Large Avenel Crossing proposal may require planning commission review as major subdivision

City planning staff told the Athens City Planning Commission on Oct. 1 that a proposed development referred to in the meeting as Avenel Crossing is under review to determine whether it will meet the city’s definition of a major subdivision and therefore require Planning Commission approval.

Staff said the proposal is a LITEC development proposed off U.S. 50 and Hooper Road with access to Avenel Drive and that the developer describes the plan as a YTECH housing project. Planners are asking for additional information, including which easements across adjoining parcels would be needed to connect to public utilities; those easement requirements could determine whether the project qualifies as a major subdivision.

Planning staff reported they had an initial meeting with the development team and issued a list of questions and clarification items; the developer has acknowledged the questions and is working on responses but has not yet supplied all requested information. If staff determines the proposal is a major subdivision, the applicant will need to submit formal subdivision plats and appear before the Planning Commission for public hearings.

Staff said they will continue to gather information and will notify the commission if a formal application is forthcoming. No formal action was taken by the commission at the Oct. 1 meeting.