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Planning Commission backs large multi-sport and aquatics complex with conditions, urges traffic study
Summary
The commission unanimously recommended approval of a rezoning for a proposed multi-sport and fitness complex (including a natatorium and training facilities) on Columbia Road, while staff and neighbors urged traffic-study, GDOT coordination, and mitigation for noise, light and off-site parking for tournaments.
The Columbia County Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of a rezoning request to allow a proposed multi-sport and fitness complex on approximately 21.8 acres off Columbia Road near Patriot’s Park.
Staff described the concept—an athletic complex with indoor and outdoor training spaces, an auditorium/natatorium and commercial buildings—and said the project could meet community needs but requires careful site planning. Staff flagged issues that must be resolved at the site-plan stage, including fire-department access and layout changes, GDOT coordination for access on a state highway, a traffic study to identify required road improvements, and potential off-site parking agreements for tournament events. Staff recommended approval with conditions to address those items.
Project engineer Bill Quarter and applicant John Bagesco highlighted community benefits: a natatorium to host swim meets, fitness and recreation programming, and partnerships with local schools and USA Swimming. Supporters from regional swim leagues and community organizations described demand for local aquatic facilities and youth programming.
Opponents and nearby residents cited concerns about traffic, noise, light pollution, and the potential for commercial encroachment (including a hotel or retail shown as an option on the concept plan). Staff and the applicant discussed mitigation measures including increased buffers, photometric plans to limit light spillover and moving some outdoor activity spaces interior to the site, and the applicant said parking and lighting could be managed and that site plan adjustments were anticipated.
After deliberation, the commission voted to recommend approval with conditions; the recommendation will be forwarded to the County Board for final action.
Quotes
“We do plan to have a photometric plan for a site like this,” the project engineer said regarding light spill and neighbor impacts.
“Cornerstone of this project is the natatorium…we’ll improve the fitness and health of this community,” said a representative of the Aiken-Augusta Swim League in support.
Ending
The Planning Commission’s recommendation includes conditions requiring traffic and site-plan coordination; the Board of Commissioners will consider the rezoning at the county level in its next docket.
