The Dunwoody City Council voted unanimously, 7-0, to deny the rezoning application for an affordable housing project at Ashford Dunwoody Road and Ashford Center Parkway. The proposal was brought to the council by Dominium, a Minnesota-based developer.
Highlights
- The affordable housing project was proposed at 4891 Ashford Dunwoody Road.
- Attorney Julie Somers and company vice president Shaun Rhinehardt represented Dominium at the council meeting.
- Attendees at the September 8 meeting raised objections, citing the location, height, and height of the project for the elderly.
Dunwoody Rejects Dominium Life South Project
The Dunwoody City Council rejected the rezoning proposal for the independent senior housing development. Dominium had earlier requested the rezoning of a three-acre site from O-I (Office Industrial) to PD (Planned Development). This was to facilitate its redevelopment into an age and income-restricted housing complex.
If approved, the Dominium Life South Project could have brought 215 rental units at 4891 Ashford Dunwoody Road. The plan also included a 240-space underground parking garage and eight surface parking spots for visitors. However, facing opposition from the public, Dominium reduced the height and density at the last minute.
The Minnesota developer submitted its revised site plan in the city council presentation on September 8. Vice President Shaun Rhinehardt and attorney Julie Somers represented Dominium’s side.
In response to feedback, Dominium lowered the building’s height to 67 feet along Ashford Parkway and 56 feet along Ashford Dunwoody Road. The site’s density was reduced to 165 units from the earlier 215 units. The maximum impervious cover was reduced as well from 85% to 70%.
Concerns Raised During the Dunwoody City Council Meeting
Despite the revisions, Dunwoody residents raised objections during the public comment period. Some residents worried the project’s location wasn’t near key amenities like hospitals, malls, and MARTA stations. They also noted that the Ashford Center area already has a high concentration of apartments.
While some residents supported the affordable housing aspect, they criticized the vote’s timing, noting the comprehensive plan had not yet been finalized. Another concern focused on the building’s height, particularly the rear, which offered limited access for safety and emergency vehicles. Traffic congestion at the Dunwoody location was a major concern that was raised as well.
The council’s decision highlights the impact of community feedback on local development projects and the ongoing need for careful planning in Dunwoody.
