GOSHEN TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WKRC) — A proposed major housing and retail development in Goshen Township is raising concerns among local residents and business owners about potential traffic issues.

The development would replace the 163-acre Eagles Nest Public Golf Course with 127 townhomes, 208 single-family homes, and several apartment buildings. Additionally, the plan includes up to five restaurants, a grocery store, a gas station, a car wash, and a bank office.

Bruce Mills, owner of Premier Pools and Spas located across Route 28 from the golf course, expressed mixed feelings about the project.

“But for us, there are pros and cons with everything. We’re excited—more houses, more pools that we can put in, so that’s great. But on the other side, traffic is already bad here,” Mills said. “It’s going to be good for a lot of businesses around here, bringing more people in, and probably good for the schools in some way, but it is definitely going to put pressure on just getting out of my parking lot.”

Bill Welsch, a resident of Goshen Township, shared similar concerns. He texted that he is already struggling with high property taxes and wonders if the new homes will receive tax abatements. Welsch also expressed frustration with the current traffic situation on Route 28.

A traffic study is required to assess the impact of the project, and the township, county, and state transportation agencies will coordinate any necessary improvements to the surrounding highways and roads. The Goshen Township Zoning Commission approved the zoning change needed for the project on Tuesday.

Goshen Township administrator Bob Rose declined comment, as did Trustee Bob Hausermann, who said he is waiting for the proposal to come before the full board of trustees. Indeed, the project still requires final approval from the Goshen Township Board of Trustees, which is expected to review it later in September.

Representatives from Drees Homes, the builder behind the development, did not respond to requests for comment.

If the project receives approval by the township trustees, Clermont County leaders will review the design and construction plans, which may include modifications based on the traffic study. The county could also negotiate with the developer to finalize any necessary changes.