Developers apparently passed one hurdle to build a high density development along Shell Toomer Parkway in South Auburn. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources sold the right to enter the development from the Parkway.

DCNR Commissioner Barnett Lawley on December 5 sold Parkway access to the multi-million dollar Summit development, despite the availability of frontage on another road, for $10,478.50 according to documents obtained by Access Auburn. The contract grants two "driveway easements" on Shell Toomer Parkway for the 637 unit development.

The action may not be legal in the absence of specific rules for performing such actions. State law requires procedures to be documented and followed for such action and apparently none exist for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to grant the access. The law also requires the Commissioner to act in the best interest of the Parkway. In the past no access has been granted where alternate access was available.

In December, the Auburn Planning Commission approved rezoning of the land to a Planned Development District (PDD) that would allow the higher density development--up to five units per acre along Shell Toomer Parkway--and permit building 140 condos on the property. The matter will go to the full council for final approval in January.