A proposal that could allow significantly larger commercial development along a section of U.S. 1 North is drawing concern from nearby residents as it heads to a hearing.
The request involves a vacant 10.25-acre parcel at the corner of U.S. 1 North and Abbotts Way at the Las Calinas development.
The property has been set aside for neighborhood-scale commercial use since 2005, but the owner is now asking to increase the maximum size of future buildings from 19,000 square feet to 49,000 square feet.
A sizable number of residents of the neighboring Kensington community have contacted county officials to oppose the request.
Their concerns focus on increased traffic, access complications from Abbotts Way, environmental impacts, and uncertainty about what kinds of businesses could be built if the change is approved.
Several residents asserted that the lack of a specific development plan makes it difficult to understand how the project would affect the neighborhood.
County planning staff note that no specific business, building design, or tenant is being proposed at this time.
The request only seeks to change how much commercial space would be allowed. Any future development would still require detailed site plans, traffic review, and permits before construction could begin.
Staff also point out that the site is the only commercial parcel within the Las Calinas development and one of the few remaining locations along a lengthy stretch of U.S. 1 North where commercial uses are permitted.
Access from Abbotts Way is identified as a sensitive issue, in part because land between the road and the site is owned by the Kensington homeowners association, according to papers filed with the county.
The Planning and Zoning Agency is scheduled to hear the proposal this Thursday, followed by a County Commission hearing on February 17, 2026, where there will be public testimony.
