Stonecrest approves stream‑buffer variance for Everett Park kayak launch and permeable parking

The Zoning Board of Appeals on Dec. 16 approved a variance allowing the City of Stonecrest to encroach into the 75‑foot stream buffer at Everett Park (5106 Klondike Road) to install a floating kayak launch and a small permeable‑paver parking area.

Staff said the project would encroach into the buffer to provide public access to the South River and that staff recommended approval with conditions. Project engineer Alif Tkar (CERM) described a plan that includes a floating kayak launch, permeable pavers for roughly 8,730–9,085 square feet of parking and driveway, bioswales and stormwater controls designed to meet the Georgia Stormwater Management Manual. Tkar said wetland delineation, geotechnical exploration and permitting were completed, and he reported a no‑objection certificate from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and a state EPD permit covering portions of the work.

In response to board questions, the applicant said the plan retains a 25‑foot riparian strip closest to the river (the encroachment is between the 25‑ and 75‑foot buffer lines) and that the construction will be staged and cordoned to limit impacts on the narrow adjacent road and bridge. The plan shows 11 parking spaces including accessible stalls.

After questions about staging and traffic impacts during construction, the board voted to support staff’s recommendation and approved V25‑015 with the stated conditions; the motion passed by voice vote and no roll‑call tally is recorded in the transcript.