Marietta City Council reviews PR Land LLC's 190 townhome rezoning proposal

The Marietta City Council meeting on March 12, 2025, focused on a significant rezoning request from PR Land LLC and Freeman Growth LLC. The proposal seeks to rezone 38.64 acres along Horizon Lane and Wilshire Avenue from Light Industrial to Planned Residential Development Single Family (PRDSF) for a new 190-unit townhome community.

During the meeting, representatives from Piedmont Residential, the local home builder behind the project, presented their case. JT Igel, a spokesperson for the company, emphasized that the development would have a density of nine units per acre, which he noted would be the least dense comparable PRDSF zoning in Marietta. Igel assured the council that they are not seeking any variances that would increase density or reduce open space and recreational areas.

A key point of contention addressed during the meeting was the characterization of the property’s floodplain. Igel refuted claims that 70% of the land is in a floodplain, stating that current FEMA data indicates only 45% is affected. He clarified that no residential units would be built in the floodplain and that the development would include a multi-use field and walking trails in the floodplain area, as recommended by city staff.

Traffic concerns were also raised, with Igel arguing that the projected increase in local traffic due to the new development has been exaggerated. He stated that the development would only increase traffic on local streets by 40%.

The council's decision on this rezoning request will have implications for the community's growth and development, as it represents a shift from industrial to residential use in the area. The council will continue to evaluate the proposal and its potential impact on the neighborhood.