
A new townhomes development on Jonesboro Road obtained zoning approval in June 2024. The plans also call for a grocery store or retail space to locate at the intersection with Oak Grove Road.
The initial proposal had apartments as well. The developer removed the apartments following discussions with the county.
Jonesboro Road at Oak Grove Road Townhomes
WC Acquisitions, LLC of Atlanta, GA applied for the rezoning of thirty acres. They sought the rezoning from RA (residential agricultural) to MU (mixed use). William Casaday represented the project.
Casaday is associated with South City Partners. This would be the company’s second project on Jonesboro Road. They also constructed Crofthouse McDonough apartments. Crofthouse broke ground in 2022; they are now leasing units.
The rezoning application was submitted in June 2023. The zoning advisory board considered it in December. At the time, the applicant was proposing a mixed apartments, townhomes and retail space development. The original plan had up to 435 housing units. The ZAB recommended denial.
Fast-forward to June 2024. The applicant revised their plan to remove the apartments, following discussions with county planning & zoning staff. Instead, their revised plan has townhomes and retail space. There are 260 townhome units.
The townhomes will be for-sale units. The estimated price point is in the mid to upper $300 thousands. There is a rental cap of no more than 10% in the zoning conditions.
The developer estimates construction can start during the first six months of 2025. The first townhomes would be available to purchase around mid-2026. Finally, construction would conclude in mid-2027.
Grocery Store or Retail Space
For the retail component, the site plan illustrates a 27,000 square foot grocery store. No specific company was named. Should that not occur, the developer can build general retail space. The project’s zoning conditions prohibit various uses. Prohibited uses include gas stations, drive-thru only fast-food restaurants and car washes.
Constructing retail space on the east side of I-75 could help to reduce traffic congestion, according to the developer. This is because residents would have more options without needing to cross the interstate. The county’s SPLOST VI program is also contemplating widening projects on Jonesboro Road and Oak Grove Road / Willow Lane.
Board Comments and Vote
County Chair Harrell asked the developer whether they would consider installing sprinkler systems in the townhomes. This is a common question asked by Commissioner Wilson on townhomes as well. Mr. Casaday replied he did not consider sprinkler systems necessary in a two-story townhome, and they would increase costs to the homebuyer. The state fire code does not require sprinkler systems in townhomes.
Commissioner Anglyn remarked the property was the ideal location because “[residential] density needs to be close to the interstate.” He asked about green space, and sought more green space within the project. Casaday responded there would be opportunities to incorporate more green space during site engineering & final design. Finally, Commissioner Anglyn expressed an interest in condo units or ”something different.”
Commissioner Lewis, who represents the west side of I-75 in the project’s vicinity, shared Crofthouse McDonough was “probably the only apartment complex” he likes in Henry County. This is based on their exterior finish and amenities. He too was interested in seeing more green space.
Commissioner Price, in whose district the property is located, made a motion to approve the rezoning request. The motion passed by a 4-2 vote. Commissioners Wilson and Anglyn voted in opposition.
Featured image shows the site plan for Jonesboro Road at Oak Grove Road townhomes. B+C Studio photo.
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