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Planning panel backs rezoning for 104-unit planned residential development on Washington Road
Summary
The Columbia County Planning Commission recommended approval May 15 of a rezoning from R2 to PRD for a Washington Road parcel, approving a revised plan that reduces unit count to 104 and requires connection to county sewer and Evansstown Center architectural standards.
The Columbia County Planning Commission on May 15 recommended approval of a rezoning request to reclassify a parcel on Washington Road from R2 single-family residential to PRD (planned residential development), clearing the way for a 104-unit cottage-style housing project.
The action matters because the site sits between existing apartment complexes and near the Evans Activity Center; staff said the revised layout better fits surrounding multifamily uses and meets fire-access requirements. Planning staff recommended approval with conditions that the project connect to county sewer and meet the architectural standards for the Evansstown Center.
Danielle, a planning staff member, summarized the application and the recent revision: "This site is located on the Southwest Side of Washington Road… The original concept plan had 123 units… we did receive an updated layout, on May 2… so we are down to 104 units with this plan." The staff presentation said the developer provided a fire-truck access plan showing required turning radii and that the driveway will require a Georgia Department of Transportation permit before construction approvals.
Sean Smith, an engineer with Cranston Engineering, represented the applicant and described the project amenities and operations. "I'm Sean Smith with Cranston Engineering, 452 Ellis Street, Augusta, Georgia. I'm here to represent the developer right now. And also to answer any questions you may have," he told the commission. Smith confirmed the development will be rental units and said the site includes a pool, an office building near the pool, and common green spaces.
Commissioners discussed density and access; one commissioner asked about on-site management and rental operations. Staff noted the property falls in the future Land Use Map’s neighborhood character area but sits at the edge of the Evans Activity Center, where higher density is expected. The planning recommendation conditions require connection to county sewer and application of Evansstown Center design standards.
A motion to recommend approval with the stated conditions carried in the Planning Commission vote; the motion record shows the recommendation passed with one commissioner opposed. The recommendation will be forwarded to the Columbia County Board of Commissioners, which will hold a public hearing on June 3, 2025.
No changes to zoning or permits are final until the Board of Commissioners acts; staff noted the developer remains responsible for required DOT driveway permits and for meeting all technical plan requirements prior to construction approvals.
