New Shoreline Management Plan Clears Way For Big Plans On Lake Eufaula

Development of Lake Eufaula is moving forward. The Corps of Engineers' new shoreline management plan basically sets rules for development on the lake. It also clears the way for big plans for the next phase on the multi-million dollar Carlton Landing project.

After a two-year study, including public feedback, the Corps of Engineers has approved a shoreline management plan for Lake Eufaula. It's like a city zoning plan for the lake and allows limited development along 265 miles of shoreline.

The developers of Carlton Landing are pleased.

"It opens the door for us to approach the Corps and do a long term lease on about 700 acres around Carlton Landing that includes about eight miles of shoreline," said Grant Humphreys.

Carlton Landing is a 1,600-acre development on the south side of the lake. There are plans for as many as 3,000 built over 30 years.

It's what is called a "new urbanism" project, in a natural setting.

5/7/2012 Related Story: Development On Lake Eufaula Puts Emphasis On The Past

"Reconnect people to the natural environment," Humphreys said. "We think that connection has been lost in the last couple of generations."

The cottages have porches and are built close to streets and boardwalks, to encourage a pedestrian-friendly environment.

"It's designed around people, not the automobile," Humphreys said.

The neighborhood has plenty of shared spaces like pools, a community garden and even a public elementary school.

Right now, 16 homes are finished, 19 more are being built and 31 lots are sold.

The new Corps plan clears the way for Carlton Landing to take its next phase, including building trails for walking and horseback riding, a nature center, and a marina, which would begin operating in 2014.

"Access to the lake is an important element. With this permission that we are now moving forward with, with the Corps, to create this new marina, we're looking at up to 300 slips," Humphreys said.

Developers think the Corps' management plan will help to create a world class community surrounded by Oklahoma beauty.

Future plans for Carlton Landing also include an amphitheater, 150 seat chapel, and a conference and retreat center.