Smyrna residents lambast PulteGroup townhome proposal

Residential developer PulteGroup Inc. is preparing for a battle after a contentious town hall meeting in Smyrna.

The Cobb County Courier reports that neighbors aren’t happy about a townhome proposal—branded as a John Wieland Development—on Atlanta Road, near historic Brawner Hall.

According to plans, 43 residences would rise on three lots currently occupied by three homes, one of which is being used as a professional office.

The houses, while all roughly a century old (c. 1913 to 1928), have no major historic significance and occupy valuable real estate.

Rezoning from medium-density residential to urban residential would be required to allow construction of the project, which PulteGroup claims would be “the best use for the property.”

Neighbors couldn’t disagree more.

Traffic emerged as a major concern for those present at the standing-room-only meeting. Others questioned the proposed pricing of between $600,000 and $800,000, noting “comparable” properties feature amenities such as skyline views, which won’t be available at the location.

via Cobb County Courier

One disgruntled neighbor even posed the question, “What can we ... do to convince you we don’t want this?” The questions reportedly resulted in “thunderous applause.”

Ultimately, the decision will come down to the planning and zoning board on Aug. 14 and the Smyrna City Council on Sept. 18.

Given the hostile town hall, expect more fireworks, and possibly a compromise, in the coming weeks.

via Cobb County Courier

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• Atlanta Road Townhome developers get an earful during Smyrna town hall [Cobb County Courier]