Changes approved for portion of Sky Ranch project in Spanish Valley

The San Juan County Planning Commission has approved amendments to Phase One of the Sky Ranch Airstrip Development, a 30-lot development built around the Sky Ranch Airstrip in Spanish Valley.
The commission approved the changes to the six lots in Phase One but tabled approval of Phase Two until the next meeting.
Phase Two would seek approval for approximately 24 additional lots surrounding the 3,000-plus foot private runway on the east side of Spanish Valley.
Developer Mike Bynum states that he will amend the plans and the road for the project after questions were raised about Phase Two at an April 12 meeting of the Planning Commission.
The project is becoming a flash point for arguments regarding development in Spanish Valley. The area, which has had little planning and zoning in the past, is expected to experience significant growth, as the Moab area continues to grow.
A number of other development projects are in the planning phase, even as water and sewer infrastructure is coming to the area.
San Juan County is working with Landmark Designs, a consulting company that is developing a master plan for the growth of Spanish Valley. 
In addition to the developments on private ground in Spanish Valley, the Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration (SITLA) may develop their significant holdings in the valley. Much of Spanish Valley is in San Juan County, just across the Grand County line.
The Planning Commission approved the changes to Phase One, which increased the size of the lots from one to 1.2-acres each. The initial plan was approved several years ago for use of the private airstrip, which was built by Bud Tangren in the 1970s.
Bynum said that with the approval of the changes for Phase One, he intends to start developing the six lots.
Concerns expressed about Phase Two include the distance between the end of the runway and a public road.
Bynum said he continues to interact with neighbors who live near the project.
“We are getting significant input and suggestions on the… homeowner association rules for the development,” said Bynum.
“There have been meaningful suggestions and help with the development. We welcome that.”

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