Planning panel approves Ridgewalk mixed‑use project with soccer stadium despite traffic concerns

The Woodstock Planning Commission voted 4–2 on April 2 to recommend approval of a rezoning, conditional use permit and associated variances for a 12.181‑acre mixed‑use project at Ridgewalk Parkway and Reagan Street that would include approximately 236 multifamily units, about 26,000 square feet of commercial space and a stadium for a local soccer organization.

The project developer, Joe Knight of Freestone Real Estate, told commissioners the central 3‑acre parcel would be donated to the Downtown Development Authority and leased to Georgia Impact Soccer Club. "We like to think of this a little bit, like a mini battery," Knight said, describing a compact stadium with surrounding retail and a year‑round pedestrian plaza.

Why it matters: Staff recommended approval with extensive conditions after the Development Process Committee voted 5–0 to endorse the project. Commissioners and neighbors, however, flagged traffic and pedestrian safety questions along Ridgewalk…