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date: 
title: City Council Meeting April 13, 2026 - Draft
source: 2026-04/City Council Meeting April 13, 2026 - Draft.pdf
pages: 1
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STOCKBRIDGE Council Meeting
CITY COUNCIL Agenda
Mayor Jayden L. Williams
April 13, 2026 6:00 PM
At-Large

Mayor Pro Tem Elton Alexander

Council District 5

Councilmember LaKeisha Gantt

Council District 1

Councilmember Antwan Cloud

Council District 2

Councilmember Kyle D. Berry, Sr.

Council District 3

Councilmember Yolanda Barber
Council District 4

CITY MANAGER STOCKBRIDGE CITY HALL
Shawn Edmondson
4640 NORTH HENRY BLVD.
INTERIM CITY CLERK
STOCKBRIDGE, GA 30281
Cassandra Lester

CITY TREASURER Website: www.stockbridgega.org
Frank Milazi Phone: 770-389-7900
CITY ATTORNEY
Fax: 770-389-7912
Quinton G. Washington
Translation and Interpretation Services are available with (7)
Megan McCulloch
days prior notice. Please contact the City’s HR Manager at
770-389-7908 for assistance.
AGENDA
COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE
MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2026 6:00 PM

CALL TO ORDER

INVOCATION

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES
1 Approval of the Work Session Meeting Minutes March 31, 2026

PUBLIC COMMENTS - All persons wishing to speak for public comment must
sign in with the City Clerk prior to the beginning of the meeting. You must sign
your name, address, and phone number. You will be able to address the Mayor
and Council for three (3) minutes. Speakers must respect all members of the
elected body, officials, and staff. Defamation, unruliness and/or swearing will not
be tolerated while meetings are in session.

CEREMONIAL

PRESENTATION
2 PRESENTATION ON POTENTIAL SMALL AREA STUDIES TO BE
UNDERTAKEN. (Citywide)
The Community Development Department has examined the possibility of
undertaking one or more small area studies within the City. Ten (10) potential
small areas have been identified and ranked for consideration, based on
several factors. The studies would be coordinated with other City planning
endeavors. - Presented by: Ryan Anderson

PUBLIC HEARING
3 VARIANCE CASE #VR-2026-01. (Council District 2)
Consideration of a variance application for the request of two variances, as are
listed below, for Parcel #S20-03003000 on Wilson Avenue to allow for the
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construction of a new single-family detached dwelling. Property Owners: Laura
Bernal Gopar and Luis A. Gopar-Carmona. Applicant: Jerry Robinson. The
property is located in Land Lot 36 of District 12, and it contains 0.613 +/- acres.

~ Variance Request #1: Reduce the front yard setback from the required 50
feet to 25 feet within the SR (Suburban Residential) zoning district.

~ Variance Request #2: Reduce the rear yard setback from the required 40
feet to 20 feet within the SR (Suburban Residential) zoning district. - Presented
by: Ryan Anderson

NEW BUSINESS
4 QUITCLAIM DISPOSAL OF REMNANT TRACT AT 2125 JODECO
ROAD. (Council District 5)
Council consideration of the quitclaim disposal of a portion of the remnant tract
at 2125 Jodeco Road, which is owned by the City, to allow the tract to be used
by Tidal Wave Auto Spa in the development of its property. O.C.G.A. § 36-37-
6(g) allows governments to convey a small strip of land to an abutting property
owner without an auction or bidding process. Section 3.30.170(C) of Municode
requires City Council to first declare the strip to be “unserviceable.” - Presented
by: Ryan Anderson
5 Council consideration of a purchase agreement for SPD K9 Moos with his
current handler, SPD LT. Zimmerman - Presented by: Richard Godfrey
6 (First Reading) TEXT AMENDMENT CASE #TX-2026-02. (Citywide)
Consideration of a text amendment to the Stockbridge Municode to establish a
process for requesting, initiating, approving, and implementing the renaming of
streets and public facilities within the Stockbridge City Limits. - Presented by:
Ryan Anderson
7 (First Reading) SOUTH BERRY STREET RENAMING. (Council District 2)
Council consideration of a resolution to rename South Berry Street to
"Alphonso Thomas Street" to honor the longtime public servant's decades of
service to the Stockbridge community. This action supports the City's continued
efforts to recognize leaders who have made significant historical and civic
contributions to the City. - Presented by: Ryan Anderson

MAYOR'S COMMENTS (Jayden L. Williams)

EXECUTIVE SESSION (Exemptions to the Georgia Open Meetings Acts)

ANNOUNCEMENTS OF UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS
Council meetings will be held in the City Council Chamber, while some Board
and Committee meetings will take place via Zoom. Meeting dates and times
may change, so please check the city's website at www.stockbridgega.org or
contact City Hall at 770-389-7900 for updates. The City of Stockbridge
complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and does not

April 13, 2026 6:00 PM 4640 N. Henry Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
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discriminate based on disability. Individuals requiring auxiliary services for
meeting participation should contact City Hall at 770-389-7900 in advance.

ADJOURNMENT

April 13, 2026 6:00 PM 4640 N. Henry Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
SUMMARY MINUTES
TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2026 6:00 P.M.
Mayor & City Council
Mayor Jayden L. Willams At-Large
Mayor Pro Tem Elton Alexander – Council District 5
Councilmember LaKeisha Gantt – Council District 1
Councilmember Antwan Cloud – Council District 2
Councilmember Kyle D. Berry, Sr. – Council District 3
Councilmember Yolanda Barber – Council District 4

Administration
Shawn Edmondson – City Manager
Frank Milazi – City Treasurer
Cassandra Lester – Interim City Clerk
Quinton Washington – City Attorney
Megan McCullough – Associate Attorney

Mission: To provide visionary leadership and superior municipal services that enhance the
quality of life for citizens while creating a welcoming business atmosphere focused on
sustainability and expansion of tourism and cultural events.

Mayor Williams called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m.

Councilmember Berry led the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
All members were present; Councilmember Gantt arrived at 6:39pm.

Mayor Williams requested adoption of the agenda with an amendment to add item
number 10 under New Business for the 2025 audit agreement from the city's auditor, as
confirmed by City Treasurer Frank Milazi.

Motion: Councilmember Berry motioned to amend and adopt the agenda to add
item number 10 for the 2025 audit agreement; seconded by Councilmember
Yolanda Barber. The Motion passed 4-0.

Approval of the City Council Special Called Meeting Minutes February 12, 2026
Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve the February 12, 2026
minutes; seconded by Councilmember Cloud. The Motion passed 4-0.

Approval of the City Council Meeting Minutes March 09, 2026
Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve the March 09, 2026
minutes; seconded by Councilmember Cloud. The Motion passed 4-0.

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Interim Clerk Lester noted six public comments were submitted.

Michelle Moody (100 Mimosa Drive) raised safety concerns about the intersection of
Hillcrest Road and Bowen Drive, citing a dangerous creek with a steep drop-off and
requesting consideration of a guardrail or barrier. She provided photographs and was
directed to follow up with City Manager Mr. Edmondson.

Charles Dubs (108 South Lee Street) spoke in opposition to the Lee Street name
change, presenting documentation showing former Mayor Lee lived at 108 South Lee
Street for years. He detailed Lee's contributions to Stockbridge, including helping
establish Stockbridge High School, getting streets paved from McDonough to Atlanta,
and bringing electricity to the city. Council voted 3-0-2 to allow him to complete his
comments beyond the three-minute limit.

Willie Carter (123 Wilson Ave) opposed the street name change, noting the city already
has Martin Luther King Heritage Trail and expressing concern that changing the name
would not benefit the underprivileged community area.

Anthony Ford (708 Lilly Glenn Lane) spoke in favor of the street name change,
explaining it would create MLK-named streets on both sides of downtown as it
develops. He noted his personal connection to Dr. King through their shared fraternity
membership and suggested adding "Doctor" to the proposed name. Ford believed this
would make Stockbridge unique in having father and son honored on both sides of
downtown.

Judy Neal (174 Eagles Club Drive) opposed the name change, citing concerns about
impacts on businesses like Pinehurst catering facility, potential delays in Google Maps
updates, and costs. She referenced the estimated $95,000-$130,000 cost of statues in
today's money and argued the city should focus on supporting Henry County School
System initiatives instead of pursuing divisive street renaming.

Charles Marshall (140 Somerset Hills) supported the street name change, noting that
955 streets have been named or renamed after MLK across 41 states and 1,000 other
places worldwide. He emphasized the King family's historical connection to Stockbridge
and the opportunity to honor Dr. King's legacy alongside the existing MLK Senior
Heritage Trail.

PRESENTATION
Henry County Schools City of Stockbridge Update Presentation
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Cemond Robinzine presented updates on behalf of Henry
County Schools, joined by board members and principals from Stockbridge cluster
schools. The presentation highlighted that Henry County Schools is the eighth largest
district in Georgia with approximately 42,000 students and over 6,000 employees,
making it the largest employer in Henry County.

Key highlights included the community-inspired strategic plan with five strategic actions
focusing on learning opportunities, educator retention, community connections, health
and wellness, and operational culture. The district has achieved notable successes
including Stockbridge Elementary School exiting the federal Target Support

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Improvement designation, significant safety infrastructure investments totaling over $30
million, and expansion of arts and STEM programs.

The presentation covered upcoming E-SPLOST VII initiatives and the development of a
new five-year strategic plan.

Mayor Williams opened the floor for discussion:
Mayor Pro Tem Alexander asked about a previous study on school capacity that
indicated pockets of high intensity but overall available seats in the school system
despite community growth; Questioned how the recent school enrollment trends align
with growth and capacity planning.

Deputy Superintendent Summer Cox confirmed the district conducts periodic enrollment
studies with external partners. She noted a slight overall reduction in school enrollment
over recent years, consistent with state and national trends and projected some growth
in enrollment at specific schools over the next 5-10 years, with plans for additions at
Dutchtown Elementary and Tussahaw Elementary. Mentioned that community
development does not always translate to increased school enrollment.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander asked about growth and capacity specifically for Flippin
Elementary and Union Grove Elementary schools, noting that many students in his
district attend these schools while having McDonough addresses.

Mayor Pro Tem Alexander then requested data on these schools’ enrollments and
expressed interest in pursuing safe routes to school funding for sidewalk connections in
new neighborhoods near Hickory Flat Elementary and Flippin Elementary.

Deputy Superintendent Summer Cox acknowledged the requests and indicated
willingness to follow up on possible sidewalk projects and safe routes to school funding.
Noting that the E-SPLOST VII plan is under review and that suggestions for sidewalk
improvements may be considered for future projects.

Councilmember Gantt inquired about population planning and expressed appreciation
for reduced use of trailers and new school additions.

CONSENT AGENDA
Confirmation of the Chief of Police Scott Hamilton with an official start date of
April 13, 2026.

Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to confirm Scott Hamilton as the new
Chief of Police with an official start date of April 13, 2026; seconded by
Councilmember Cloud. The Motion passed 5-0.

