This week, Henry County considered a rezoning request asking for new apartments along state route 155. The property’s current zoning would allow for a new warehouse to build. This question, whether to see a new warehouse or apartments build, left the commissioners divided.
Not far down the road, MHF News reported Thursday another piece of property will build out later this year for a new distribution center. It had an industrial zoning from twenty plus years ago.
Warehouse or Apartments
The property in question consists of 47 acres off highway 155. Its located west of Greenwood Industrial in the Luella area. The land had industrial zoning since at least 2013. A distribution center could build on the property had the county made no change in zoning.
Alliance Residential Company of Atlanta, GA submitted the rezoning request. They sought to rezone the property to RM (multifamily residential). The proposed development had 330 units, or a net density of 7.92 units per acre. It is worth noting this is less than half the density the county comp plan would otherwise support on the property. The county’s comp plan supports up to 16 units per acre at the location.
The county commissioners voted 3-2 to approve the rezoning request. Prior to the vote, Commissioner Wilson acknowledged he favored the zoning as is because a warehouse causes less demand on public services. His remarks received a round of applause from community members there opposed to new apartments. Chair Harrell countered with concerns about added truck traffic. Chair Harrell, Commissioners Anglyn and Lewis, in whose district the property sits, voted in favor to rezone. Commissioners Thomas and Wilson voted in opposition.
Development Details
The proposed development plans two vehicle access points off highway 155. The primary access will be at the relatively new traffic light at Greenwood. A second right-out only access will be further south.
The applicant plans to preserve 32 out of the 47 acres as green space. A large portion in the rear of the property will be left untouched. Amenities include a resort-style swimming pool, dog park, walking trails, fitness facility, children’s playground and shared office / event space.
The development will consist of 50% one bedroom and 50% two bedroom units. Minimum square footages are 640 sq ft and 1,050 sq ft, respectively. The applicant did not give estimated rental rates.
Building exteriors visible from highway 155 must be a majority brick, stone and / or stucco. Specifically, cement fiberboard may be no more than 30% of the facade. Other buildings can have a greater share of cement fiberboard, but must retain at least 30% brick or stone.
As part of the project zoning conditions, construction cannot begin until after the current multifamily moratorium ends.
Featured image shows the location of two upcoming developments along SR 155, one each for apartments at Greenwood Industrial and a new distribution center near Prologis Park Road. Google satellite image.
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