Aegis Gibson LLC has proposed plans for Water Lily, a significant new development that is set to reshape the landscape of St. Johns County.
This master-planned community spans approximately 1,118 acres, located at the intersection of County Road 214 and State Road 13 North, within the West County Road 214 area. The project will combine residential and commercial spaces in an integrated environment, while blending seamlessly with the county's natural surroundings and addressing critical infrastructure needs.
Water Lily is located adjacent to the St. Johns River, with its current land use focused on farming. The transition from agricultural land to residential use will drastically reduce fertilizer runoff into the river, according to the developer. As part of the project’s commitment to sustainability, advanced stormwater management systems will be incorporated to further protect the river and surrounding ecosystems.
The development will offer up to 3,000 homes, with a diverse range of housing options, alongside 280,000 square feet of mixed-use commercial space. This area will provide essential neighborhood goods and services to residents.
In addition to this, the project will preserve more than 275 acres of wetlands, maintain canopies of specimen trees and plant more than 25,000 native trees, a significant environmental enhancement as much of the current land has been used for farming, leaving it without tree cover, according to the developer.
A key feature of Water Lily is its commitment to supporting the existing community. There are roughly 400 residential homes near the project, some of which are currently as far as 10 miles from the nearest fire station. Water Lily will construct a new fire station, improving safety for both future residents and those in the surrounding area.
Another major benefit is the development of an onsite water and wastewater treatment plant, which will be handed over to the county for operation. This facility will not only serve the Water Lily community but will also extend services to neighboring homes, many of which currently rely on septic tank systems.
The development will also dedicate riverfront property to St. Johns County, enhancing public access to the St. Johns River and providing new recreational opportunities. Water Lily’s infrastructure will feature comprehensive road systems, utilities, drainage and stormwater management, all designed to support the long-term sustainability and functionality of the community.
The project will include age-restricted housing, which will ensure minimal impact on local schools and minimize traffic compared to typical residential developments. The project is expected to be completed in phases over several years, with each phase ensuring careful planning and the preservation of natural resources.
“We are excited to bring the Water Lily project to St. Johns County,” said Ashley Allen, director of operations at Aegis Gibson. “Our vision is to create a community that harmonizes residential and commercial spaces while protecting the environment and supporting the existing community through essential infrastructure improvements.”
With its blend of housing, commercial space, preserved natural areas, and critical infrastructure enhancements, Water Lily is poised to meet the needs of St. Johns County’s growing population while safeguarding its natural heritage, the developer said.
