Hall County Planning Commission approves Athens Highway industrial rezoning with variances

A significant decision emerged from the Hall County Planning Commission meeting on April 7, 2025, as the commission approved a series of variances and conditions for a major development project on Athens Highway. The proposal, which includes the construction of multiple warehouse buildings and a gravel storage lot, aims to transform a 99.24-acre site previously used as a soccer field into an industrial hub.

The commission granted a variance allowing for a 20-foot landscape strip along Athens Highway, requiring a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees for screening. Additionally, a variance was approved for gravel storage, with all outdoor storage needing to comply with the Gateway Corridor Overlay District (GCOD) standards. Notably, the commission stipulated that while the front and side elevations of the buildings must meet GCOD standards, the rear elevations, where loading docks are located, may feature metal siding if not visible from the highway.

The applicant, Hughes Commercial Real Estate, represented by Cooper Flood, emphasized the project's alignment with Hall County's comprehensive plan, which supports industrial development in designated business nodes. Flood highlighted the anticipated benefits for local contractors and suppliers, stating that the development would not increase demand for public services due to planned septic systems.

The commission's recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Commissioners for final action at a public hearing scheduled for May 8, 2025. This meeting will be crucial for community members and stakeholders, as it will determine the project's future and its potential impact on the local landscape and economy.