News Summary

The Aiken Planning Commission unanimously recommended that the City Council deny the annexation and zoning for Beazley Development’s proposed 188-unit townhome project, Guilford. Residents expressed concerns about the impact on rural character, property values, and traffic issues. The commission acknowledged these community concerns, with the City Council set to review the recommendation in an upcoming meeting. In contrast, approval was recommended for two affordable housing developments, indicating ongoing housing initiatives in Aiken.

Aiken – The Aiken Planning Commission unanimously voted 5-0 on May 13 to recommend that the Aiken City Council deny the annexation and zoning requests along with the concept plan approval for Beazley Development Company’s proposed 188-unit townhome project, named Guilford. The project is slated to be located near the intersection of Wire Road and Gator Lane.

Residents raised significant concerns during the public hearing about the project impacting the rural character of the area, which hosts many equestrian facilities and farms. One resident highlighted fears about potential declines in property values and overall quality of life due to such a dense development. The commission noted these community concerns while considering the recommendations for the City Council to address.

Beazley Development Company sought annexation of two parcels, one owned by them and the other under contract from local residents Rolando and Ana Aparicio. The land is currently zoned for Rural Development by Aiken County, while Beazley requested a switch to Planned Residential zoning to accommodate their plans. Surrounding properties include Crosland Park to the north, Aiken Intermediate and North Aiken Elementary schools to the west, and single-family homes to the east.

Traffic issues were also a focal point during the discussions. The concept plan proposed a single access point on Wire Road along with a crash gate off Gator Lane. However, some commissioners argued that the development should feature at least two access points to manage potential increases in traffic. Local residents echoed similar concerns, stating they were worried about heightened traffic on Wire Road as a result of the new townhomes. In response, Beazley’s Vice President mentioned that a traffic study was ongoing, indicating possible alterations to Wire Road if needed.

Another point of contention was related to the townhome project’s infrastructure plans. The development aims to provide sewer services via a lift station that is currently utilized by nearby schools. Some residents expressed apprehension that enhanced usage of the lift station could further diminish property values, particularly due to increased noise levels.

The Aiken City Council is expected to review the Planning Commission’s recommendation during their meeting scheduled for June 9. This upcoming meeting will be pivotal in determining the future of the proposed townhome project.

In contrast to the Beazley development proposal, the Aiken Planning Commission also recommended approval of two new affordable housing developments during the same meeting. These projects include plans for affordable apartments to be constructed at Rutland and Dupont Drives, and Sundy Avenue and Jake Place. The proposed Fox Ridge Trace apartment complex aims to deliver nine buildings with diverse apartment layouts and a range of community amenities.

Additionally, the Ulysses Development Group plans to develop another affordable housing project consisting of six buildings with a mixture of apartment styles, focused on providing options for low-income residents. Both new housing initiatives will be reviewed by the Aiken City Council in meetings scheduled for June 9 and June 23.

Meanwhile, Aiken Towne Park, the site formerly occupied by the Aiken Mall, is making progress with plans that include retail spaces and apartments. The projected completion date for some of these units is set for the end of 2025.

Aiken Planning Commission Denies Guilford Townhome Project

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Author: hereaiken