Hall County approves mixed-use rezoning plan for Ridge Road development

The Hall County Commission convened on February 28, 2025, to discuss a significant rezoning application for a 74.38-acre tract located at 0 and 4435 Ridge Road. The proposal, submitted by Scott Puckett Incorporated, seeks to change the zoning from planned residential development and suburban shopping to planned commercial development, allowing for a mixed-use development that includes commercial spaces, apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes.

This item was previously tabled during the board's meeting on February 13, 2025, and was brought back for public hearing. The Planning Commission had recommended approval of the request with 26 conditions during their meeting on December 16, 2024. While there was one speaker in opposition at the Planning Commission meeting, no written comments were received regarding the current proposal.

Tyler Smith, representing the applicant, highlighted the extensive collaboration with county staff and the Planning Commission to refine the development plan. The revised proposal includes a significant increase in commercial space from 16,000 square feet to 39,000 square feet, while reducing the number of multifamily units from 274 to 250. The development will feature a mix of residential options, including 209 townhomes and 65 detached single-family homes, with an average size of approximately 2,000 square feet for the residential units.

The design incorporates commercial spaces on the ground floors of multifamily buildings, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Additionally, a central plaza is planned as a gathering space for residents, surrounded by retail and dining options. The applicant also proposed a five-story hotel as part of the development.

Commissioners discussed the need for flexibility in the layout of the buildings, allowing for minor adjustments without requiring a return to the board for approval. The overall goal is to achieve a balanced mix of residential and commercial spaces, ideally aiming for a 50-50 ratio.

The commission ultimately moved to approve the changes to the proposal, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the community with this mixed-use development. The next steps will involve finalizing the conditions set forth by the Planning Commission and ensuring compliance with the updated site plan.