Kernersville planning board approves highway business rezoning for Food Lion outparcel

In the heart of Kernersville, a pivotal discussion unfolded during the Town Board of Aldermen meeting on December 3, 2024, as officials considered a significant rezoning request for an outparcel at the Food Lion site. The proposal aims to transition the zoning from limited business special to highway business conditional, a move that could reshape the commercial landscape of the area.

The outparcel, just over an acre in size, is poised to accommodate a new restaurant with drive-through service, a notable addition to the previously approved uses from a 2021 rezoning. This change is not merely a formality; it reflects a broader vision for the town's development, aligning with the intent of the highway corridor overlay district, which seeks to enhance the aesthetic and functional quality of major thoroughfares.

As the meeting progressed, the board examined the implications of this rezoning. The surrounding area is predominantly zoned for limited business, with the proposed changes sparking discussions about maintaining the character of the neighborhood while accommodating growth. The applicant's request for modifications to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) requirements, specifically regarding parking lot connectivity, was also a focal point. Instead of a traditional automobile connection, an internal pedestrian pathway is proposed, promoting walkability and community interaction.

The town's land use plan designates this area as commercial neighborhood, aimed at fostering non-intrusive commercial development that serves nearby residential areas. While the requested highway business zoning does not directly align with this designation, town staff expressed confidence that the proposed site plan and conditions would still meet the overarching goals of the land use plan.

Public input during the meeting highlighted a shift in community sentiment. Raymond Thomas, a local representative, noted the absence of opposition during neighborhood discussions, a rarity in past zoning cases. His remarks underscored a collaborative spirit between the applicant and the community, suggesting a growing acceptance of new developments that align with the town's vision.

As the board deliberated, they recognized the potential benefits of the rezoning, not only for the immediate area but also for the broader economic landscape of Kernersville. The planning board had previously voted in favor of the request, reinforcing the notion that this development could serve as a catalyst for further growth and revitalization.

In conclusion, the Kernersville Board of Aldermen's meeting illuminated the delicate balance between development and community character. With the proposed rezoning, the town stands at a crossroads, poised to embrace new opportunities while honoring the values that define its neighborhoods. As the final decision looms, residents and officials alike await the outcome, hopeful for a future that harmonizes growth with the community's needs.