Commission backs amendment to Triangle Plaza PD to allow teaching kitchen and community garden at 585 Vine Street

The planning commission on Thursday recommended approval of an amendment to the Triangle Plaza planned development (PD) at 585 Vine Street to allow interior renovations for a teaching kitchen and the addition of a community garden and green space.

Staff explained the amendment affects the southern portion of the PD and would reduce impervious lot coverage by reconfiguring parking and adding porous pavers. The application proposes a community garden on the west side of the lot and sidewalk and street‑tree improvements along the street frontage. Staff found the request compatible with the 2023 comprehensive plan and recommended approval.

Applicant representative Buck Bacon of Devanade Engineering said the proposal will convert retail space to a teaching kitchen and classroom for Farm to Neighborhood and the East Athens Wellness Experience, and highlighted grant funding obtained for the project. Supporters at the hearing — including Amy Kassain of Better Communities Collaborative and Rashi Malcolm, founder of Farm to Neighborhood — described programming such as youth cooking, senior fresh produce delivery and wellness education. The grant cited in testimony totals $965,000, supporters said, and will fund the teaching kitchen, garden and related site improvements.

Commissioners moved to approve the PD amendment after public comment in favor; the motion passed unanimously.

Planning staff will include recommended conditions and work with the applicant on final design details during the permitting process.