Milton Community Opposes Dense Development on Highway 9 Amid Traffic and Zoning Concerns

In the heart of Milton, Georgia, the Planning Commission convened for a special meeting that stirred passionate discussions among residents and developers alike. The atmosphere was charged as community members voiced their concerns over a proposed dense development along Highway 9, which many believe contradicts the city’s vision for the Deerfield area.

One resident, expressing deep apprehension, highlighted the potential pitfalls of the project. “This development has a lot of strikes against it,” he stated, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the planned widening of Highway 9 and its implications for traffic and community aesthetics. He argued that approving the development would undermine the Deerfield vision, suggesting that it seemed like an attempt to circumvent upcoming zoning changes.

Laura Wysong, a long-time resident of the nearby Crooked Creek community, echoed these sentiments. With nearly three decades of experience living in the area, she raised critical issues regarding the proposed sewer line connections and the overall feasibility of the project. “We don’t even know if it can be done,” she remarked, pointing out the complexities involved in securing necessary approvals from Fulton County. Wysong also expressed concerns about traffic congestion, particularly the lack of traffic lights at key intersections, which could exacerbate the already challenging situation for residents.

The discussion also touched on the architectural mismatches between the proposed townhomes and the existing homes in the area. Wysong noted that the new homes, averaging 1,500 square feet, would be out of place among larger residences of 3,000 to 4,000 square feet. “That absolutely makes no sense,” she asserted, advocating for a development that would better align with community standards and desires.

Despite the strong opposition from residents, the developer's representative, Ethan Underwood, defended the project, stating that it complies with the current zoning laws. He emphasized that townhomes are an allowed use in the designated transit zone and reassured the commission that the development would adhere to the Unified Development Code.

As the meeting drew to a close, the divide between community concerns and developer intentions remained palpable. With public comments reflecting a clear opposition, the commission faces a pivotal decision that could shape the future of Milton’s landscape. The outcome of this meeting will not only impact the proposed development but also resonate with the broader community’s vision for growth and sustainability in the years to come.