Smyrna planning panel recommends annexation, R2A rezoning for 5280 Wheatley's Pond Road

The Smyrna Planning and Zoning Commission voted to recommend that the Town Council annex two parcels at 5280 Wheatley’s Pond Road and rezone them to R2A, moving a proposal for roughly 11–12 new dwelling units forward.

Staff told the commission the two parcels total approximately 1.11 acres, meet state contiguity standards and are adjacent to the Bay Health Emergency Center. The applicants were not present; staff reviewed public-notice steps and explained that under the town’s future land-use map the parcels qualify for annexation and could be developed under several residential districts. The applicant has requested R2A, which allows neighborhood residential uses including two-family dwellings and, with Board of Adjustment approval, small multiunit buildings.

Staff said the applicant proposes to subdivide the site into narrow lots and construct front‑and‑rear two‑family dwellings (one unit behind another) similar to other recent infill projects in town. The commission heard that utilities would be extended at the developer’s expense — sanitary sewer would be run up Culver Street and properties would be served from the rear — and that sidewalks would be required where new houses are built.

Commissioners asked about lot widths, parking and access; staff noted that two‑family dwellings are permitted in R2A and that a triplex or quadplex on the corner would require a special exception from the Board of Adjustment. After discussion a commissioner made a motion to recommend annexation and rezoning to R2A. The motion was seconded and the commission carried the recommendation by voice vote.

The recommendation will be transmitted to the Smyrna Town Council for final action.