Escambia County advances vote on massive Beulah development plan

The Escambia County Commission unanimously approved moving forward with a controversial development proposal last week, paving the way for a final hearing next month on the sprawling Outlying Fields (OLF-8) project.

All five commissioners voted to advance an ordinance that would adopt the master plan and design code for the 540-acre property in Beulah. The move sets up a final hearing scheduled for November 5, when the commission will consider formally approving the framework.

The Outlying Fields project has drawn attention from residents and planning advocates concerned about the scope of development on the county's outskirts. The master plan and design code will guide how the massive parcel is developed over time.