By Nick Cumberland

Planned Unit Developments or PUD’s as commonly referred to, are starting to develop along our gulf coast region. The oldest and most recognized PUD is of course Diamondhead. Enabling a wide variety of businesses and residential developments is a key part of a PUD. While some may think that combined zoning requirements may lead to businesses being placed in between residential housing, this is not the case. The ability to incorporate single-family residential, two-family residential, hospitals, recreational facilities, schools, and commercial business are all carefully planned and separated at the development stage of a PUD. Planning and Zoning governs the type of requirements all phases of construction must meet depending on their location and use. PUD’s can range in size from 100 to 2500 acres.

Some of the first PUD’s were developed in Britain in the mid 1900’s. The ability to uphold an economic base were the reasons behind their need to develop a centrally located industrial sector with the dwellings of residents close enough to support the facilities. Some of the first PUD’s in the United States were founded in Prince Georges County in Maryland and later in San Francisco.

Benefits of PUD’s vary from the ease of a shorter commute to work and school to the luxury of local restaurants, shopping, and a viable job market. Strict zoning ordinances govern the placement, size and type of business that can locate into a PUD. Heavy industrial manufacturing is typically excluded. Residential areas tend to cover most of the land space due to the need for residential housing to support such a development.

Street design is also a major consideration when forming a new PUD. Residential streets have less traffic flow than commercial areas, thus less of a need for double lane streets. The effects of single lane are experienced by the reduction in noise and the ability of families to safely enjoy their property as opposed to larger more highly traveled thoroughfares.

PUD’s can also create ecological benefits for a community. With the close proximity of commercial and residential areas, residents will use their cars less, reducing impact on the environment. The ability for families to enjoy many of the communal areas that the PUD provides can also help in children’s socialization.

With the upturn of development along the coast, PUD may see an increase in profitability for large developers. Although many still feel a need for a “country style” of living, the fact is, our land is a limited commodity that cannot reproduce. The influx of industry and inhabitants will ultimately regulate our need for land and its development. Do some research and learn about the PUD option. You may just find it is the right fit for you and your family.