A developer has submitted plans to build Water Lily, a 3,000-home, 55-plus community on 1,118 acres of farmland north of Hastings.
If approved, the Aegis-Gibson project would become the largest age-restricted community in St. Johns County, surpassing Del Webb Ponte Vedra (1,998 homes). The development would also include 280,000 square feet of commercial space, with completion expected by 2038.
Balancing Growth with Infrastructure and Environment
Aegis-Gibson says the project aims to blend residential and commercial spaces while protecting natural resources and improving local infrastructure.
“Our vision is to create a community that harmonizes residential and commercial spaces while protecting the environment and supporting the existing community through essential infrastructure improvements,” said Project Manager Ashley Allen in a September press release.
Rezoning and Environmental Considerations
The land, currently zoned as Planned Rural, would need to be rezoned as a Planned Unit Development (PUD).
The developer argues that repurposing the agricultural land would reduce fertilizer runoff into the St. Johns River while preserving:
- 275 acres of wetlands
- Existing specimen tree canopies
- More than 25,000 newly planted native trees
Additionally, the plan includes a new fire station to improve emergency response times for current residents in the area.
Development vs. Preservation Debate
Water Lily is the latest in a wave of large-scale housing proposals in one of Florida’s fastest-growing counties.
Supporters, including Allen, say that continued population growth makes new housing necessary.
“You can’t stop people from moving to St. Johns County or Northeast Florida,” she told The Citizen. She argues that projects like Water Lily will help distribute housing demand, reducing strain on places like St. Augustine.
However, critics warn that rapid development is eroding the area’s rural character, increasing traffic, and straining local resources.
At a recent public hearing on another 3,300-home project (Verde “Agrihood”), nearly 20 speakers urged county officials to slow development. The Planning and Zoning Agency unanimously recommended rejecting that project, citing unanswered concerns.
Water Lily’s developers are currently meeting with county officials and modifying their application to address community concerns. A public hearing is expected early next year.
The St. Johns County Board of Commissioners will vote on the Verde proposal next month, setting a precedent for future large-scale developments like Water Lily.
