ZACHARY- People living near Highway 964 and Rollins Road could be getting 600 more houses in their area. The city's Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved a new subdivision Wednesday night called Zachary Trails.

"I think it's a well-rounded project that needed to pass," said Michael Clegg, a Baton Rouge attorney representing the developers.

Clegg said if the city is serious about economic development it needs more houses for people to live. He's at odds with some residents who hope to preserve Zachary's rural appeal.

"Zachary is an attractive place to live so with that you're going to lose your country feel, that's part of growth," he said.

Residents against the development have collected 160 signatures petitioning city leaders to halt the project in lieu of better infrastructure. Commission members questioned its impact on the surrounding neighborhoods to which Planning Director Amy Schulze testified it met the city's drainage and traffic standards.

The development sits next to another new subdivision, Meadow View, which will have 250 homes.

Nearby residents in the Fennwood neighborhood said the area didn't flood much in August 2016, however many are still concerned. "I don't know if it's good for the neighborhood," said resident Douglas McShane.

The development now goes before Zachary City Council for approval on September 12th.