City plans major zoning shift to residential development

In a recent government meeting, the City of Conyers discussed a significant proposal to amend the comprehensive land use plan and zoning map for five parcels located at Bridgestone Business Parkway. The request, presented by applicant Steve Goodsell and his agent Mark Walton, seeks to transition the zoning from General Commercial to Residential Single Family 14, allowing for the development of a 24-lot single-family residential subdivision.

The area in question, originally designated for commercial use as part of the Bridgestone Business Parkway established in 2006, has seen minimal development, with only one of the seven parcels being utilized for a daycare. The proposed change aims to align the zoning with the surrounding residential areas, which are predominantly zoned R1.

The staff report highlighted that the new residential development would not only be compatible with existing zoning but would also enhance the local community by providing additional housing options. The minimum lot size proposed is 14,000 square feet, with homes required to have a minimum heated floor area of 1,800 square feet for single-story and 2,210 square feet for two-story structures.

Concerns regarding school capacity were addressed, noting that students from the new development would attend CJ Hicks Elementary, Conyers Middle, and Rockdale County High School. Current enrollment figures indicate that while some schools are nearing capacity, there is still room to accommodate additional students.

The planning commission expressed support for the proposal, which will be forwarded to the city council for consideration at their upcoming meeting on July 17th. If approved, the next step for the applicant would involve submitting a preliminary plat for further review. The staff recommended approval of the request with certain conditions, reflecting feedback from the planning commission, city council, and local residents.