has access to residents, support local businesses, and create a vibrant the essential services and amenities that make daily life environment where everyone feels valued and supported. not just possible, but enjoyable. This includes access to 129 Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05. 14. 2025 OBJECTIVE L.1- Maintain, expand and create new parks, open spaces, recreational facilities, and social spaces across the County that embrace the principles and standards of the adopted Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan. L.1. Outcome: Residents have a quality parks, recreation, open space, and trails system that embraces the "Power of 10." A critical component of a healthy community is its enhanced. Educational components can be incorporated parks,recreation, and open space system. Implementing into parks and greenways through signage and public the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan, art. A connected network of trails, both on-street and along with the trails system, has improved access to through greenways, will ensure safe and alternative recreational activities throughout the County since transportation to parks and other destinations. Offering its adoption in 2021. Expanding the parks system and diverse programs through the Parks Department or in incorporating various elements within each park will offer partnership with private entities will provide residents additionalplayand: social opportunities for residents of all with a variety of classes, programs, and activities at ages and abilities. With its proximity to rivers, estuaries, lower costs. and the ocean, public access to waterways should be ACTIONS & STRATEGIES L.1.1. Implement the Nassau Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan. L.1.2. Require that all new parks incorporate Integrated Public Realm, High Performance Public Spaces, 10-Minute Walk, and Power of 10 principles. L.1.3. Create public policy that requires implementation of High Performance Public Spaces standards when creating public and quasi-public social spaçes. L.1.4. Take all actions necessary to protect and preserve the public's customary use of the beaches of Amelia Island including beach driving and parking. L.1.5. Aggressively protect existing, and pursue new, public access points to rivers, creeks and the beaches of Amelia Island. This includes protecting publicly accessible roadways and public rights-of-way, whether open or not, that provide access to bodies of water or marshlands. L.1.6. Consider new revenue streams to offset the cost of managing parks, recreation, open space and social spaces, e.g. beach park parking fees for non-county residents and property owners. L.1.7. Establish a formal blueway system (paddling trails) and public access to Nassau's waterways. L.1.8. Make investments to connect people with nature. Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida 130 DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE L2-Incorporate quality of life amenities into all new development and redevelopment. L.2. Outcome: Quality of life amenities are incorporated into all residential and mixed-use areas. Quality of life amenities include parks and recreation and private developments can ensure that quality of life services, healthcare options, schools, arts and culture, amenities are included in the future. These amenities not entertainment, transportation options, social services, onlyi improve offerings for existing residents, but can play and similar opportunities to meet daily needs. While the a role in new businesses locating to the County, people composition of these amenities may vary throughout moving to Nassau County, or the continued support of the County, it is important to determine how public tourism in the County. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES L.2.1. Implement the standards of the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan for design of parks, recreation, open space and social spaces within private developments. L.2.2. Ensure new developments have a well-connected network of streets, sidewalks, and trails. L.2.3. Consider public policy that requires stormwater facilities be designed as a recreation and social space that is meaningfully integrated into the adjacent community. L.2.4. Ensure natural amenities, historic resources and sense of place are protected and prioritized. L.2.5. Adopt public policy that requires a built environment that is engaging, vibrant, and contains a mix of use designed at a human scale, intended to promote social interactions, and facilitate a sense of community. L.2.6. Consistent with the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan, strive for a built environment that results in every resident being within a 10-minute walk of an accessible park. L.2.7. Encourage leisure programming and the arts in public parks and social spaces. L.2.8. As new development occurs and new public infrastructure and amenities are provided, ensure that existing communities receive investments. Celebrate existing assets while maintaining and pursuing a future orientation. L.2.9. Be nimble and open to exploring new and emerging opportunities to improve quality of life. YUBa 131 Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE L.3 - Support public and private educational institutions, vocational training, and career development. L.3. Outcome: Nassau's education system is the best in the state. A quality education system is fundamental to the Additionally, education plays a critical role in economic success and prosperity of a community. Access to development, as businesses are more inclined to educational opportunities often influences the decisions establish themselves in areas with a skilled workforce. of young families when choosing where to reside. Offering higher education opportunities within the Furthermore, education provides valuable social and community can foster upward mobility and provide cultural experiences, contributing to greater cohesion individuals with the ability to advance in their careers or within communities. An educated population is also pursue new professional paths, all while remaining within more likely to make informed decisions about their their home community. health and lifestyle choices. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES L.3.1. Assist the Nassau County School District in creating affordable housing for district employees. L.3.2. Create a vibrant, engaging, and walkable mixed use development pattern around the Florida State College at Jacksonville Nassau Center campus with the intent of creating an integrated campus that mimics the social, housing, and amenity offerings of larger universities. L.3.3. Support expanded transportation opportunities to educational institutions. L.3.4. Support programs that develop skilled-labor and the trades. L.3.5. Continue to implement and expand trade related apprenticeship programs, professional development of planners, engineers, plans examiners, etc., and equipment operators training program. L.3.6. Ensure implementation of Nassau's Interlocal Agreement for Public School Facility Planning. L.3.7. Continue to assist the Nassau County School District with (1) installation of critical infrastructure to expand existing and build new schools and (2) negotiating and securing new school sites. L.3.8. Partner with nonprofits and community organizations to identify opportunities to enhance the education system. my 4D D 1 : - - - a Ia M TI TE Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE L.4 - Support expanded access to medical services, fresh foods, and recreation/social programming and amenities. L.4. Outcome: There are opportunities to access medical services, fresh foods, and recreation/ social programming and amenities. An emerging medical hub at the SR-200 and 1-95 As a growing community there are opportunities interchange offers a wide range of medical services; to enhance access to medical services, fresh food, offerings that are more sparse west of I-95. Much of and recreation programs through funding resources, western Nassau is also located in a food dessert and incentives, and partnerships. Mobile services can allow recreation programming is limited countywide. providers to be more responsive to the community's needs and provide for better coverage. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES L.4.1. Consider converting a portion of the Department of Health brick and mortar rural clinics to mobile clinics that can serve residents throughout the community. L.4.2. Encourage and support partnerships that provide recreation, social programing, and wellness events in public spaces to support healthy lives. L.4.3. Continue to support nonprofit entities that provide services and programming that promote access to medical services, fresh foods, and recreation/social programing and amenities. L.4.4. Protect existing working lands and agricultural operations, and the potential for future working lands and agricultural operations, by enforcing agricultural land use densities of one dwelling unit per twenty acres of land as defined in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan. L.4.5. Adopt land development regulations that promote agri-hood developments, clustering of residential units, and conservation communities. L.4.6. Continue to work with the Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board and the Nassau Community Transportation Coordinator to provide transit access to medical services. 36066 E 133 Vision 2050 Nassou County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE L.5 - Provide public safety services that meet the needs of the County. L.5. Outcome: Public safety services meet the needs of the County. Ensuring public safety is critical to fostering a thriving Collaborative efforts between governmental agencies, community where residents feel secure and protected local organizations, and community leaders can facilitate in addressing both the immediate and long-term needs. a more integrated approach to public safety, fostering By investing in trainings and partnership opportunities trust and cooperation among diverse groups. Through for fire and safety personnel, services can be tailored to these partnerships and investments, Nassau County effectively respond to the unique challenges faced by can build a resilient public safety framework that not different neighborhoods. Continuous assessment and only safeguards the well-being of its residents but also improvement of emergency response protocols, crime enhances their quality of life. prevention programs, and disaster preparedness plans are essential to maintain a robust safety infrastructure that adapts to evolving threats and circumstances. