Board extends Avalon Square PUD vesting rights two years

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved Resolution 2025-05 to extend vesting rights for the Avalon Square planned unit development at the Cool Springs Boulevard and East McEwen Drive roundabout by two years, to March 12, 2027. The motion passed 6-1; Alderman Burger moved the resolution, Alderman Barnhill seconded, and Alderman Brown cast the sole no vote.

Chelsea, a city staff member presenting the item, said the requested extension would allow the applicant to secure final plan approval, necessary permits, and begin site preparation. The current development plan was previously vested as of March 12, 2019; the board in March 2022 granted a three-year extension to March 12, 2025. The plan covers all four sides of the Cool Springs/McEwen roundabout and proposes about 614 dwellings, 428,75 square feet of nonresidential space, a mix of townhomes and multifamily, retail spaces including a movie theater, a food hall, a big-box retailer, a daycare, and a gas station. The plan requested seven modifications related to retaining wall material or height; staff noted six of those were approved.

Chelsea told the board that if vesting is not extended the project entitlements would cease, stop-work orders could be issued, and the project would need to be resubmitted and reviewed under current local development standards. The board's planning commission (FMPC) recommended unanimous approval and staff recommended approval "if they determine that the continuation of vested rights is in the best interest of the community," Chelsea said. No members of the public spoke during the public hearing.

The motion to extend vesting passed on a 6-1 vote: Alderman Barnhill yes; Alderman Blanton yes; Alderman Caesar yes; Alderman Peterson yes; Alderman Burger yes; Alderman Brown no; Alderman Baggett yes. With the extension the existing entitlements under the vested development plan remain in effect through March 12, 2027.