Residents urge Cobb County board to reconsider new 55-plus housing development plans

Concerns over traffic and environmental impact dominated the Cobb County Planning Commission meeting on May 6, 2025, as residents voiced their apprehensions regarding a proposed development by Revive. Community members urged the board to reconsider the project, emphasizing the need to address existing traffic issues before adding more strain on taxpayer-funded roads.

One resident highlighted the importance of evaluating current infrastructure, stating, “Can we really take a look at this before we bone ourselves with more traffic problems in Cobb County?” This sentiment resonated with others who fear that the new development could exacerbate already challenging conditions.

The discussion also touched on the proposed 55 and older designation for the development. Residents expressed skepticism about the long-term viability of such a project, suggesting that legally binding deed restrictions be put in place to ensure it remains a senior community. “This feels like trying to fit a round peg in a square hole,” one speaker remarked, questioning the necessity of additional senior housing given the existing options in Cobb County.

Julia Fednander, another local resident, echoed these concerns, pointing out that numerous independent living communities already serve the senior population in the area. She also raised issues regarding environmental impacts and safety, particularly around the proposed site’s entrances, which are heavily trafficked by school buses.

As the meeting concluded, residents called for a thoughtful approach from the board, urging them to weigh the potential benefits against the community's existing challenges. The outcome of this discussion could significantly influence future development plans in Cobb County, as residents seek to protect their neighborhoods from further congestion and environmental strain.