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Commission approves CORE redevelopment deal for East Doherty Street after heated debate
Summary
The Athens-Clarke County Commission approved a development agreement for 295 East Doherty Street that pledges preservation of the Foundry building, $7.8 million for the affordable housing fund and other public benefits, despite vocal concern about scale, parking and process. Vote: 6–4.
The Athens-Clarke County Commission on Jan. 6 approved a public–private development agreement with CORE Spaces for redevelopment around 295 East Doherty Street, a package commissioners and project supporters said will deliver land conservation, affordable-housing funding and economic investment to the downtown area.
Supporters argued the project saves historic buildings and brings direct community benefits. "This project saves the Foundry building," said a commissioner during debate. Developer representative Andy Savoy told the commission the plan would contribute $7,800,000 to an affordable housing fund, create public spaces and fund off-site sewer upgrades at no cost to ACC. "The public benefits are enormous," Savoy said in public comment, urging a favorable vote.
Opponents and several commissioners warned the project’s scale—public materials and discussion referenced as many as 1,400 student bedrooms—raises concerns about downtown character, parking, displacement and the transparency of the decision-making process. One commissioner who voted no said the land-swap and parking arrangements "profoundly affect access to Leipark" and feared student housing would alter who uses Lay Park in coming years. Questions were also raised about which infrastructure improvements would be funded by the developer versus the county.
Commissioners said the agreement includes commitments to work with minority contractors and to create nonprofit incubator space in the preserved Foundry building. During debate, the commission also discussed timing for sewer and infrastructure work and how funds pledged by the developer would be distributed. The ordinance and motion were adopted by roll call; the clerk recorded a 6–4 vote in favor.
The commission and staff said the project will require subsequent technical reviews, interdepartmental permits and, where applicable, plan-review approvals. Several commissioners asked staff to monitor implementation and to return with follow-up briefings, particularly about the affordable-housing trust fund and infrastructure timelines.
The vote advances the development agreement; the county and developer will continue procedural steps required to implement the project and the accompanying community benefits.