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES L.5.1. Continue to prepare for and respond to natural and manmade disasters and severe events. L.5.2. Expand the effectiveness of the Local Mitigation Strategy to support the public safety and resiliency needs of the community. L.5.3. Continue to examine interlocal agreements for delivery of Fire and Rescue services and implementation of primary and secondary responders. L.5.4. Continue to explore opportunities to improve evacuation routes and options. L.5.5. Continue to evolve and adapt the Nassau Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. L.5.6. Continue to provide disaster response and recovery training to essential personnel and partners. MASSAU COUNTY RE AESCUE FERNANDINA BEACK 201 @ Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 134 DRAFT 05.14.2025 - OPPORTUNITY / We envision a Nassau County that supports retail, business, and industrial innovation, resulting in a robust local economy and variety of job opportunities for existing and future residents. Economic growth is essential for the future of Nassau needs to expand its tax base. Economic growth drives County, affecting every aspect of residents' lives. innovation, offering new opportunities in education, About 67 percent of workers residing in Nassau County employment, and entrepreneurship, which attracts more currently commute outside the County for work, a trend residents and businesses. By diversifying industries likely to grow without efforts to attract new employers. like agri-tourism, boutique hotels, nature activities, As residents shop while commuting, local spending and sports tourism, the County can boost prosperity. declines. Nassau's budget relies heavily on ad valorem Economic vitality depends on a skilled workforce, taxes, but residential taxes do not generate as much which is essential for attracting industries and ensuring revenue as non-residential property taxes. To maintain sustainable growth. Ultimately, opportunity is key to a high quality of life and provide services, the County community development and prosperity for all. 135 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE O.1 - Create a sufficient amount of new high wage and skilled jobs to support the local economy and expanding population. O.1. Outcome: Nassau has ample high-wage and skilled jobs to support the local economy and expanding population. Industries driving Nassau County's economy include plan is aligned to protect and promote these industries Paper and Packaging (largely fueled by timber and preserve space to support new development and production), Hospitality and Tourism, Healthcare, and expansion for existing and potential target industry Transportation and Logistics. To attract continued users. In addition, incentives such as direct assistance, growthi in these specialized industries, the County should accelerated permitting processes and/or dedicated prioritize workforce development initiatives that create staff to manage applications for target industry users and maintain jobs and secure a strong talent pipeline for can help to facilitate growth. target employers. The County should ensure its land use ACTIONS & STRATEGIES 0.1.1. Strive to maintain or exceed the current jobs to housing ratio by expanding areas to accommodate high-wage job generating uses in strategic locations adjacent to existing or planned infrastructure. 0.1.2. Amend the Future Land Use Map to designate future employment centers consistent with the 2050 Vision Preferred Growth Scenario and protect the areas from encroachment of incompatible uses. 0.1.3. Invest ininfrastructure to support target industries and stimulate economic growth in designated employment centers. 0.1.4. In areas designated for growth, encourage mixed-use activity centers at residential densities that can support and sustain retail and service businesses while also providing job opportunities in proximity to housing and leisure activities. 0.1.5. Consider funding mechanisms to support economic expansion. 0.1.6. Accelerate the permitting process for target industries and/or dedicate staff to managing applications for target industries. RIDE Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 136 DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE 0.2 - Build and sustain a strong talent pipeline by attracting, supporting, and retaining the County's workforce. 0.2. Outcome: Nassau successfully cultivates a robust talent pipeline of skilled and ready professionals and trodesmen/craftsmen. To attract new employers and improve the jobs to Building a workforce can bring new employers to the housingratio, the County should explore ways to support region. Furthering education or workforce skills can workforce development and training opportunities. also provide opportunities for upward mobility, higher The County can partner with the School District, paying jobs, and greater stability in a job market. As the private schools, trade programs, and higher education County focuses on bringing in target industries, new institutions to evaluate thei types of programs that would local businesses, and supporting existing employers in be beneficial for target industries. the County, a reputable workforce is key to maintaining a stable economy. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES 0.2.1. Partner with the Nassau County School District and other educational institutions, vocational programs, and businesses to equip a workforce for today and the coming decades. 0.2.2. Consider the creation of a workforce council comprised of industry leaders and educational institutions to develop workforce training priorities and curriculum development. 0.2.3. Support certification programs that address high-demand skills in the healthcare, technology, skilled trades, and manufacturing sectors. 0.2.4. Invest in amenities and services that enhance the quality of life for entry-level workforce residents (parks, recreation, cultural venues, public transportation). 0.2.5. Create vibrant, active, and engaging communities that attract the creative class, remote workers, dual professional income households, and upwardly mobile professionals. 