Creating outstanding neighborhoods uniquely integrated with nature

Palmer Ranch Master Plan

A project of this scale typically presents many challenges, but through creative planning and coordination, Stantec was able to anticipate issues and find the most appropriate solutions to enhance community cohesiveness and create outstanding neighborhoods uniquely integrated with nature. For example, the environmental systems plan established baseline information and strategies for stormwater management, floodplains, native habitats, rare and endangered species, and historical and archeological sites before the land use plans were developed. This green infrastructure system enhanced area-wide benefits for habitat management, regional stormwater systems, and water quality improvement.

A 7,002-acre master planned development, Palmer Ranch includes a mix of residential units, industrial uses, commercial and office uses, and recreational areas. There is a system of greenways and blueways which connect to a regional rails-to-trails network, linking to a state park, gulf beaches, and the downtown area of Venice. The project’s environmental systems plan has received national recognition and has been used as a model for environmental planning nationally.