Chief Hamilton addressed the governing body, thanking them for their confidence and
promising to elevate the already respected Stockbridge Police Department to the next
level with professionalism, transparency, and accountability. He introduced his family
and committed to serving his new Stockbridge family.

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Mayor Pro Tem Alexander noted that Chief Hamilton is the first African American police
chief appointed in both the city of Austell and the city of Stockbridge.

OLD BUSINESS
Street Name Changes for North Lee Street and South Lee Street
Community Development Director Ryan Anderson reported that staff conducted
additional research through over 60 pages of documents but could not find conclusive
evidence of who Lee Street was named after.

Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to rename North Lee Street and South
Lee Street to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way; seconded by Councilmember Gantt.

Discussion: Councilmember Barber stated her opposition to the name change. She
emphasized that North Lee and South Lee streets are in her district, and the initiative
did not originate from her, but affects the residents and stakeholders in the district she is
duly elected to represent. She expressed concern about impacts on homeowners and
business owners who have lived on Lee Street for decades and noted their public
comments opposing the change. Barber requested that council reconsider the initiative,
stating it would not benefit her district.

Councilmember Berry questioned Mr. Anderson about the research findings. Anderson
confirmed they found evidence of former Mayor Lee living on Lee Street but could not
locate definitive documentation stating the street was named after him. Based on typical
street naming conventions involving largest property owners, first settlers, landmarks, or
famous people, Anderson suggested it could “likely” be concluded the street was named
after the Lee family.

Councilmember Barber presented and referenced an administrator's deed of sale
stamped by Henry County that showed William Jackson Lee's connection to the
property, citing it supported the street being named after former Mayor Lee.

Mayor Williams called for the vote: The Motion passed 3-1-1
(Councilmember Barber opposed, Councilmember Berry Abstained).

NEW BUSINESS
Council consideration to approve the increase in the City's paid Basic Life
Insurance benefit from $10,000 to $50,000, effective April 1, 2026.
Human Resources Director Dwayne Pollock presented the proposal using the EPAS
model (enhance, provide, align, strengthen) to improve employee benefits. He noted
that the current life insurance policy benefit amount of $10,000 is insufficient and is not
enough to cover typical funeral expenses in today’s economy. The increase would raise
monthly costs from $2.65 to $11.20 per employee, with a total annual cost increase of
$19,000.

Mr. Pollock emphasized that the adjustment would demonstrate the City’s commitment
to employee well-being, provide stronger financial protection, improve competitiveness
with peer municipalities, and support talent recruitment and retention.

Councilmember Barber inquired about a specific budget line item, to which Mr. Pollack
confirmed that the line item is described as "employee group life insurance."
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Councilmember Barber then asked for the approved budgeted amount for this line item.
Mr. Pollack responded, “when we receive the annual renewals for the carrier for
insurance, the annual amount for this particular coverage is $5,846.00.”

Motion: Councilmember Gantt motioned to authorize the increase of the city's basic
life and AD&D benefit from $10,000 to $50,000 effective April 1, 2026; seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The Motion passed 5-0.

Council consideration to approve Dianna Hunt & Associates, Inc. to provide
acquisition services for approximately 43 parcels in connection with the Tye
Street Multi-Use Path Project right-of-way acquisitions - First phase of acquisition
services estimated to forty thousand dollars. Funding source is from TSPLOST.
Public Works Director Decius Aaron explained this is a TSPLOST project where plans
have been prepared and easements drawn up. The request is to use Diana Hunt and
Associates for the first phase of three phases of easement preparation.

Motion: Councilmember Berry motioned to approve; seconded by
Councilmember Cloud.

Discussion: Councilmember Barber inquired about how many phases to the project has,
to which Mr. Aaron confirmed there are three total phases to the project.

Mayor Williams called for the vote: The Motion passed 5-0.

Council consideration to approve piggybacking of Macon-Bibb County RFP No.
24-022-LH Traffic Signal Repairs and Maintenance Services, issued April 5, 2024,
with Riverside Traffic Solutions, LLC.
Mr. Aaron explained that as part of the renewed service delivery strategy and
annexation, the city assumed responsibility for multiple traffic signals. Riverside Traffic
Solutions previously performed work for Henry County and is familiar with the signals.
The company has been responsive to traffic signal issues, and staff recommends
continuing their services.

Councilmember Barber asked if this would be the first time piggybacking off this specific
contract to which Mr. Aaron clarified for “traffic signal maintenance. Yes, ma'am”

Motion: Councilmember Gantt motioned to approve; seconded by
Councilmember Cloud. The Motion passed 5-0.

Council consideration to approve the purchase of two vehicles for departmental
use at a cost not to exceed $94,910. The funding for this purchase is available in
the fiscal year 2026 budget.
Community Development Director Ryan Anderson explained the request is for two
vehicles - one for the permitting and inspections division and one for the new business
compliance officer position.
He noted that in 2023, the city promised five vehicles when permitting and inspection
was brought in-house, but this equipment had not been received until now and is
presenting the request for two trucks.

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Councilmember Barber asked if the purchase was included in the community
development budget, to which Mr. Anderson confirmed, “Yes.“

Motion: Councilmember Gantt motioned to approve; seconded by
Councilmember Berry. The Motion passed 5-0.

2025 Fiscal Audit Agreement
City Treasurer Frank Milazi explained that this annual engagement agreement with the
audit firm Mauldin and Jenkins is part of their five-year contract from 2023-2028. The
agreement stipulates what the auditors will do when they come for the audit on May 4th
2026 and specifies documentation requirements and city responsibilities.

Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve; seconded by
Councilmember Berry. The Motion passed 5-0

MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Williams deferred his comments for executive session.

EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion to adjourn to executive session for real estate, personnel, litigation, and
cybersecurity was made by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander, seconded by Councilmember
Cloud. The Motion passed 5-0.

Motion to adjourn from executive session made by Councilmember Berry; seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The Motion passed 3-0. Councilmembers Gantt and Cloud
were not present on the dais.

From executive session, associate attorney Megan McCullough presented to governing
body a Norfolk Southern lease agreement for real property located at milepost 171.308,
with the goal of converting the area into a parking lot for a vote.

Motion: Councilmember Cloud motioned to approve the lease agreement;
seconded by Councilmember Barber. The Motion passed 5-0.

Motion to adjourn the meeting made by Councilmember Gantt; seconded by
Councilmember Berry. The motion passed 5-0.

The meeting adjourned at 8:56pm

Respectfully submitted by:

Cassandra Lester, Interim City Clerk Jayden L. Williams, Mayor

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APRIL 13, 2026

Ryan Anderson

Community Development

PRESENTATION ON POTENTIAL SMALL AREA STUDIES TO BE UNDERTAKEN. The Community Development
Department has examined the possibility of undertaking one or more small area studies within the City. Ten (10)
potential small areas have been identified and ranked for consideration, based on several factors. The studies would be
coordinated with other City planning endeavors.

Cities conduct small area studies to first identify and understand the existing conditions of each small area, then to
prepare plans or make recommendations for the improvement and well-being of those areas. The Staff identified the
reasons why a particular small area might need to be studied.

$0.00
PRESENTATION ON POTENTIAL SMALL AREA STUDIES TO BE UNDERTAKEN

APPROVAL
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 1

A Strategic Blueprint for City
Growth: Potential Small Area
Studies
TO: Stockbridge Mayor and City Council
FROM: Brennen Reilly, GIS Analyst/Planner II,
Planning and Zoning Division
CC: Ryan Anderson, Community
Development Director
DATE: April 13, 2026
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 2

Table of Contents
1. Purpose of the Staff Report ...................................................................................... 4

2. Overview of the Small Area Planning Approach ........................................................ 4

2.1 Definition of Small Study Area Analysis ............................................................... 4

2.2 Rationale for Corridor-Based and Neighborhood-Based Plans ............................. 4

3. Methodology ............................................................................................................ 4

4. Small Area Plans ...................................................................................................... 5

4.1 Area A – Rock Quarry Road, Northern Portion ..................................................... 5

4.2 Area B – Rock Quarry Road, Southern Portion .................................................. 11

4.3 Area C – Highway 138 West.............................................................................. 15

4.4 Area D – Davidson Parkway .............................................................................. 20

4.5 Area E – North Henry Boulevard / Highway 42 (Northern Segment) ................... 24

4.6 Area F – East Atlanta Road, Southern Section ................................................... 28

4.7 Area G – North Henry Boulevard, Central Section ............................................. 32

4.8 Area H – North Stockbridge ............................................................................... 37

4.9 Area I – Atlanta Highway / Highway 42 .............................................................. 41

4.10 Area J – Eastern Section of North Henry Boulevard ......................................... 44

5. Appendices ............................................................................................................ 50

5.1 Area A: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 50

5.2 Area B: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 50

5.3 Area C: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 51

5.4 Area D: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 51

5.5 Area E: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 52

5.6 Area F: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 52
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 3

5.7 Area G: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 53

5.8 Area H: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 53

5.9 Area I: Maps and Charts ................................................................................... 54

5.10 Area J: Maps and Charts ................................................................................. 54

5.11 All Areas: Demographic Maps .......................................................................... 55
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 4

1. Purpose of the Staff Report
This staff report presents a consolidated Small Area Plans document for ten targeted
study areas (A–J) across the City of Stockbridge. It translates the broad goals and
policies of the City’s Comprehensive Plan into specific, location-based strategies that
address unique local conditions while advancing citywide priorities for housing diversity,
economic vitality, multimodal mobility, and neighborhood stability. By synthesizing
detailed zoning analysis, existing conditions inventories, demographic data, and
thematic mapping, the report equips the Mayor and City Council with clear, actionable
recommendations, phased implementation steps, potential partners, and funding
sources to guide near-term decisions and long-term growth in a coordinated, equitable
manner.

2. Overview of the Small Area Planning Approach
2.1 Definition of Small Study Area Analysis
Small study area analysis is a planning method that isolates defined geographic
segments—typically corridors or neighborhoods—for detailed examination of land use
patterns, zoning, built form, infrastructure, demographics, and environmental features.
Each area is evaluated independently yet remains aligned with the Comprehensive
Plan, enabling targeted recommendations that respond to the unique character and
challenges of that specific location rather than applying uniform citywide solutions.

2.2 Rationale for Corridor-Based and Neighborhood-Based Plans
Corridor-based and neighborhood-based plans are particularly effective in Stockbridge
because many of the study areas follow major arterials or established residential
clusters where development pressures, compatibility issues, and infrastructure needs
are most concentrated. This scale allows the City to address linear systems (such as
traffic flow, commercial frontage, and transit potential) alongside cohesive residential
fabrics, ensuring that recommendations for housing strategies, economic revitalization,
land-use coordination, or transportation improvements are both geographically precise
and mutually reinforcing across adjacent areas.