0.2.6. Create opportunities for talented locals to professionally and financially prosper and experience a vibrant, socially engaged life in Nassau as means to prevent their relocation and loss of skill-set and to stimulate future contributions; prevent 'brain drain'. 137 Vision 2050 - I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05. 14.2025 OBJECTIVE 0.3 - Businesses and target industries are recruited, retained, expanded and supported. 0.3. Outcome: Target industries and local businesses in Nassau flourish creating an adaptive and resilient business environment. By focusing on target industries, the County can Policy and land use can make the necessary infrastructure planning be used to direct improvements to employment growth to desired areas incentivize and attract businesses to Nassau County. the vision for the and best support To plan for economic development and growth, an community. The attraction and support of businesses does not fall economic development plan should be created to Maintaining solely on the County. outline steps government officials and staff can take to entities and partnerships with economic development build a more diverse tax base and support employment non-profits are vital to economic success. growth within Nassau County. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES 0.3.1. Adopt a comprehensive economic development strategy, including communications and concert with economic development and business partners. marketing plan, in 032PatnerwithNassau Prosperity Alliance members, nonprofit partners, andthe private sector to Nassau and aggressively recruit target industries and business expansion/relocation into the Nassau actively market. promote 0.3.3. Consider public policy that allows flexibility in the adaptive reuse of blighted areas, centers, and infill areas to support job creation, small business expansion and entrepreneurship. underperforming retail 0.3.4. Accelerate the permitting process for target industries and/or dedicate staff to target industries. managing applications for 0.3.5. Maintain dedicated staff members to serve as liaisons between Nassau and existing businesses to assist expansion efforts (site plan review process, permitting, land use, zoning). with 0.3.6. Coordinate with the local chambers of commerce, Nassau County Economic Beach Main Street, and other business advocacy groups to support local business initiatives. Development Board, Fernandina 0.3.7. Encourage the co-location of small entrepreneurial firms with similarly focused industry clusters to share technology, skills, knowledge, and innovations. 0.3.8. Support agricultural businesses and evaluate opportunities to expand financial for silvicultural operations and activities. stability agricultural/ 0.3.9. Ensure County regulations are consistent with Right to Farm statutes and support the of farming. long-term vitality Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 138 DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE 0.4 - Tourism continues to be an important economic base for Nassau County. 0.4. Outcome: Tourism maintains its vital role in sustaining Nassau's economic prosperity. Tourism plays a major role in Nassau County's economy. development with sports fields, access to hunting and Every year more than 1.2 million people visit Amelia fishing, open spaces, and miles of trails, the County has Island and surrounding areas, contributing significant unparalleled potential to build a comprehensive sports revenues to the County. A majority of visitors spend tourism network. Eco-, Agri-, and sports tourism can also their time on Amelia Island but there are opportunities drive private development. The County and its municipal to expand tourism revenues outside of Amelia Island by partners can support the development of boutique applying hotel andt tourism taxes off the island, marketing hotels and motels through policies, investments, and eco-tourism and agri-tourism events, and building a programs. This will help drive hotel occupancy taxes off sports tourism network. With new parks planned for Amelia Island. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES 0.4.1.. Augment, grow, and strategically evolve the tourism economy to expand the value-adding benefits of tourism to the community by creating new products and revenue streams that will create jobs, expand the economy, and improve qulty-of-place/lfe for visitors and residents. 0.4.2. Expand the Tourist Development Tax District to include all of Nassau County. 0.4.3. Explore sports-tourism, agri-tourism, eco-tourism and similar opportunities that have potential to result in new product development and off-island revenue generation. 0.4.4. Execute and implement the Amelia Island Beach Front Park Harmonization and' Visitor Experience Enhancement Initiative. 0.4.5. Create a countywide blueway plan and secure land for public access to rivers and creeks. 0.4.6. Prioritize tourism strategies that promote fewer visitors that stay in market longer and spend more money; a value VS. volume model. 0.4.7. Prioritize tourism strategies that encourage the preservation of historic places and structures, natural resources, rural lifestyle, and quality-of-place; a quality VS. quantity model. - 139 Vision 2050 Nassau County, Floridol DRAFT 05. 