Council approves rezoning along North Lancaster corridor to allow mixed residential-commercial uses

Athens City Council adopted ordinance 113-25 at its Nov. 17 meeting, approving a rezoning of parcels along North Lancaster Street, 2nd Street, Columbia Avenue and Columbus Road that shifts some parcels from single-family (R-1) and B-2(d) to a mix of R-2, B-1 and B-2 zoning.

Council member Jessica Thomas, who introduced the third reading, said the change follows planning commission review and expressed appreciation for administration work with neighborhood residents. Earlier in the evening resident Rob Dolich said the rezoning "is a needed change to encourage business development in the area, make it a better place for people to...be able to walk to a store or shop." Member Wood added that the change should bring more neighborhood businesses to the corridor.

The ordinance passed by voice vote; President Crowell announced the motion carries and the ordinance is approved. The mayor and staff confirmed that the designation for the old fire station in that area would fall into the B‑2 classification.

What this means: The rezoning is intended to allow more mixed-use and R-2 residential development and to support business growth along the corridor. Property owners and developers will now review site-specific requirements and any permitting needed to undertake construction or reuse under the new zoning.