3. Methodology
The ten small area plans were developed through a systematic review of current zoning
maps, parcel data, existing land-use inventories, and census-tract-level demographic
indicators. Insights from thematic maps illustrating poverty rates, cost-burdened
households, dependent-age populations, median age, birth rates, predominant housing
occupancy, and racial/ethnic composition were integrated to reveal spatial patterns and
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 5

disparities. All findings were cross-referenced with the City’s Comprehensive Plan
chapters on Housing, Future Land Use, Economic Development, and Transportation to
ensure full policy alignment. Recommendations were organized into short-term (0–2
years), mid-term (3–5 years), and long-term (5+ years) actions, with explicit
identification of partners and funding sources to support immediate implementation.

4. Small Area Plans
4.1 Area A – Rock Quarry Road, Northern Portion
4.1.1. Executive Summary The northern portion of Rock Quarry Road serves as
Stockbridge’s primary heavy industrial corridor, dominated by Heavy Industrial (HI)
zoning across 72.95% of the area. Characterized by large-scale industrial uses
including mining, warehouses, and fleet maintenance alongside limited multi-family
residential pockets, the study area functions as a key employment node. Primary issues
include underutilized parcels, aging infrastructure, conflicts at the industrial-residential
interface, and sparse multimodal connectivity. The primary planning focus is Economic
Development. Leveraging the ongoing GDOT Rock Quarry Road widening project, this
plan envisions the corridor evolving into a modern, well-buffered heavy industrial district
with upgraded flex-space facilities, improved site readiness, and enhanced compatibility
with adjacent neighborhoods, delivering high-quality jobs while respecting residential
character.
4.1.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan This study area requires focused planning
attention because it contains the City’s largest contiguous concentration of Heavy
Industrial zoning and uses, yet many parcels remain underutilized with aging
infrastructure that limits job growth and expansion. Challenges include poor buffering
and compatibility issues where industrial uses abut residential areas, limited sidewalk
and trail connectivity, and a lack of unified identity or marketing for the industrial cluster.
Opportunities exist to capitalize on the GDOT road widening project to improve access,
upgrade utilities, and attract advanced manufacturing and logistics firms. The plan
directly supports the Comprehensive Plan’s Economic Development and Future Land
Use goals by promoting business retention, site readiness, and rational industrial
development along this important corridor while protecting quality of life in nearby
neighborhoods.
4.1.3. Study Area Description

4.1.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area A encompasses 66 parcels totaling 1,084 acres
along the northern portion of Rock Quarry Road. As shown in Appendix 5.1, Map 1, the
study area is positioned as a significant industrial node within the City of Stockbridge,
with residential neighborhoods located along its eastern and southern edges.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 6

4.1.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area A is characterized by a mix of
auto-related uses, multifamily residential units, and prevalent industrial activities,
including mining operations, warehouses, and fleet maintenance facilities. Appendix 5.1,
Figure 1 reveals that zoning is overwhelmingly industrial, with Heavy Industrial (HI)
districts covering 72.95% of the land area, followed by Light Industrial (LI) at 17.96%.
Smaller portions include Multi-Family Residential (MFR) at 8.14%, with minimal
Suburban Residential (SR), C2, and C3 zoning.

According to the demographic maps of Appendix 5.11, the surrounding census tracts
show a notable presence of dependent age groups (under 18 and 65+), ranging from
30.5% to 40.2%, indicating a population with significant child and senior populations that
may rely on local employment opportunities or require careful management of industrial-
residential transitions. Housing occupancy varies, with renter-occupied units
predominant in some tracts (up to 63.78%) and owner-occupied units stronger in others
(up to 76.72%). Cost-burdened households range widely from 22.04% to 54.52%,
suggesting varying levels of housing affordability pressure near the industrial corridor.
Birth rates among women aged 15-50 in the past 12 months are relatively low in one
tract (1.4%) but higher in another (13.0%), pointing to differing family formation trends.
Median ages span from 28.4 to 38.9 years, reflecting a generally younger working-age
population in some areas. Poverty rates remain modest, between 3.4% and 9.3%,
which is consistent with an employment-focused industrial district that may provide job
opportunities even as surrounding residential areas experience mixed economic
conditions.

The built environment reflects large-scale industrial parcels with supporting access
roads, while environmental features include typical suburban topography with no major
floodplains prominently noted in available data. Overall, the data portray an area with
strong industrial capacity but transitional residential edges that require thoughtful
compatibility measures.

4.1.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network (roads, sidewalks, transit,
bike infrastructure) includes Rock Quarry Road, which is experiencing a road widening
project with GDOT collaboration. The widening is expected to result in a short-term
reduction in traffic congestion and an improvement in driver’s experience and comfort,
while in the long-term traffic volume will increase. The road will be extending beyond its
intersection at North Henry Boulevard, to Old Conyers Road and eventually from Old
Conyers Road to the intersection of East Atlanta Road and Valley Hill Road. This project
will likely balance traffic distribution along Rock Quarry Road, North Henry Boulevard,
East Atlanta Road, Old Conyers Road, and Valley Hill Road. Rock Quarry Road is one
of ten roads that are functionally classified as non-local roads in the City of Stockbridge
according to the Georgia Department of Transportation, indicating the roadway’s higher
traffic volume potential and its capacity for serving longer trips. The MLK Sr. Heritage
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 7

Trail connects Rock Quarry Road to the downtown region, runs parallel to the Norfolk
Southern Railway, and has sidewalks along it as part of a commemorative effort
honoring the legacy of MLK Sr., a former resident of the City; however, the sidewalks do
not extend to Rock Quarry Road. Red Oak Road has many residential units between
this road and Banks Road. Banks Road has many industrial uses along the eastern
portion of the road and many residential units between this road and Red Oak Road.
Reeves Parkway is a corridor connecting Rock Quarry Road to Rum Creek Parkway
with no uses along the corridor. Rum Creek Parkway extends from Reeves Parkway to
a dead end with three known industrial uses along the corridor. Sidewalks have sparse
presence throughout the area. They exist within the Elevate Apartment Complex and
extend northward to Reeves Parkway and southward to the beginning of the
deceleration lane at the apartment complex’s entrance. These sidewalks do not connect
to any of the city’s commercial spaces, community amenities and centers, or other
residential communities, indicating the sidewalks’ low connectivity and signifying low
community usage rates. No transit or bike infrastructure is present at the location.
Utilities and public infrastructure, along with known deficiencies or constraints, are
documented in supporting materials.

4.1.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements
include the Economic Development Goal to attract/retain high-quality, diverse
employers with quality facilities (Chapter 4, p. 42), policies supporting business
retention/expansion and reinvestment in declining/vacant industrial sites, Future Land
Use policies encouraging rational commercial/industrial nodes and avoiding
incompatible strip development (Chapter 4, p. 44), Action items ED.1–ED.3, ED.6
(Business Partnership, Economic Development Plan, Site Designation), and
Transportation actions supporting Rock Quarry Road widening and multi-use paths
(T.7). Alignment Explanation: The proposed vision and actions directly advance the
Comprehensive Plan’s economic development framework by targeting reinvestment in
the dominant HI-zoned industrial cluster along Rock Quarry Road, consistent with the
Plan’s emphasis on industrial growth along SR 155/US 23 corridors and site readiness.
By incorporating vegetative buffers and access management, the study reinforces
Future Land Use policies for compatibility and “sense of place” while leveraging the
Plan’s Transportation element for coordinated widening and trail extensions. These
strategies position the area as a job-generating node that supports the City’s broader
goal of balanced growth without encroaching on residential character.

4.1.5. Key Issues & Opportunities

Issue/Opportunity 1: Underutilized Heavy Industrial parcels limiting job growth and site
readiness. The large contiguous HI district contains older mining, warehouse, and fleet-
maintenance uses with aging infrastructure that constrains expansion. Modern flex-
space redevelopment can attract advanced manufacturing and logistics firms.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 8

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Conduct industrial site inventory and business
retention survey.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Upgrade utilities and access roads serving the
core HI district.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop underutilized HI parcels into modern
industrial flex space with rail/truck access.
• Potential Partners: City Economic Development and Community Development
Departments, Henry County Development Authority, existing industrial property
owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA Economic Development grants, U.S.
EDA Public Works grants, local SPLOST, private developer contributions.

Issue/Opportunity 2: Industrial-residential interface conflicts along eastern and
southern edges. HI zoning directly abuts limited MFR and SR parcels, creating noise,
visual, and traffic concerns at the transition zones visible on the zoning map.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install wayfinding signage and basic landscaping
buffers at residential-industrial interfaces.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Implement voluntary façade and screening
improvements through a matching grant program.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Construct a dedicated industrial access road
bypassing residential neighborhoods.
• Potential Partners: City Community Development Department, property owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: Local general fund, Georgia DCA CDBG, private
performance agreements.

Issue/Opportunity 3: Limited multimodal connectivity and sparse sidewalks. Sidewalks
exist only within the Elevate Apartments and do not connect to commercial or other
residential areas; no bike or transit infrastructure is present.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Extend MLK Sr. Heritage Trail sidewalks to Rock
Quarry Road.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Add pedestrian-scale lighting along key collector
roads.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Establish shared-use path connections to future
city-wide trail network.
• Potential Partners: City Public Works Department, GDOT District 3.
• Potential Funding Sources: GDOT Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP),
SPLOST.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 9

Issue/Opportunity 4: Opportunity to leverage ongoing Rock Quarry Road widening.
GDOT widening will reduce short-term congestion but increase long-term volumes,
creating a window for coordinated industrial access improvements.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Apply for quick-turnaround technical assistance
for site readiness assessment.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop an Industrial Business Park marketing
plan.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Establish a formal Industrial Park with shared
infrastructure.
• Potential Partners: GDOT, City Economic Development, ARC.
• Potential Funding Sources: GDOT Local Government Road and Street
Program, EDA grants.

Issue/Opportunity 5: Lack of unified wayfinding and marketing for the industrial cluster.
The area functions as an industrial node but lacks identity or coordinated promotion.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Host quarterly “Industrial Roundtable” with local
manufacturers and install wayfinding signage.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Create small business technical assistance
program tailored to heavy industrial users.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Launch targeted recruitment campaign for
advanced manufacturing.
• Potential Partners: Henry County Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Department
of Economic Development.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia Department of Labor workforce funds,
local SPLOST.

4.1.6. Vision & Planning Framework By 2040, the Rock Quarry Road Northern Portion
will evolve into a modern, well-buffered heavy industrial corridor that serves as
Stockbridge’s primary economic engine. Dominated by Heavy Industrial (HI) zoning
across 73% of the area, the district will feature upgraded flex-industrial facilities, shared
infrastructure, and strategic rail/truck access while maintaining clear vegetative buffers
and compatibility standards at interfaces with the limited Multi-Family Residential and
Suburban Residential pockets. The vision delivers high-quality jobs, efficient goods
movement, and reinvestment that respects adjacent neighborhoods, aligning with the
City’s goal of targeted economic growth along established industrial corridors.