14.2025 OBJECTIVE 0.5 - Protect and promote agricultural operations, silvicultural operations, manufacturing, and working waterfronts to ensure they remain a foundational element of Nassau's economic base. 0.5. Outcome: Agriculture, silviculture, mdnufacturing, and working waterfront, continue to be foundational elements of Nassau's economic base. Agriculture and silviculture are important for Nassau's Manufacturing and working waterfront areas are another economy and self sufficiency in the future. These areas important element of Nassau's While contribute to flood control, provide habitats for local focused on the environmental benefits, economy. these less flora and fauna, are critical for flood control, carbon support job creation and a diversified and areas sequestration, and a reduced heat island effect. The tax base. Existing manufacturing operations high-yield should be operation of these economies should be protected supported and expanded where appropriate. through policies, incentives, and partnerships. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES 0.5.1. Protect agriculture and silviculture industries from intrusion by incompatible uses. 0.5.2. Support the financial viability of bonafide agricultural and silvicultural operations through the purchase of development rights, transfer of development rights and alternative revenue streams for dude event recreational operations, etc. ranches, venues, 0.5.3. Protect working waterfronts from conversion to residential uses. 0.5.4. Protect and support existing manufacturing operations. Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida 140 DRAFT 05.14.2025 0 0I a 0 a RESILIENCY We envision a Nassau County that is environmentally, socially, and economically resilient which protects our rich supply of natural resources, supports conservation, and creates a diversified, sustainable and resilient local economy. The County is committed to environmental protection spaces, improved access to nature, and environmental through initiatives like increasing conservation lands, education, while also protecting vital natural resources. improving stormwater management, and supporting Resiliency is key to helping the community adapt to development that prioritizes environmental care. By economic, environmental, and social changes. It is a participatingint the Community Rating System (CRS), the proactive strategy that ensures long-term sustainability, County exceeds floodplain management and building enabling the County to prepare for and respond to standards. Itsmany floodplains, wetlands, and waterways challenges while safeguarding property, investments, offer opportunities for sustainable development, green and people. 141 Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE R.1 - Protect natural resources, scenic views, and ecosystems from impending development. R.1. Outcome: Growth is directed away from environmentally sensitive lands, ecological corridors, natural floodplains, and working lands. Nassau County should continue prioritizing the and initiatives to guide development away from these protection of natural resources and the conservation vital areas. Continued political and financial support for of environmentally sensitive lands. Approximately the Conservation Land Acquisition and Management 40 percent of the County lies within a floodplain, (CLAM) Program will be essential for sustaining and 32 percent is designated as potential wetlands. conservation efforts and acquiring critical environmental Additionally, there are conservation areas and active resources. Collaborations with local, nongovernmental, agricultural lands that offer significant benefits to both nonprofit, and other govermmentalogmniations canalso the community and the environment. While growth help identify additional funding sources and incentives is expected to persist in the County and the broader for conservation initiatives. Jacksonville region, the County can implement policies ACTIONS & STRATEGIES R.1.1. Explore creating a Transfer of Development Rights program that incentivizes the transfer of residential densities away from vulnerable areas, Rural Areas, Natural & Conservation Areas, agnicuturalsiMicuture lands, and working lands consistent with the Vision 2050 Preferred Growth Scenario. R.1.2. Explore local regulations that require the clustering of residential units on development parcels away from environmentally sensitive areas and to create a network of interconnected ecological corridors (greenways). R.1.3. Aggressively pursue implementation of land conservation initiatives in Nassau through both fee simple and less than fee acquisitions to execute the Conservation Land Acquisition and Management program, Atlantic to Okefenokee Conservation Corridor, protect agricultural lands/working lands, provide access to bodies of water, and other conservation efforts. R.1.4. Prohibit the increase of residential density in the Coastal High Hazard Area. R.1.5. Maintain the minimum 60 percent Open Space requirement for all lands in a Special Flood Hazard Area and consider more effectively defining Open Space in local regulations. R.1.6. Acquire identified viewshed properties within the Timber to Tides Design Overlay. R.1.7. Consider the creation of a regional off-site mitigation area to conserve land and provide the County with mitigation credits for public infrastructure improvements. R.1.8. Consider public policy that prohibits the use of septic tanks in Special Flood Hazard Areas. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 142 DRAFT 05.14. 2025 OBJECTIVE R.2 - Increase the total acreage of land held in permanent conservation and maintain local character. R.2. Outcome: Nassau ensures the preservation of its natural resources and cultural heritage. Conservation and preservation of the natural and total acreage of land held in conservation. This effort can cultural environment was noted as paramount for help protect long-term sustainability and environmental Nassau's residents. Through continuing to support the resilience for generations to come. These lands support Conservation Land. Acquisition. and Management (CLAM) biodiversity, can help mitigate flooding impacts, and program, partnerships with nonprofit organizations, and provide opportunities for exploration, learning, and public policies, the County can continue to improve the economic development. