A proposed large-scale housing development that drew strong opposition from local residents was rejected by the Bartow City Commission Monday night.

The plan would have allowed for more than 2,200 new homes on land in the northeastern part of the city and adjacent unincorporated areas. The developer, CBD Real Estate Investment, needed multiple land-use changes — including annexation into city limits, rezoning, and amendments to future land-use designations — for the project to proceed. Commissioners voted unanimously to deny all requests tied to the proposal.

The meeting at Bartow City Hall included hours of public comment, with many longtime residents urging officials to reject the plan. Opponents raised concerns over strained infrastructure, including water capacity, local school overcrowding, emergency services, and road conditions, saying the community may not be prepared for rapid growth.

Supporters of the development, including representatives for the developer, argued the project reflected intentional, planned growth for the city’s expanding boundaries. Still, commissioners sided with residents’ objections.

With the proposal denied, it cannot move forward as currently drafted. Developers could choose to revise and resubmit a future application, but no new plans have been announced.

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