4.1.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Economic Development. Rationale: The
zoning map is dominated by a large, contiguous block of HI – Heavy Industrial District
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 10

(purple) occupying the majority of the northern portion, with smaller transitional pockets
of MFR, SR, and limited commercial zoning along Rock Quarry Road. This spatial
pattern points to an industrial cluster that offers the greatest planning impact through
targeted economic strategies such as business recruitment, site readiness, and
industrial revitalization rather than broad land-use rebalancing. The area’s scale and
location make it a priority for near-term economic implementation. Key Indicators
Observed: Large contiguous Heavy Industrial zoning, proximity of industrial uses to
residential edges requiring compatibility management, potential underutilized or
transitional parcels along the road corridor. Alternative Category: Land Use (secondary,
as compatibility between industrial and residential is important but secondary to the
economic opportunity presented by the dominant HI zoning).

4.1.8. Implementation Strategy
4.1.8.1 Priority Projects

Short-Term (0–2 Years): Conduct industrial site inventory and business retention survey
along Rock Quarry Road corridor. Launch targeted outreach to existing HI-zoned
property owners for expansion/upgrade needs. Install wayfinding signage and basic
landscaping buffers at residential-industrial interfaces. Host quarterly “Industrial
Roundtable” with local manufacturers. Apply for quick-turnaround technical assistance
grant for site readiness assessment.
Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Upgrade utilities and access roads serving the core HI district.
Develop an Industrial Business Park marketing plan and online portal. Implement
voluntary facade and screening improvements through a matching grant program.
Create a small business technical assistance program tailored to heavy industrial users.

Long-Term (5+ Years): Redevelop underutilized HI parcels into modern industrial flex
space with rail/truck access. Establish a formal Industrial Park with shared
infrastructure. Construct a dedicated industrial access road bypassing residential
neighborhoods.

4.1.8.2 Potential Partners City of Stockbridge Departments of Economic Development
and Community Development, Henry County Development Authority, existing industrial
property owners, Georgia Department of Economic Development, Atlanta Regional
Commission (ARC) for workforce programs.

4.1.8.3 Funding Sources Local SPLOST or general fund for site inventory and
signage, Georgia DCA Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) or Economic
Development grants, U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Public Works
grants, Georgia Department of Labor workforce training funds, private developer
contributions via performance agreements.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 11

4.2 Area B – Rock Quarry Road, Southern Portion
4.2.1. Executive Summary Area B along the southern portion of Rock Quarry Road is a
predominantly residential neighborhood characterized by Multi-Family Residential
(MFR) zoning (60.47%) and Suburban Residential (SR) zoning (7.89%). The area
features aging housing stock, limited housing diversity, and sparse pedestrian
connectivity to parks and commercial nodes. With notable cost-burdened households
and younger median ages in some tracts, the primary planning focus is Housing
Strategies. The plan envisions a stable, diverse residential neighborhood that
capitalizes on its existing zoning to provide a range of housing choices for working
families and seniors through rehabilitation, infill, and improved walkability while
supporting broader city housing supply goals.
4.2.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan Focused planning is needed in Area B due to
extensive aging multi-family and suburban residential development showing signs of
deferred maintenance, which threatens neighborhood stability and property values.
Additional challenges include limited housing type diversity under current zoning,
affordability pressures, gaps in sidewalk infrastructure, and inconsistent rental property
oversight. Opportunities exist for strategic infill, home repair programs, density bonuses,
and pedestrian improvements, especially with planned Rock Quarry Road extensions.
This plan advances the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use elements
by promoting preservation, rehabilitation, and increased housing choices while
enhancing walkability and neighborhood quality of life.

4.2.3. Study Area Description

4.2.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area B encompasses 589 parcels totaling 572.0 acres
along the southern portion of Rock Quarry Road. As shown in Appendix 5.2, Map 1, the
study area is positioned as a predominantly residential neighborhood within the City of
Stockbridge, with curvilinear subdivision streets and limited commercial nodes serving
the surrounding multi-family and suburban residential development.

4.2.3.2 Existing Conditions Appendix 5.1, Figure 1 reveals the following zoning district
distribution: 60.47% for MFR, 19.54% for C2, 7.89% for SR, 7.26% for C3, 3.74% for OI,
and 1.09% for C1. Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 show dependent age groups
ranging from 37.0% to 40.2% across relevant census tracts. Predominant housing
occupancy figures are 1743 in Census Tract 13151070114 and 857 in Census Tract
13151070120. Cost-burdened population percentages are 54.52% in Census Tract
13151070114 and 22.04% in Census Tract 13151070120. Birth rates among women
aged 15-50 in the past 12 months are 1.4% and 6.5% respectively. Median ages are
28.4 and 36.7 years. Poverty rates are 9.3% and 3.4%. Land use patterns, built
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 12

environment, and environmental features remain as documented in the research
materials.

4.2.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network (roads, sidewalks, transit,
bike infrastructure) includes Rock Quarry Road, which forms the western and northern
boundary of the study area and carries predominant multi-family residential (brown)
zoning along much of its frontage interspersed with suburban residential (yellow)
pockets. This alignment positions the road as the central residential spine, poised for
future extensions that could unlock higher-density infill and stronger pedestrian
linkages. Aerial imagery reveals tightly packed multi-family buildings hugging the
eastern side, with winding subdivision streets fanning outward into wooded pockets and
nearby parks. Miller Rd weaves through the central and eastern zones, where suburban
residential (yellow) zoning frames both sides alongside occasional multi-family clusters,
marking it as a meandering local collector that stitches the curvilinear neighborhood
fabric together. Oakland Blvd cuts across the eastern section under prevailing suburban
residential (yellow) zoning, acting as an intimate neighborhood thoroughfare dotted with
modest commercial nodes that serve the surrounding homes. Stephens Av hugs the
southern perimeter, bordered by suburban residential (yellow) zoning, functioning as a
quiet boundary street whose sidewalks remain patchy and rarely reach parks or shops.
Sidewalks appear only sporadically across the area and seldom bridge residential
pockets to parks or commercial hubs. At present, the study area has no transit service
or dedicated bicycle facilities.
4.2.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements
include the Housing Goal to provide variety of housing choices for changing needs and
lifestyles (Chapter 4, p. 43), policies for preserving/enhancing older neighborhoods
through rehabilitation and infill, Action items LU.6 (Housing Study) and LU.7 (Downtown
Residential Analysis update), and Future Land Use support for density increases where
infrastructure allows and mixed-use infill. Alignment Explanation: This study area directly
implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use elements by
focusing on preservation, infill, and diversity within the predominant MFR and SR
zoning. Actions such as density bonuses, home repair programs, and pedestrian
improvements advance the Plan’s call for neighborhood stability, affordability
monitoring, and walkable residential environments while supporting the broader goal of
adding 800+ housing units in the near term. The framework ensures residential growth
complements the City’s transportation investments along Rock Quarry Road.

4.2.5. Key Issues & Opportunities

Issue/Opportunity 1: Aging housing stock and maintenance needs in SR/MFR areas.
Extensive multi-family and suburban residential development shows signs of deferred
maintenance that affects neighborhood stability and property values.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 13

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Complete neighborhood housing condition
assessment and resident survey; launch home repair and weatherization
program.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Roll out first-time homebuyer assistance program.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop larger MFR sites into mixed-income
townhome and apartment communities.
• Potential Partners: City Community Development Department, nonprofit
housing providers.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA HOME and Housing Trust Fund,
HUD CDBG, local SPLOST.

Issue/Opportunity 2: Limited housing diversity and affordability pressures.
Predominant MFR and SR zoning limits options for smaller households and workforce
housing.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Update subdivision regulations for smaller-lot
infill in SR zones.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop Affordable Housing Action Plan with
density bonus incentives; construct 50–75 new workforce housing units.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Expand multi-family zoning along Rock Quarry
Road with pedestrian connections.
• Potential Partners: ARC Housing programs, local developers.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA Community Development Block
Grant, HUD funds.

Issue/Opportunity 3: Sparse sidewalks and poor connectivity to parks and commercial
nodes. Sidewalks are limited and do not link residential areas to amenities.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install sidewalk and streetlight improvements
along key residential collectors.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Create neighborhood-scale pocket park network.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Develop linear greenway connections.
• Potential Partners: City Public Works Department.
• Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST, GDOT TAP.
Issue/Opportunity 4: Rental property management and code enforcement gaps. High
percentage of rental units in MFR districts requires stronger oversight.

• Priority Actions:
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 14

o Short-Term (0–2 years): Create rental licensing and property
maintenance code enforcement pilot.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Implement design guidelines for new construction.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Establish ongoing monitoring program.
• Potential Partners: City Code Enforcement, property owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: Local general fund.
Issue/Opportunity 5: Opportunity for transit-oriented infill near future Rock Quarry
extensions. Road widening and extensions will improve access, enabling higher-density
residential redevelopment.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Complete assessment.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Partner on new units.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop sites.
• Potential Partners: GDOT, ARC.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA grants, private development.

4.2.6. Vision & Planning Framework The Rock Quarry Road Southern Portion will
become a stable, diverse residential neighborhood that capitalizes on its 60% Multi-
Family Residential and 8% Suburban Residential zoning to offer a range of housing
choices for working families and seniors. Curvilinear subdivision streets and limited
commercial nodes will be enhanced with improved walkability, pocket parks, and infill
that respects the suburban character while increasing housing supply and affordability
along this established corridor.

4.2.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Housing Strategies. Rationale: The map
shows predominant MFR – Multiple Family Residential (brown) and SR – Suburban
Residential (yellow) zoning across the southern portion, with only limited C3 commercial
pockets. This residential-heavy pattern makes housing strategies the highest-impact
focus—addressing density, housing type diversity, affordability, and future growth in an
established suburban neighborhood along Rock Quarry Road. Key Indicators Observed:
Extensive Multi-Family and Suburban Residential districts, curvilinear subdivision street
patterns typical of residential development, smaller commercial nodes serving the
housing areas. Alternative Category: Land Use (useful for fine-tuning but less impactful
than targeted housing policy in a predominantly residential area).

4.2.8. Implementation Strategy

4.3.8.1 Priority Projects

Short-Term (0–2 Years): Complete neighborhood housing condition assessment and
resident survey. Launch a home repair and weatherization program for SR/MFR
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 15

properties. Update subdivision regulations for smaller-lot infill in SR zones. Create a
rental licensing and property maintenance code enforcement pilot.

Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Develop an Affordable Housing Action Plan with density bonus
incentives. Construct or partner on 50–75 new workforce housing units on underutilized
MFR parcels. Install sidewalk and streetlight improvements along key residential
collectors. Roll out a first-time homebuyer assistance program.

Long-Term (5+ Years): Redevelop larger MFR sites into mixed-income townhome and
apartment communities. Expand multi-family zoning along Rock Quarry Road with
pedestrian connections. Create a neighborhood-scale pocket park network. Zoning &
Regulatory Recommendations: Amend HI district text to add “light industrial” and “flex”
uses as permitted (with performance standards for noise, odor, and truck traffic). Create
a Rock Quarry Industrial Corridor Overlay requiring 50-ft vegetative buffers where
abutting residential. Offer density/intensity bonuses for projects providing public access
easements or green infrastructure. Expedited permitting track for projects creating 20+
jobs.