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES R.2.1. Leverage federal, state, local, and private funding to acquire lands within the Atlanticto Okefenokee Conservation Corridor. R.2.2. Actively pursue Conservation Land Acquisition and Management (CLAM) program priority projects and other conservation opportunities outside of the CLAM program. R.2.3. Coordinate and partner with local municipalities, state and federal agencies, and local, regional and national conservation entities to maximize conservation land acquisition funding and management. R.2.4. Consider local incentives, such as a Transfer of Development Rights density bonus to encourage agricultural scale conveyance of land, extension of ecological corridors, and reduction of suburban scale development patterns in rural and natural areas. OBJECTIVE R.3 - Prepare Nassau for natural disasters. R.3. Outcome: Nassau is prepared for natural disasters. As a riverine, estuary, and beach county, Nassau is Proper planning and hazard mitigation is necessary to susceptible to natural disasters, especially those that ensure there is limited loss of life and property when a are water related, such as heavy rainfall, tropical storms, hazardous event occurs. Through having strong building and hurricanes. These events can cause major damage codes, leadership, and emergency management policies, related to flooding and wind damage. With its timber the County can better prepare for, and respond to, industry, there are also susceptibilities to wildfires. severe weather events. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES R.3.1. Utilizing the recommendations of the Vulnerability Assessment, create a long-term adaptation plan and implementation strategy to prioritize and fund projects. R.3.2. Continue to participate in the Community Rating System. R.3.3. Continue to implement and support the Local Mitigation Strategy. R.3.4. Continue to implement, and update as necessary, the Continuity of Operations Plan to minimize disruption and facilitate rapid restoration of essential services. R.3.5. Hire a Communications Manager to disseminate information and engage with the community regarding emergency preparedness and response. R.3.6. Implement increased standards for development inc definedVolume Sensitive Areas and explore thei identification of additional Volume Sensitive Areas. 143 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE R.4 - Create opportunities for healthy social interactions and networks to maintain a strong sense of community well-being and stability. R.4. Outcome: Nassau fosters a vibrant, connected community where residents have ample opportunities to build meaningful relationships, strengthen social networks, and feel supported, valued and engaged. Social interactions help to create strong community ties, on in times of need. Nassau build sense of place and sense of belonging, and can social gathering County can help facilitate help neighborhoods and thrive. by continuing to implement the parks groups By fostering and master plan, creating and offering that building better relationships amongst the community, community members together, and programs bring the County can continue to support the creation of community organizations for partnering with social capital. Strong community ties support long-term services available to residents. events, programs, and social resilience and create a network people can lean ACTIONS & STRATEGIES R.4.1. Require that the design of all parks and recreation facilities incorporate principles of High Performance Public Spaces as defined in the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan. R.4.2. Support neighborhood scale events, social engagements, and programs such as farmer's craft book clubs, seniors' night out, movies in the park, food truck rallies, etc. markets, fairs, R.4.3. Create and maintain a calendar of events across the county to facilitate consistent and social gathering and interpersonal interactions; facilitate the 'sense of community. equal opportunities for OBJECTIVE R.5 - Maintain a Nassau County that is safe and family-friendly. R.5. Outcome: Nassau is safe and family-friendly. Public safety is a key driver in quality of life. Ensuring As the population continues to the County has safe roadways, quick response times, important to maintain expand, it will be a safe and family adequate staffing, and proper site design all contribute community through investments in friendly to a community's sense of safety. The County can expand community-oriented events, improve infrastructure, recreation employ Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design programming opportunities, and (CPTED) techniques when designing new public places. cohesion in the community. encourage social A community can feel safer when there are more connections and cohesion among its inhabitants. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES R.5.1. Continue to invest in public safety. R.5.2. Continue to support and promote affordable family-friendly events and activities. R.5.3. Expand access to free County sponsored family-friendly activities and events. R.5.4. Provide safe and walkable streets. R.5.5. Increase access to public parks and recreational programing. R.5.6. Support local schools and nonprofits who provide afterschool and summer care. