12/7/1993 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Hurricane evacuation is addressed within the Coastal Management Element of the County's Comprehensive Plan. As indicated in that plan element, the county displayed clearance times of less than 12 hours for category 3-5 storms. This was based upon the 1988 update to the Treasure Coast Hurricane Evacuation Study. The Coastal Management Element also noted that the replacement of the Merrill Barber Bridge could reduce estimated evacuation times below 12 hours. Since construction of the new bridge has begun (with the corresponding increase from 2 to 4 lanes), the capacity enhancement- of the evacuation system is now closer to being completed. On the demand side, estimates and projections are more difficult to determine. Not only does growth on the unincorporated county portion of the barrier island affect hurricane evacuation; growth in Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid affect evacuation times. Even growth and development in Brevard and St. Lucie Counties affect evacuation times in Indian River County. It is anticipated that, between the 1991 update of the CIP and the present, the population of the barrier island portion of the county (both incorporated and unincorporated areas) increased by only 1044 residents. This is based upon 1990 census data and county projections. Based upon the estimated increase of barrier island residents, the impact on evacuation times will be minimal. Therefore, it is staff's position that no additional capital improvements are necessary to accommodate hurricane evacuation needs. The above Hurricane Evacuation Time Analysis satisfies the requirements of Future Land Use Element Policy 11.3. Therefore, the proposed -amendment is consistent with Future Land Use Element Policy 11.3. Based on the analysis performed, staff's position is that the proposed amendment is consistent with all comprehensive plan goals, objectives and policies. _ Alternatives With respect to this request, the Board of County Commissioners has three alternatives. The alternatives are: 1. Deny transmittal of this amendment to DCA. 2. Approve transmittal of this amendment to DCA. 3. Approve transmittal of this amendment, with changes, to DCA. Conclusion Staff's position is that these proposed amendments to the county's comprehensive plan will enhance the plan by providing for the efficient provision of utilities service to lands within and adjacent to the USA, and by updating the CIP as required. Also, it has been demonstrated that these amendments maintain the plan's internal consistency. For those reasons, staff feels that the Proposed amendments should be adopted. Recommendation The staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve these amendments for transmittal to DCA for their review. 76 DEC BOOK 91 F., JF 179