The Washington Planning & Zoning Commission in Missouri denied a proposal on May 13 to allow gravel roads in a proposed RV park, maintaining city codes that mandate paved surfaces. The proposal is near the intersection of Westlink Drive and West Main Street.
Gregg Gross’s project, initially approved in 2023 but delayed by budget constraints, sought to cut costs by using gravel instead of asphalt. Rick Rohlfing of BFA, a consulting civil engineering firm, presented the request on behalf of Gross.
Rohlfing explained that the intent was to lay gravel initially and pave the roads later, referencing other RV parks that use gravel surfaces. The proposed RV park site features a 95-foot elevation change. Initial guidance suggested 20-foot-wide streets, but city requirements now mandate 26-foot-wide fire access roads.
However, the commission expressed concerns about deviating from city codes. As reported by Emissourian on May 22, Commissioner John Borgmann emphasized the importance of following existing ordinances.
“The only concern I have, and for the rest of the commission too, is we have the city codes that have been adopted, and I don’t know that we have the authority to make that change to the city code and allow a 20-foot road,” Borgmann said.
He added that he did not want to set any precedents and stressed the importance of ensuring all regulations were thoroughly followed, while also expressing his support for the RV park as a beneficial addition to the community.
Another concern was raised by Washington Fire Chief Tim Frankenberg. He indicated that his main concern with the project was not the 20-foot-wide street proposal but rather the access and suitability of the surface for heavy trucks. He explained that these trucks are designed for hard surfaces.
The rejection of the RV park’s gravel roads proposal highlights the importance of strictly adhering to local codes and regulations when planning new developments. Understanding and integrating local requirements into plans is crucial to avoiding costly delays and rejections. Compliance with city codes helps facilitate smoother approval processes.
Furthermore, meticulous planning and foresight are essential for successful project execution. Proactive discussions with city officials and early feedback enable owners to navigate the complexities of development projects more effectively and avoid rejection.