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 144 DRAFT 05. 14.2025 OBJECTIVE R.6 - Create economic resiliency by diversifying the tax base; equipping the workforce with the skills and education needed to thrive in a changing economy; and strengthening public infrastructure as a means to attract private investment. R.6. Outcome: Nassau secures long-term economic prosperity and resilience for its residents and businesses. Creating economic resiliency necessitates a needed to thrive in a changing economy is another multifaceted approach, beginning with diversifying essential component of creating economic resiliency. the tax base to ensure a stable and robust revenue As industries evolve and new technologies emerge it stream that can weather economic changes. This is important to have training programs and vocational diversification can be achieved by attracting emerging education opportunities to empower residents to industries, supporting small businesses, and fostering adapt and excel. Additionally, strengthening public innovation through tax incentives and grants. infrastructure, such as transportation networks, utilities, Equipping the workforce with the skills and education and digital connectivity, can attract private investment and stimulate economic growth while also enhancing the quality of life for residents. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES R.6.1. Nassau County will adopt a 2050 Comprehensive Plan that identifies and entitles future employment centers consistent with the Vision 2050 Preferred Growth Scenario. R.6.2. Strengthen partnerships with educational institutions, trade groups, nonprofits, and the business community to expand vocational programs, development of skilled trades, and to create a workforce pipeline that supports target industries. R.6.3. Invest in infrastructure in or near designated employment centers to create shovel-ready sites. OBJECTIVE R.7 - Improve stormwater management systems, water quality, and support sustainable development techniques. R.7. Outcome: Stormwater management adequately protects the natural and built environments and promotes sustainable growth. Effective stormwater management helps prevent flooding stormwater management to promote sustainable growth and pollution, and improves water quality. Nassau County's and reduce the effects of rain events. Stormwater ponds, new Stormwater Drainage Department is creating an which have been required in Florida for new developments inventory of the current stormwater system, including for years, are designed to manage runoff but can also drainage easements and culverts. Once the system is fully serve multiple purposes, such as providing open space and understood, the County can implement best practices for protecting local biodiversity. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES R.7.1. Consider creating new and expanding Volume Sensitive Areas. R.7.2. Maintain the existing 60 percent Open Space requirement for lands in a Special Flood Hazard Area. R.7.3. Update the 2012 countywide stormwater management plan. R.7.4. Consider master stormwater plans for specific areas, e.g. Timber to Tides Design Overlay. R.7.5. Continue to partner with the City of Fernandina Beach to create a master stormwater plan for Amelia Island. R.7.6. Support the restoration of degraded wetlands and promote the establishment of aquifer recharge areas. R.7.7. Stewardship of water resources (potable, sewer, reuse, and stormwater) is managed to promote business and job growth. R.7.8. Stewardship of water resources (potable, sewer, reuse, and stormwater) is managed to protect environmentally sensitive areas. 145 Vision 2050 - Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 OBJECTIVE R.8 - Implement landscaping and site design standards to reduce heat absorption and improve air quality. R.8. Outcome: Nassau mitigates the urban heat island effect, allowing for cleaner air to breathe, and creating a more comfortable environment for residents. Nassau County is home to state parks, forests, a The County can take steps to further national preserve, wildlife management areas, and natural environment. A tree assessment improve the local parks. In addition to these natural areas, the tree inventorying the trees in canopy the involves canopy and landscaped spaces contribute to the their number, species, age, and health. community, This including environment. While development has removed some determine the environmental and economic benefits data helps of the native vegetation, County code requirements the tree canopy and identifies areas where of ensure vegetation, landscape buffers, and open space trees could be planted to new native are included in new developments. improve coverage. ACTIONS & STRATEGIES R.8.1. Maintain and expand partnerships to plant trees and native landscapes on public lands and rights-of-way. R.8.2. Consider expanded funding for the Amelia Island Tree Planting Program. R.8.3. Consider amendments to local land development regulations to increase the number of trees and concrete parking areas. required in asphalt R.8.4. Consider public policy that provides incentives and flexible land development regulations for native landscapes and tree cover. maintaining R.8.5. Through conservation programs, secure native landscapes and mature forests in perpetuity. Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida 146 DRAFT 05.14.2025 Implementation ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES County Commission, County staff, and the Planning The success of the Vision Plan will be measured through and Zoning Board should assess all decision-making and thei implementation. actions. The planing process ensures recommendations for consistency with the Vision Plan that future development can occur in an organized and as outlined below. consolidated fashion, The future of Nassau County will be shaped by the policies and recommendations laid out in this plan. County Commission (BOCC) > Adopting amendments to the Plan by ordinance Vision 2050's directives will often require interpretation, adaptability, and flexibility. The recommendations > Adopting new or amended land development should be thoughtfully approached and evaluated based regulations to implement the plan on compliance and implementation with the goals and > Approving inter-local agreements initiatives set forth within this plan. > Establishing the overall action priorities and County representatives, staff, and dedicated citizens timeframes for initiation and completion make up the "champions" of the plan. Their roles are > Considering and approving funding crucialto the effective implementationofthe, plan. Onthe commitments right is a sidebar to discuss the roles and responsibilities > Approving projects, activities and budgets in a of various groups in correlation with the plan. manner consistent with this plan > Providing policy direction to the Planning & Zoning Board, other boards, and County staff PARTNERING FOR SUCCESS Implementation will need coordination from a host County Staff of community leaders, including individual citizens, > Managing day-to-day implementation of the appointed and elected officials, and outside agencies. plan, including ongoing coordination Recognizing that the County has a responsibility to > Supporting and carrying out capital partner with all local, state, and federal public and improvement planning efforts private organizations that can assist in bettering Nassau County is essential for its growth and development. At a > Managing drafting of new or amended land minimum, this includes cooperation with: development regulations > Conducting studies and developing additional Nassau County elected and appointed officials; plans > County administration and staff > Reviewing development, zoning, and other land Nassau County Prosperity Alliance use applications for consistency with this plan > Municipalities (Callahan, Hilliard, Fernandina Beach) Florida Department of Transportation Planning and Zoning Board (PZB) North Florida Transportation Planning >> Making recommendations related to Organization development and redevelopment North Florida Land Trust > Ensuring that development is consistent with Nassau County School Board the vision, guiding principles, objectives, actions, and policies of this plan. 147 Vision 2050 I Nassau County, Florida DRAFT 05.14.2025 BENCHMARKING AND MONITORING The County will monitor the plan implementation FIVEYEAR UPDATE activities and the corresponding effects on the community environment, prosperity, and livability. The purpose of the update is to evaluate the original Creating a benchmarking and monitoring system will assumptions from the plan regarding growth and keep a record of the accomplishments and measure development trends, emerging issues, and to the successes within the County. It will also reveal any determine if remaining proposed action strategies opportunities that arise to modify or amend Vision 2050. are still relevant. The five year update should include the following: As part of the ongoing implementation process, benchmarking and monitoring should take plaçe regularly > A summary of plan amendments and and be summarized in a succinct report. These reports accomplishments to date; should include a status update on the implementation, >> Changes in trends and issues the important actions and accomplishments occurring over since the past year, and identification and recommendation previous plan adoption (e.g., changes in the of needed actions and programs to be created and predicted growth rate and the corporate implemented in the coming year. This report should be boundaries; demographic composition; presented with other County performance reports. community attitudes; or other social, environmental, or political issues which may affect the feasibility of implementation); > Conflicts between decisions made PLAN UPDATE and implementation actions yet to be As the County evolves, the plan has the flexibility to undertaken; change to maintain community support and relevancy. In > Changes in law, procedures, or programs order to remain consistent with the community's vision which will affect identified implementation and growth expectations, implementation must allow for actions; and adjustments over time. It is recommended that the Plan > A comprehensive re-evaluation of the be revisited at five-year intervals, with a comprehensive Implementation Action Plan, update in ten-years, unless otherwise identified as not needed due to the continual benchmarking and monitoring process. TEN-VEAR UPDATE The plan should be taken through a full update process everyten years. The ten-year update should include the following: > Comprehensive re-evaluation of the community's vision for the future; > Evaluation of action items from this plan that are yet to be considered; > Re-engagement of the public; > Re-analysis of the issues and trends related to community growth, transportation, land use, parks and recreation, public facilities and services, and infrastructure; and > Ar new plan of action reflective of the refined vision for the future. Vision 2050 Nassau County, Florida 148