The Fayette County Commission Dec. 14 gave approval for the rezoning of 41.785 acres from A-R to R-50 along the west side of Ga. Highway 279 between Morning Springs Walk and Imperial Way.

The tract is proposed for the development of 30 lots anticipated to sell for $100,000 with homes in the $500,000 range. Area residents opposed to the change cited mounting traffic congestion and septic tank concerns.

Representing the estate of Fannie L. Jackson, Randy Boyd said the 1.22-acre per unit development is consistent with the county’s land use plan. Boyd said the owners would dedicate any needed right-of-way to Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT) and would maintain a 10-foot, no-access buffer along Hwy. 279. Boyd said the development would include a deceleration lane into the subdivision.

Citing concerns about the large amount of traffic along Hwy. 279, Boyd said that he anticipated a DOT-required turn lane into the development. After checking with the property owners during the meeting, Boyd later said the proposed development would include a turn lane even if DOT did not require it.

Doris Anthony was one of three area residents expressing concern over the proposal. She said traffic is often bumper-to-bumper between 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., saying another residential development would only add to the traffic woes.

She also expressed concerns over increased vehicle emissions and a potential negative impact on property values.

Also opposed to the rezoning, Dan Lowry talked about traffic congestion and concerns over area septic systems that would be further impacted with additional development.

Boyd said the expected pricing of homes to be built was a good indication that surrounding property values would not be negatively affected. Responding to concerns over a turn lane, Boyd said the installation of a turn lane would be no surprise given DOT requirements.

“It’s safe to assume that we’ll have to do the turn lane,” Boyd said.

Soil tests to determine compatibility with septic systems would come at a later date, Boyd said. Homes could not be built if the tests show that the soil does not support a septic system, he said.

The need to have a turning lane installed is clearly a safety issue, Chairman Greg Dunn said earlier in the meeting. He asked Boyd to contact the property owners about the prospect of obtaining a commitment to add a turn lane with or without DOT’s requirement.

login to post comments