4.2.8.2 Potential Partners City of Stockbridge Economic Development and Community
Development Departments, Henry County Development Authority, existing industrial
property owners, Georgia Department of Economic Development, Atlanta Regional
Commission (ARC) for workforce programs.
4.2.8.3 Funding Sources Local SPLOST or general fund for site inventory and
signage, Georgia DCA Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) or Economic
Development grants, U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Public Works
grants, Georgia Department of Labor workforce training funds, private developer
contributions via performance agreements.

4.3 Area C – Highway 138 West
4.3.1. Executive Summary Area C encompasses the western segment of Highway
138, a heavily commercial corridor dominated by Heavy Commercial (C3) zoning
(43.32%) with supporting Planned Unit Development and residential areas. The current
auto-oriented strip development pattern features visual clutter, traffic congestion at key
intersections, and limited pedestrian infrastructure. The primary planning focus is
Economic Development. This plan seeks to transform the corridor into a vibrant,
pedestrian-oriented commercial gateway with unified design standards, landscaped
medians, and strategic mixed-use nodes that improve business viability while enhancing
multimodal connectivity.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 16

4.3.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan This corridor requires dedicated planning attention
because its dominant Heavy Commercial zoning has resulted in fragmented, auto-
oriented strip development that creates visual clutter, traffic delays, and reduced
economic vitality. Key challenges include insufficient pedestrian facilities, excessive
parking requirements, and a lack of cohesive corridor identity. Opportunities lie in
shifting toward quality design, mixed-use redevelopment at key nodes, and complete-
street improvements. The plan directly implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Future
Land Use, Economic Development, and Transportation goals by creating a more
attractive and functional gateway that supports business growth and improves quality of
life along this major arterial.

4.3.3. Study Area Description

4.3.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area C encompasses 358 parcels totaling 425.0 acres
along the western segment of Highway 138 and its intersecting parkways. As shown in
Appendix 5.3, Map 1, the study area is positioned as a major commercial corridor and
gateway within the City of Stockbridge, featuring heavy commercial frontage with
supporting planned unit development and residential areas.

4.3.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area C is dominated by heavy
commercial activity along the Highway 138 corridor, with supporting planned unit
development and scattered residential pockets. Appendix 5.3, Figure 1 reveals that
area’s zoning distribution reflects this intensity, with Heavy Commercial (C3) districts
covering 43.32% of the area, followed by Planned Unit Development at 21.29% and
smaller shares of Suburban Residential, Multi-Family Residential, and other categories.

Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 reveal varied conditions across the study area’s
census tracts. Dependent age groups (under 18 and 65+) range from 25.3% to 47.7%,
with several tracts showing notably high proportions of children and seniors, suggesting
a population with significant family and elder care needs that could benefit from
improved local services and walkable access along the corridor. Housing occupancy
leans toward owner-occupied in most tracts (55.89%–76.49%), though one tract shows
strong renter occupancy at 78.67%, indicating a mix of stable homeowners and more
transient renter households typical of commercial corridor edges. Cost-burdened
household rates vary widely from 27.94% to as high as 69.29%, highlighting pockets of
severe affordability pressure that may limit residents’ ability to access nearby
commercial amenities or contribute to local economic vitality. Birth rates among women
aged 15-50 are generally low to moderate (0.0%–8.9%), while median ages span from
30.9 to 52.4 years, pointing to a blend of younger working-age residents and older
established households. Poverty rates range from 4.8% to 30.6%, with higher
concentrations in certain tracts that align with elevated cost-burden levels. Overall, the
maps portray a corridor serving a socioeconomically diverse population where
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 17

commercial redevelopment must address affordability challenges and support multi-
generational needs to enhance neighborhood stability and economic performance.

4.3.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network (roads, sidewalks, transit,
bike infrastructure) features Highway 138 West, also designated State Route 138,
slicing straight through the study area as its dominant arterial. Heavy commercial (red)
zoning blankets the highway frontage, supported by planned unit development and
suburban residential zones behind it, painting the corridor as a textbook auto-oriented
commercial artery burdened by intersection delays yet primed for median plantings and
full complete-street retrofits. Aerial imagery captures broad highway frontage lined with
sizable commercial parcels, sprawling parking fields, and patches of vacant land. Mt
Zion Pkwy crosses the study area at prominent nodes where heavy commercial (red)
zoning clusters at the junctions amid residential transitions, marking it as a vital gateway
route that would gain from coordinated wayfinding, pedestrian islands, and complete-
street upgrades. Reeves Creek Way emerges in the northern reach with mixed
commercial and residential zoning, serving as a modest local connector tucked behind
the main commercial strip. Sidewalks remain patchy and rarely tie residential
neighborhoods to parks or shops. At present, the study area has no transit service or
dedicated bicycle facilities.

4.3.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements
include Future Land Use policies discouraging strip development and encouraging
“sense of place” along major commercial corridors (Chapter 4, p. 44), the Economic
Development Goal and policies for reinvestment and quality commercial development
(Chapter 4, p. 42), and Transportation actions for complete streets and corridor
improvements on Hwy 138 (T.8). Alignment Explanation: The vision and actions
reinforce the Comprehensive Plan’s Future Land Use and Economic Development
chapters by shifting the C3-heavy corridor from auto-oriented strip to a designed, mixed-
use gateway consistent with medium-density mixed-use designations around major
intersections. Corridor overlay standards and pedestrian enhancements directly support
the Plan’s call for rational commercial nodes, quality design, and multi-modal
connectivity, advancing both economic vitality and transportation goals.

4.3.5. Key Issues & Opportunities

Issue/Opportunity 1: Auto-oriented strip development and visual clutter in C3 areas.
Heavy Commercial zoning dominates highway frontage but lacks cohesive design and
landscaping.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Prepare Corridor Improvement Plan and install
unified wayfinding/gateway signage; launch façade improvement matching
grant.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 18

o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop design guidelines for new C3 construction
and construct median landscaping.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop underutilized C3 parcels into mixed-
use nodes.
• Potential Partners: City Economic Development and Public Works, local
property owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: GDOT TAP, SPLOST, Georgia DCA Revitalization
Grants.

Issue/Opportunity 2: Traffic congestion at key intersections. Major intersections
experience peak-hour delays affecting commercial viability.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Conduct traffic signal timing study.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Construct pedestrian refuge islands.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Reconfigure segments into complete-street
sections with bike lanes.
• Potential Partners: GDOT District 3, ARC Transportation.
• Potential Funding Sources: FHWA grants via GDOT, SPLOST.

Issue/Opportunity 3: Insufficient pedestrian and shared parking infrastructure. Limited
sidewalks and excessive parking minimums discourage walkability.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install high-visibility crosswalks.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop shared parking standards and district
parking plan.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Establish Business Improvement District.
• Potential Partners: City Public Works, business owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: GDOT Local Maintenance grants, private
contributions.

Issue/Opportunity 4: Opportunity to introduce mixed-use in PUD and select C3 sites.
PUD areas (21%) provide flexibility for residential-over-commercial development.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Stakeholder workshops.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Rezone select sites.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Implement overlay standards.
• Potential Partners: City Community Development.
• Potential Funding Sources: ARC Livable Communities grants.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 19

Issue/Opportunity 5: Lack of unified corridor identity. Multiple jurisdictions and
ownerships create fragmented appearance.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Façade grants.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Landscaping standards.
o Long-Term (5+ years): BID formation.
• Potential Partners: Local commercial owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: Private matching funds.
4.3.6. Vision & Planning Framework Highway 138 West and its intersecting parkways
will transform into a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented heavy commercial corridor anchored by
the 43% C3 zoning. Unified design standards, landscaped medians, and mixed-use
nodes will create a high-quality gateway that supports business growth, reduces auto-
oriented sprawl, and provides upper-story residential opportunities while maintaining
efficient traffic flow.

4.3.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Economic Development. Rationale:
Large contiguous areas of C3 – Heavy Commercial District (red) dominate the map,
especially along the major roadways, with supporting PUD and SR zoning. The
corridor’s commercial intensity and strategic highway location make economic
development the primary focus for business retention, corridor revitalization, and
leveraging the 2026 zoning for investment. Key Indicators Observed: Extensive Heavy
Commercial zoning along highway frontage, mix with Planned Unit Development areas,
key intersections and parkway access points. Alternative Category: Transportation &
Mobility (relevant for access management but secondary to the clear commercial
economic opportunity).

4.3.8. Implementation Strategy
4.3.8.1 Priority Projects

Short-Term (0–2 Years): Prepare a Corridor Improvement Plan with property-owner
input. Install unified wayfinding and gateway signage at key intersections. Launch a
storefront façade improvement matching grant program. Conduct traffic signal timing
study at Mount Zion and Lake Spivey intersections.

Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Construct median landscaping and pedestrian refuge islands
along Hwy 138. Develop shared parking standards and a district parking management
plan. Roll out design guidelines for new C3 construction.

Long-Term (5+ Years): Redevelop key underutilized C3 parcels into mixed-use nodes
with upper-story residential. Reconfigure portions of the corridor into a complete-street
section with bike lanes. Establish a Business Improvement District (BID) for ongoing
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 20

maintenance. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Create a Highway 138
Commercial Corridor Overlay requiring building frontage within 30 ft of the right-of-way
and reduced parking minimums. Rezone select large C3 sites to allow mixed-use (add
residential as conditional use). Text amendment for unified sign standards and
landscaping requirements. Fast-track permitting for projects meeting overlay design
criteria.

4.3.8.2 Potential Partners City Economic Development, Community Development, and
Public Works Departments, GDOT District 3, local commercial property owners, Atlanta
Regional Commission Transportation Committee.

4.3.8.3 Funding Sources GDOT Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and Local
Maintenance & Improvement Grants, SPLOST for corridor improvements, Georgia DCA
Revitalization Grants, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) grants via GDOT, private
business contributions via façade program.

4.4 Area D – Davidson Parkway
4.4.1. Executive Summary Area D along Davidson Parkway is a transitional mixed-use
corridor marked by jurisdictional fragmentation between Stockbridge and Clayton
County, featuring a heterogeneous mix of Planned Unit Development (44.68%), Multi-
Family Residential, and commercial zoning. Inconsistent standards and limited
multimodal connectivity create compatibility challenges. The primary planning focus is
Land Use. The plan envisions Davidson Parkway as a unified, coordinated mixed-use
corridor with seamless land-use transitions, shared infrastructure, and gateway features
that support orderly growth and potential future annexation.

4.4.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan Planning attention is essential for Area D due to
the jurisdictional boundary that creates fragmented zoning standards, review processes,
and development compatibility issues along the parkway. Challenges include
inconsistent land-use regulations, missing multi-modal connections, and underutilized
parcels at the county line. Opportunities exist for coordinated master planning, mixed-
use overlays, and improved connectivity. This plan advances the Comprehensive Plan’s
Future Land Use goals by promoting inter-jurisdictional coordination, rational
development patterns, and enhanced sense of place along this important connector.

