Gwinnett County's dreams of big-league, economy-driving development near Coolray Field are one step closer to retirement — one that could be finalized, naturally, by a senior living community.
On Wednesday night, the Gwinnett County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a project by Mansions Senior Living, which would involve building a so-called "age in place" complex a stone's throw from the Lawrenceville stadium, near the intersection of Buford Drive and Old Peachtree Road.
The proposal now awaits further discussion and a final vote from the county's Board of Commissioners.
"We've had multiple things come before that we were not excited about," Planning Commission Chairman Chuck Warbington said. "... I'm very happy with what we have here."
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Like much of the property surrounding Coolray Field, the home of the Atlanta Braves' Triple-A affiliate, the 19-acre site discussed Wednesday has been in limbo since at least 2008. That's when developer Brand Morgan announced plans to build a sprawling project — one with hotel rooms, homes, retail space and offices — around the stadium.
Morgan bought 54 of the 73 acres required for the project, and has built hundreds of upscale apartments in recent years, but most the vision hasn't become reality. Morgan also never bought the remaining 19 acres, leaving owner Garland Roberts to try — and try and try — to find another project that would suit the county's vision.
He may have finally hit a home run.
The Mansions project would bring detached homes, townhomes, a four-story independent living facility and a two-story assisted living facility, the idea being that folks 55 and older will have the chance to move from life stage to life stage while staying in the same complex. (Read the full rezoning application here)
No one spoke in opposition of the development at Wednesday's meeting.
"I’m excited about this plan," Warbington said. "I think this is gonna continue to build the development we eventually want to see around the stadium."
"I hope all the residents love baseball," he added.
Credit: Gwinnett County Planning Commission documents
Credit: Gwinnett County Planning Commission documents
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