Council approves Sandbox VR location at City Center with noise‑attenuation condition

Alpharetta City Council unanimously approved a master plan amendment and conditional use on July 28 to allow Sandbox VR, a location‑based virtual reality entertainment venue, to operate in a 4,400‑square‑foot suite at City Center (2001 Commerce Street, Suite 6HJK). Senior Planner Michael Woodman said the Central Business District future land use supports the entertainment use and that the proposal would not change the site or building and requires the same parking ratio as retail. Staff noted hours would be midday through late evening and the applicant anticipates five to six employees. Woodman told council the applicant proposed noise attenuation measures because there are residential units above the suite. “Noise attenuation measures shall be added to the ceiling within the suite with final approval by staff,” he said, referencing condition 6 in the staff recommendation. Applicant representative described acoustical wall and ceiling treatments and told council he had visited other Sandbox VR locations and could not hear activity from outside the suites at those sites. He confirmed there would be no food or beverage sales on the premises. Council members asked about sound levels and how the business would be operated during private events. The applicant said events typically do not bring in amplified music and that acoustical panels and other treatments would be installed to address sound. Councilman Mitchell asked the applicant to agree to take additional measures if neighbors complain; the applicant said he would address complaints and mitigate noise if needed. Planning Commission had recommended unanimous approval subject to the six staff conditions. Council’s vote affirmed that recommendation.