4.4.3. Study Area Description

4.4.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area D encompasses 285 parcels totaling 236.0 acres
along Davidson Parkway. As shown in Appendix 5.4, Map 1, the study area is positioned
as a transitional mixed-use corridor at the jurisdictional boundary between Stockbridge
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 21

and Clayton County, featuring a heterogeneous mix of planned unit development, multi-
family residential, and commercial zoning.

4.4.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area D reflects a transitional
corridor with a heterogeneous mix of planned unit development, multi-family residential,
light industrial, and commercial uses. Appendix 5.4, Figure 1 reveals that zoning is
diverse, led by Planned Unit Development at 44.68%, followed by Multi-Family
Residential (19.96%), Light Industrial (14.01%), and smaller commercial and rural
residential components.

Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 illustrate notable variation across the study area’s
census tracts. Dependent age groups range from 30.5% to 40.2%, indicating a
meaningful share of children and seniors who would benefit from improved connectivity
and compatible land-use transitions. Housing occupancy shows a split, with owner-
occupied units at 42.3% in one tract and renter-occupied at 53.77% in another,
reflecting the mixed residential character typical of jurisdictional boundary zones. Cost-
burdened rates are elevated at 41.26% and 47.31%, suggesting affordability pressures
that could be exacerbated by uncoordinated development. Birth rates vary from 6.2% to
13.0%, while median ages range from 30.2 to 38.9 years, pointing to a relatively young
to middle-aged population with family-forming potential. Poverty reaches 36.5% in one
tract, highlighting economic vulnerability in parts of the area. Collectively, the maps
portray a corridor with diverse demographic needs where jurisdictional coordination is
critical to balance residential stability, employment opportunities, and orderly growth.

4.4.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network (roads, sidewalks, transit,
bike infrastructure) centers on Davidson Pkwy, which cuts through the study area’s core
as the principal corridor. Planned unit development (green) and multi-family residential
zoning occupy the Stockbridge side while Clayton County general business (hatched)
zoning sits opposite, highlighting the roadway’s role as a jurisdictional hinge that
demands joint master planning, mixed-use overlays, and shared infrastructure for
smooth compatibility. Aerial imagery contrasts curvilinear residential subdivisions on the
east with larger commercial and industrial parcels to the west, accented by tree cover
and open land at the dividing line. State Route 138 borders the western edge, carrying
mixed commercial and residential zoning along the boundary and serving as a regional
gateway that could accommodate enhanced signage and cross-jurisdictional
coordination. Sidewalks are limited and seldom connect residential areas to parks or
commercial destinations. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated
bicycle facilities.

4.4.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements
include the Future Land Use Goal to establish land-use designations consistent with
UDC and encourage mixed-use (Chapter 4, p. 44), policies supporting inter-
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 22

jurisdictional coordination and rational commercial nodes, and Action items LU.2, LU.5
(LCI implementation and updates). Alignment Explanation: The Davidson Parkway
study advances the Comprehensive Plan’s Future Land Use chapter by addressing
cross-jurisdictional compatibility and promoting mixed-use transitions in a
heterogeneous zoning environment. The MOU, overlay district, and joint master plan
directly implement the Plan’s emphasis on orderly development, infill, and quality design
while supporting regional coordination through ARC. This framework ensures the
corridor contributes to the City’s vision of balanced growth and sense of place.

4.4.5. Key Issues & Opportunities

Issue/Opportunity 1: Jurisdictional fragmentation and inconsistent zoning standards.
Portions fall under Clayton County General Business zoning, creating review and
compatibility challenges.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Establish joint City-County working group and
complete unified land-use inventory.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop joint corridor master plan and implement
coordinated signage.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Pursue annexation of mutually beneficial parcels.
• Potential Partners: Stockbridge and Clayton County Community Development
Departments, ARC.
• Potential Funding Sources: ARC Local Government Assistance grants,
Georgia DCA Efficiency Grants.

Issue/Opportunity 2: Transitional land-use compatibility along the parkway. Mix of
commercial, planned unit, and residential zoning requires better buffering and
transitions.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Host stakeholder workshops.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Pilot shared infrastructure district.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop transitional parcels into unified mixed-
use nodes.
• Potential Partners: Property owners, both counties.
• Potential Funding Sources: Federal planning grants (HUD/FHWA).

Issue/Opportunity 3: Limited multi-modal connectivity. Parkway lacks continuous
sidewalks or trails linking jurisdictions.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Inventory gaps.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 23

o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Construct pathway segments.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Build full multi-modal pathway.
• Potential Partners: City Public Works.
• Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST, GDOT TAP.

Issue/Opportunity 4: Underutilized parcels at jurisdictional boundary. Vacant or low-
intensity sites present redevelopment potential.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): MOU for consistent standards.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Create Mixed-Use Overlay.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Implement overlay on both sides.
• Potential Partners: ARC.
• Potential Funding Sources: Joint funding mechanisms.
Issue/Opportunity 5: Opportunity for gateway improvements. Current entry points lack
identity.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Coordinated signage.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Landscaping.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Mixed-use redevelopment.
• Potential Partners: Property owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST.
4.4.6. Vision & Planning Framework Davidson Parkway will function as a unified,
jurisdictionally coordinated mixed-use corridor that resolves the current patchwork of
PUD, MFR, and Clayton County General Business zoning. A seamless transition of land
uses, shared infrastructure, and gateway features will create a stable employment-
residential edge that supports orderly growth and potential future annexation while
enhancing connectivity between the two jurisdictions.

4.4.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Land Use. Rationale: The map displays
a heterogeneous mix of C3, General Business (noted as under Clayton County
jurisdiction), PUD, MFR, and other districts, with an explicit jurisdictional boundary note.
This complexity makes land-use coordination, compatibility, and potential annexation
the highest-impact study focus for this transitional area. Key Indicators Observed: Mixed
commercial, planned, and residential zoning, specific note on Clayton County “General
Business” jurisdiction, Davidson Parkway as a connector between jurisdictions.
Alternative Category: Economic Development (viable but less urgent than resolving the
mixed zoning and jurisdictional issues first).
4.4.8. Implementation Strategy
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 24

4.4.8.1 Priority Projects

Short-Term (0–2 Years): Establish a joint City-County working group on Davidson
Parkway corridor. Complete a unified land-use and zoning inventory map. Host
stakeholder workshops with property owners in both jurisdictions.

Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Develop a joint corridor master plan covering both jurisdictions.
Implement coordinated signage and gateway improvements. Pilot a shared
infrastructure improvement district.
Long-Term (5+ Years): Pursue annexation of Clayton County parcels where mutually
beneficial. Redevelop transitional parcels into unified mixed-use nodes. Construct
continuous multi-modal pathway along Davidson Parkway. Zoning & Regulatory
Recommendations: Adopt an inter-jurisdictional Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
for consistent review standards. Create a Davidson Parkway Mixed-Use Overlay
(applicable on both sides) allowing compatible commercial/residential transitions. Text
amendment to align parking and buffering standards between jurisdictions.
4.4.8.2 Potential Partners Stockbridge and Clayton County Community Development
Departments, Henry County and Clayton County Commissions, Atlanta Regional
Commission, property owners along Davidson Parkway.

4.4.8.3 Funding Sources ARC Local Government Assistance grants, joint SPLOST or
special district funding, Georgia DCA Local Government Efficiency Grants, federal
planning grants (FHWA or HUD) for cross-jurisdictional studies.

4.5 Area E – North Henry Boulevard / Highway 42 (Northern
Segment)
4.5.1. Executive Summary The northern segment of North Henry Boulevard/Highway
42 is an auto-oriented commercial corridor dominated by Heavy Commercial (C3)
zoning (30.94%) with supporting Suburban Residential and Rural Residential areas.
Fragmented driveway access, missing pedestrian infrastructure, and traffic conflicts
characterize the area. The primary planning focus is Transportation & Mobility. The plan
will transform the corridor into a safer, more efficient multimodal arterial through access
management, continuous sidewalks, complete-street design, and limited mixed-use
redevelopment.

4.5.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan This study area needs focused attention because
the heavy commercial frontage along the major arterial generates frequent turning
movements and safety concerns due to unregulated curb cuts and limited pedestrian
facilities. Challenges include fragmented access, missing sidewalks and crosswalks,
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 25

and an auto-dominated streetscape. Opportunities include implementing access
management, constructing multimodal infrastructure, and introducing limited mixed-use
development. The plan directly supports the Comprehensive Plan’s Transportation
element by enhancing safety, connectivity, and multi-modal travel along this key corridor
while aligning with Future Land Use policies for rational corridor development.

4.5.3. Study Area Description

4.5.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area E encompasses 128 parcels totaling 201.0 acres
along the northern segment of North Henry Boulevard and Highway 42. As shown in
Appendix 5.5, Map 1, the study area is positioned as an auto-oriented commercial
corridor within the City of Stockbridge, with heavy commercial frontage and residential
pockets set back from the arterial.

4.5.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area E features heavy commercial
frontage along the Highway 42 corridor with residential areas set back, creating an auto-
oriented strip character. Appendix 5.5, Figure 1 reveals that zoning is led by Heavy
Commercial (C3) at 30.94%, supported by Suburban Residential (24.48%), C2
(21.13%), and Rural Residential (18.03%).

Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 show dependent age groups ranging from 36.0%
to 40.2%, indicating a solid base of children and seniors who would benefit from safer
pedestrian connections and reduced traffic conflicts. Housing occupancy is primarily
owner-occupied (42.3%–73.43%), though renter presence is notable in some tracts.
Cost-burdened rates range from 33.21% to 48.08%, signaling moderate to significant
affordability pressures that could be alleviated by improved multimodal access to jobs
and services. Birth rates vary from 1.0% to 10.1%, while median ages span 28.6 to 36.1
years, reflecting a relatively young working-age population suited to corridor
employment and redevelopment opportunities. Poverty levels range from 19.5% to
36.5%, with higher concentrations suggesting economic vulnerability in portions of the
area. The maps collectively portray a corridor with a working-age, family-oriented
population where transportation safety and access improvements can directly support
economic activity and residential quality of life.

4.5.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network (roads, sidewalks, transit,
bike infrastructure) is anchored by North Henry Blvd, also identified as Highway 42,
which stretches the full length of the study area as its primary arterial. Heavy
commercial (red) zoning lines the highway frontage, backed by suburban residential
(yellow) and rural residential zones, characterizing the corridor as a typical auto-
oriented strip with fragmented driveway access that is well-suited for raised medians
and complete-street redesign. Aerial imagery shows commercial buildings and parking
lots pressed directly against the highway, with wooded residential pockets set farther
back. Valley Hill Rd appears along the eastern edge under suburban residential zoning,
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 26

acting as a secondary local connector that offers only modest east-west movement
behind the commercial strip. Sidewalks are sparse and rarely bridge residential
neighborhoods to parks or commercial nodes. At present, the study area has no transit
service or dedicated bicycle facilities.
4.5.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements
include the Transportation Goal to enhance multi-modal connectivity and roadway
safety (Chapter 4, p. 52), policies for complete streets and access management on
major arterials, and Action items T.1, T.8, T.9 (traffic plans, sidewalk plan,
bicycle/pedestrian plan). Alignment Explanation: This small area study implements the
Comprehensive Plan’s Transportation element by applying access management and
complete-street standards along the C3-dominated Highway 42 corridor. Actions such
as median installations, sidewalk construction, and overlay standards directly support
the Plan’s calls for improved pedestrian connectivity, traffic safety, and multi-modal
facilities on key arterials, while limited mixed-use rezoning aligns with Future Land Use
policies for rational corridor development.

