Commission holds vote on large Atlanta Highway planned‑development amendment for 30 days

Athens‑Clarke County commissioners voted May 6 to hold for one commission cycle (30 days) a requested amendment to a planned development covering roughly 200.5 acres at 450–4530 Atlanta Highway and 125 Bedgood Road.

Developer representatives told the commission the amendment would increase residential density and make the plan more feasible after two decades without construction — arguing the changes would expand walkability, access to green space and transit connections. “This amendment could make a major impact to our housing crisis, and we feel it does strike a good balance between the needs and desires of this community,” said Scott Haines of W&A Engineering at the podium.

Commissioners who supported the hold said they wanted a dedicated public forum for District 6 residents and more time to examine proposed waivers, building form and a development timeline that the applicant said could span eight to 10 years. Commissioner Johnson noted the scale — “207 acres in total and 925 residential units” — and asked for public engagement specific to the district. Commissioner Link said he favored the project’s potential but wanted the additional time; several commissioners asked staff to prepare clarifying materials on waivers and conditions.

Attorney Drake read an ordinance describing the requested change to the future land‑use and zoning designations. The motion to hold passed unanimously, and the matter will return to the commission in June for further consideration.