4.5.5. Key Issues & Opportunities

Issue/Opportunity 1: Fragmented driveway access and traffic conflicts in C3 frontage.
Heavy Commercial zoning lines the highway with numerous unregulated curb cuts.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install raised medians and turn-lane
improvements; launch driveway consolidation study.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Adopt corridor-specific access management
ordinance.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Reconfigure segments into boulevard with
dedicated bike lanes.
• Potential Partners: City Public Works, GDOT District 3.
• Potential Funding Sources: GDOT HSIP, CMAQ funds, SPLOST.

Issue/Opportunity 2: Missing pedestrian infrastructure. Limited sidewalks and
crosswalks create safety gaps.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Add high-visibility crosswalks and pedestrian
signals.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Construct continuous sidewalk and multi-use trail.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Add signalized intersections where gaps exist.
• Potential Partners: ARC Transportation Division, local businesses.
• Potential Funding Sources: GDOT Safe Routes to School, SPLOST.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 27

Issue/Opportunity 3: Opportunity to introduce limited mixed-use. C3 frontage with
residential behind offers potential for residential-over-commercial.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Voluntary access management program.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Rezone limited frontage.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop large parcels with buildings pulled to
street.
• Potential Partners: City Community Development.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA grants.
Issue/Opportunity 4: Streetscape and traffic calming deficiencies. Auto-oriented
character lacks amenities.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Traffic calming measures.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Streetscape enhancements.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Transit stop integration.
• Potential Partners: Local business owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: FHWA grants.
Issue/Opportunity 5: Parking management and shared-use potential. Excessive
surface parking reduces developable area.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Study.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Shared parking standards.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Structured parking in redevelopment.
• Potential Partners: Property owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: Private contributions.

4.5.6. Vision & Planning Framework The northern segment of North Henry
Boulevard/Highway 42 will become a safer, more efficient multimodal arterial corridor
where Heavy Commercial zoning is supported by consolidated access, continuous
sidewalks, and complete-street design. Auto-oriented strip patterns will evolve into
organized commercial nodes with improved pedestrian and bicycle connections to
adjacent residential pockets, enhancing safety and economic activity.
4.5.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Transportation & Mobility. Rationale:
Heavy C3 – Heavy Commercial District zoning lines the Highway 42 / North Henry
Boulevard corridor, with residential areas set back. The auto-oriented strip pattern and
major arterial location make transportation and mobility the primary focus—addressing
access management, traffic flow, and multimodal connections that directly support the
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 28

commercial zoning. Key Indicators Observed: Heavy Commercial zoning concentrated
along the highway, auto-oriented development form with limited cross streets,
residential pockets behind the commercial frontage. Alternative Category: Economic
Development (important, but mobility improvements would unlock greater near-term
implementation impact).

4.5.8. Implementation Strategy

4.5.8.1 Priority Projects
Short-Term (0–2 Years): Install raised medians and turn-lane improvements at key
commercial driveways. Launch a driveway consolidation study and voluntary access
management program. Add high-visibility crosswalks and pedestrian signals at major
intersections.
Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Construct continuous sidewalk and multi-use trail along the
corridor. Implement traffic calming measures and streetscape enhancements. Develop a
corridor-specific access management ordinance.

Long-Term (5+ Years): Reconfigure select segments into a boulevard with dedicated
bike lanes and transit stops. Redevelop large C3 parcels with buildings pulled to the
street and shared parking. Add signalized intersections where connectivity gaps exist.
Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Adopt a North Henry Boulevard Access
Management Overlay reducing driveway spacing and requiring cross-access
easements. Rezone limited C3 frontage to allow mixed-use with residential above. Text
amendment lowering parking requirements for commercial uses within ¼ mile of future
transit.

4.5.8.2 Potential Partners City Public Works and Community Development
Departments, GDOT District 3, local business owners along Hwy 42, ARC
Transportation Planning Division.

4.5.8.3 Funding Sources GDOT Safe Routes to School and Transportation Alternatives
grants, SPLOST for sidewalk and streetscape projects, Federal Congestion Mitigation
and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds, Georgia DCA Community Development grants.

4.6 Area F – East Atlanta Road, Southern Section
4.6.1. Executive Summary Area F along the southern section of East Atlanta Road is
an established suburban residential neighborhood dominated by Suburban Residential
(SR 39.15%) and Planned Unit Development (PUD 17.83%) zoning, with proximity to
Clarks and Barber Parks. Limited housing variety, incomplete sidewalk connections, and
pressure for incompatible redevelopment are key concerns. The primary planning focus
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 29

is Housing Strategies. The vision is for a high-quality suburban neighborhood
strengthened by conservation overlays, targeted infill, diverse housing options, and
enhanced park connectivity that preserves character while meeting evolving resident
needs.
4.6.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan Focused planning is warranted in Area F to
address pressures for incompatible redevelopment in established SR and PUD areas
and to capitalize on the asset of park adjacency. Challenges include limited housing
diversity, missing sidewalk links to parks and schools, and underutilized opportunities
for accessory dwelling units and cottage courts. Opportunities exist for neighborhood
conservation standards, age-restricted and workforce housing, and improved
walkability. This plan implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Transportation
policies by promoting infill that respects neighborhood character, enhancing
connectivity, and contributing to citywide housing goals.

4.6.3. Study Area Description

4.6.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area F encompasses 308 parcels totaling 529.0 acres
along the southern section of East Atlanta Road. As shown in Appendix 5.6, Map 1, the
study area is positioned as an established suburban residential neighborhood within the
City of Stockbridge, featuring proximity to Clarks and Barber Parks and a mix of
suburban and planned unit development zoning.
4.6.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area F consists of established
suburban residential development with supporting rural residential, downtown, and
limited commercial pockets, anchored by proximity to local parks. Appendix 5.6, Figure
1 reveals that zoning is predominantly Suburban Residential (39.15%) and Planned Unit
Development (17.83%), with additional Rural Residential (20.42%) and smaller multi-
family and commercial components.

Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 indicate dependent age groups at 36.0% and
39.6%, reflecting a balanced population with notable numbers of children and seniors
who would benefit from enhanced park connectivity and safe walking routes. Housing
occupancy is strongly owner-occupied (62.26% and 78.6%), suggesting stable
neighborhoods where preservation and targeted infill are appropriate. Cost-burdened
rates of 40.0% to 48.08% point to moderate affordability pressures that could be
addressed through housing diversity and maintenance incentives. Birth rates range from
1.0% to 4.1%, while median ages of 36.1 and 39.4 years indicate a middle-aged, family-
oriented demographic. Poverty levels are 8.3% and 25.2%, with variation that aligns
with cost-burden trends. The maps portray a relatively stable suburban area with owner-
heavy housing stock and family/senior needs, where park-adjacent improvements and
conservation strategies can strengthen community character and quality of life.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 30

4.6.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation infrastructure for Area F centers on
East Atlanta Rd, which establishes the western boundary. Suburban residential (yellow)
and planned unit development (green) zoning run along the frontage beside parkland,
positioning the road as the main residential collector whose incomplete sidewalks to
Clarks and Barber Parks create clear opportunities for conservation overlays and better
connectivity. Aerial imagery vividly displays curvilinear subdivisions spreading east of
the road, dense single-family housing, and immediate park adjacency. Bryant St cuts
through the northern section, bordered by suburban residential (yellow) and planned
unit development (green) zoning, functioning as a local grid street inside the established
suburban neighborhood that could support expanded sidewalk links and park access.
Oakland Blvd extends through the eastern section under prevailing suburban residential
(yellow) zoning, serving as an internal neighborhood street with strong potential for
conservation overlays and improved park connections. Sidewalks appear only
sporadically and seldom connect residential areas to parks or commercial nodes. At
present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities.

4.6.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements
include housing policies for variety of choices, neighborhood preservation, and infill
(Chapter 4, p. 43), Future Land Use support for density where design and infrastructure
allow, and Transportation actions for sidewalk and trail connectivity (T.9). Alignment
Explanation: The study area advances the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future
Land Use goals by promoting infill, conservation overlays, and housing diversity within
the dominant SR/PUD framework. Park connectivity and walkability improvements
implement the Plan’s multi-modal transportation policies, ensuring residential growth
enhances rather than erodes neighborhood character while contributing to city-wide
housing supply targets.

4.6.5. Key Issues & Opportunities

Issue/Opportunity 1: Need for neighborhood conservation and infill standards.
Established SR and PUD areas face pressure for incompatible redevelopment.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Neighborhood walkability audit and resident
survey; expand park programming.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Adopt Residential Infill Overlay and Neighborhood
Conservation Overlay District.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop larger PUD sites into higher-density
mixed-income neighborhoods.
• Potential Partners: City Community Development, HOAs.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA HOME, HUD CDBG, SPLOST.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 31

Issue/Opportunity 2: Housing diversity and age-restricted options. Limited variety
beyond single-family and existing multi-family.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Voluntary maintenance incentives.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Partner on 40–60 new age-restricted or workforce
units.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Density bonus for park-adjacent projects.
• Potential Partners: Nonprofit housing developers.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia Housing Trust Fund, LWCF for parks.
Issue/Opportunity 3: Missing sidewalk links and safe routes to schools/parks.
Connectivity to Clarks and Barber Parks is incomplete.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Construct missing sidewalk links.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Safe-route-to-school improvements.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Create linear parks and greenways.
• Potential Partners: City Public Works.
• Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST, GDOT TAP.
Issue/Opportunity 4: Opportunity for ADUs and cottage courts. Zoning allows but lacks
design standards.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Update regulations.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Text amendment for cottage courts.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Implement with design review.
• Potential Partners: Local developers.
• Potential Funding Sources: Local general fund.

Issue/Opportunity 5: Park adjacency and green infrastructure. Proximity to existing
parks is an asset but underutilized for connectivity.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Beautification events.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Trail connections.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Greenway network.
• Potential Partners: Parks Department, HOAs.
• Potential Funding Sources: Federal LWCF.

4.6.6. Vision & Planning Framework East Atlanta Road’s southern section will remain
a high-quality suburban residential neighborhood strengthened by its 39% SR and 18%
PUD zoning. Targeted infill, neighborhood conservation overlays, and enhanced park
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 32

connections will preserve character while adding diverse housing types, walkable links
to Clarks and Barber Parks, and limited neighborhood-scale commercial nodes that
serve residents.

4.6.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Housing Strategies. Rationale: The
zoning is overwhelmingly SR – Suburban Residential and PUD – Planned Unit
Development, with smaller commercial and MFR pockets. This established residential
fabric along East Atlanta Road makes housing strategies the best fit for guiding density,
housing diversity, and neighborhood-scale development. Key Indicators Observed:
Dominant Suburban Residential and Planned Unit Development zoning, nearby parks
(Clarks and Barber Parks) supporting residential character, mix of multi-family and
single-family style zoning. Alternative Category: Land Use (supportive but housing
policy would deliver more direct implementation value).
4.6.8. Implementation Strategy

4.6.8.1 Priority Projects
Short-Term (0–2 Years): Neighborhood walkability audit and resident priority survey.
Expand park programming and connectivity to adjacent residential areas. Offer
voluntary property maintenance and energy-efficiency retrofit incentives.

Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Develop a Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District.
Construct missing sidewalk links and safe-route-to-school improvements. Partner on
40–60 new age-restricted or workforce housing units in PUD areas.

Long-Term (5+ Years): Redevelop larger PUD sites into higher-density mixed-income
neighborhoods. Create a network of linear parks and greenways connecting Clarks and
Barber Parks. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Adopt a Residential Infill
Overlay for SR/PUD allowing smaller lots and ADUs with design review. Text
amendment for cottage court and townhome developments in appropriate locations.
Density bonus for projects preserving or enhancing park adjacency.

4.6.8.2 Potential Partners City Community Development and Public Works
Departments, local homeowner associations, nonprofit housing developers.

4.6.8.3 Funding Sources Georgia DCA HOME and Housing Trust Fund, HUD CDBG
for neighborhood improvements, local SPLOST for parks and sidewalks, Federal Land
and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) for park enhancements.

4.7 Area G – North Henry Boulevard, Central Section
4.7.1. Executive Summary The central section of North Henry Boulevard is a mixed
commercial-residential corridor with significant C2 (52.53%) and supporting Multi-Family
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 33

Residential zoning. Underperforming commercial frontage, aging façades, excessive
surface parking, and limited vertical mixed-use characterize the area. The primary
planning focus is Economic Development. The plan envisions a dynamic mixed-use
corridor with enhanced streetscapes, reduced parking ratios, and a new mixed-use
overlay that creates walkable nodes blending ground-floor retail, offices, and upper-
story residential.

4.7.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan This corridor requires targeted planning because
current commercial development suffers from vacancies, visual underperformance, and
inefficient land use due to parking oversupply and zoning that restricts vertical mixed-
use. Challenges include poor pedestrian and transit access and a lack of development
incentives. Opportunities exist to introduce façade improvements, mixed-use incentives,
and multimodal enhancements along this visible boulevard. The plan advances the
Comprehensive Plan’s mixed-use corridor revitalization and Economic Development
goals by creating live-work-play environments and supporting economic reinvestment.

4.7.3. Study Area Description

4.7.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area G encompasses 265 parcels totaling 215.0 acres
along the central section of North Henry Boulevard. As shown in Appendix 5.7, Map 1,
the study area is positioned as a mixed commercial-residential corridor within the City of
Stockbridge, with significant commercial frontage and supporting multi-family residential
development.

4.7.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area G centers on a mixed
commercial-residential corridor along North Henry Boulevard, with prominent
commercial frontage and supporting multi-family residential. Appendix 5.7, Figure 1
reveals that zoning is led by C2 at 52.53%, with Multi-Family Residential at 19.26% and
smaller office, suburban residential, and commercial components.

Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 highlight a socioeconomically mixed population.
Dependent age groups range from 30.5% to 40.2%, indicating families and seniors who
could gain from improved pedestrian access and mixed-use vitality. Housing occupancy
is mixed, with renter-occupied units reaching 63.78% in some tracts, suggesting a need
for stable rental options alongside owner-occupied stock. Cost-burdened rates are
elevated (33.21%–54.52%), pointing to affordability challenges that mixed-use
redevelopment and housing incentives could help address. Birth rates vary from 1.0% to
13.0%, while median ages span 28.4 to 38.9 years, reflecting a younger, working-age
demographic well-suited to live-work opportunities. Poverty levels range from 5.6% to
25.2%, with higher concentrations in certain tracts. The maps portray a corridor with
diverse age and income profiles where economic revitalization through mixed-use
development can improve housing options and activate the boulevard for residents and
businesses alike.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 34

4.7.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network in Area G is led by North
Henry Blvd, which runs through the center as the primary corridor. C2 general
commercial (pink) and heavy commercial (red) zoning dominate the frontage while
multi-family residential zones provide support, portraying the boulevard as a mixed-use
commercial spine plagued by vacancies, aging façades, and abundant surface parking
yet offering strong potential for mixed-use overlays, façade grants, and parking
reductions. Aerial imagery captures commercial strips, large parking areas, and multi-
family buildings directly along the boulevard with residential neighborhoods set behind.
Miller Rd borders the eastern edge, flanked by commercial and multi-family residential
zoning, operating as a local connector that currently delivers only limited pedestrian and
transit access to the boulevard. Sidewalks remain patchy and rarely link residential
sections to parks or commercial nodes. At present, the study area has no transit service
or dedicated bicycle facilities.

4.7.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements
include Future Land Use policies encouraging mixed-use development and sense of
place on corridors (Chapter 4, p. 44), Economic Development policies for reinvestment
and quality commercial development (Chapter 4, p. 42), and Transportation policies for
multi-modal connectivity. Alignment Explanation: This study directly implements the
Comprehensive Plan’s mixed-use and corridor revitalization strategies by introducing a
Mixed-Use Overlay along the C2/C3 frontage of North Henry Boulevard. Façade grants,
parking reductions, and residential incentives align with the Plan’s goals for live-work-
play environments and economic reinvestment while advancing pedestrian and bicycle
connectivity objectives.

4.7.5. Key Issues & Opportunities

Issue/Opportunity 1: Underperforming commercial frontage in C2/C3 zones.
Vacancies and aging façades along the boulevard limit economic activity.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Business vacancy and market analysis; façade
and landscaping improvement grants.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop Mixed-Use Development Incentive
Program.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Transform underutilized strips into vibrant mixed-
use districts.
• Potential Partners: City Economic Development, local landlords.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA Economic Development grants, ARC
Livable Communities.
Issue/Opportunity 2: Limited residential integration above commercial. Zoning restricts
vertical mixed-use.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 35

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install pedestrian-scale lighting.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Rezone select parcels and create North Henry
Mixed-Use Overlay.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Extend multi-modal connections.
• Potential Partners: City Community Development, developers.
• Potential Funding Sources: TAD or SPLOST, private equity.
Issue/Opportunity 3: Parking oversupply and lack of shared options. Excessive
surface parking reduces developable land.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Street furniture at key nodes.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Reduce minimum parking ratios.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Require structured/shared parking.
• Potential Partners: Property owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: Private contributions.
Issue/Opportunity 4: Pedestrian and transit access gaps. High visibility but poor
multimodal links.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Gateway features.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Enhanced transit stops.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Complete multi-modal network.
• Potential Partners: GDOT, ARC.
• Potential Funding Sources: GDOT grants.

Issue/Opportunity 5: Opportunity for expedited mixed-use permitting. Incentive
structure is missing.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Analysis.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Expedited review for 30% residential component.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Full district transformation.
• Potential Partners: Henry County Chamber.
• Potential Funding Sources: Opportunity Zone incentives (if applicable).

4.7.6. Vision & Planning Framework North Henry Boulevard’s central section will
become a dynamic mixed-use corridor leveraging its 52% C2 and supporting MFR
zoning to blend commercial vitality with upper-story residential. Enhanced streetscapes,
reduced parking ratios, and a new mixed-use overlay will create walkable nodes with
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 36

ground-floor retail, offices, and housing that activate the boulevard while buffering
adjacent neighborhoods.

4.7.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Economic Development. Rationale:
Significant C3 – Heavy Commercial and MFR zoning front North Henry Boulevard in the
central section, creating a mixed commercial-residential corridor. Economic
development is the highest-impact focus for revitalizing commercial uses, incentivizing
mixed-use infill, and capitalizing on the boulevard’s visibility and traffic. Key Indicators
Observed: Heavy Commercial zoning along the boulevard, adjacent Multi-Family
Residential support, central corridor location with high visibility. Alternative Category:
Transportation & Mobility (valuable for access but secondary to economic activation of
the zoned commercial areas).

4.7.8. Implementation Strategy
4.7.8.1 Priority Projects

Short-Term (0–2 Years): Business vacancy and market analysis along central North
Henry Boulevard. Façade and landscaping improvement grants for C3 properties. Install
pedestrian-scale lighting and street furniture at key nodes.
Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Develop a Mixed-Use Development Incentive Program.
Construct gateway features and enhanced transit stops. Rezone select C3 parcels to
support ground-floor commercial with residential above.

Long-Term (5+ Years): Transform underutilized commercial strips into vibrant mixed-use
districts. Extend multi-modal connections to adjacent residential neighborhoods. Zoning
& Regulatory Recommendations: Create a North Henry Mixed-Use Overlay allowing
residential uses above commercial in C3 zones. Reduce minimum parking ratios and
require structured/shared parking. Offer expedited review and fee waivers for projects
meeting 30% residential component.

4.7.8.2 Potential Partners City Economic Development and Community Development
Departments, local commercial landlords and developers, ARC Economic Development
Committee, Henry County Chamber of Commerce, Stockbridge Main Street Program
and Downtown Development Authority (for eastward parcels).

4.7.8.3 Funding Sources Georgia DCA Economic Development grants, ARC Livable
Communities Initiative grants, local TAD or SPLOST, federal Opportunity Zone
incentives (if applicable) and private equity.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 37

4.8 Area H – North Stockbridge
4.8.1. Executive Summary North Stockbridge is a maturing suburban community
dominated by Planned Unit Development (41.18%) and Suburban Residential (20.5%)
zoning with large-lot, curvilinear subdivision patterns. Outdated PUD standards, limited
housing variety, and missing neighborhood-scale commercial and trail connections are
primary issues. The primary planning focus is Housing Strategies. The vision is for a
well-connected, family-oriented suburban area with updated PUD standards, internal
trail networks, strategic density near future village centers, and preserved open space.

4.8.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan Planning is needed in North Stockbridge to
modernize outdated PUD regulations and guide future build-out in a manner that
enhances connectivity and housing diversity while preserving suburban character.
Challenges include limited internal linkages, minimal commercial/civic uses, and
infrastructure readiness gaps. Opportunities include updating development standards,
developing townhomes and single-family units on vacant parcels, and creating village-
scale nodes. This plan supports the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land
Use goals by promoting quality residential growth and multi-modal connectivity.

4.8.3. Study Area Description

4.8.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area H encompasses 606 parcels totaling 534.0 acres
in the northern portion of Stockbridge. As shown in Appendix 5.8, Map 1, the study area
is positioned as a maturing suburban community within the City of Stockbridge,
characterized by large-lot planned unit development and suburban residential
subdivisions with curvilinear street patterns.

4.8.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area H is low-intensity suburban
residential with large-lot subdivisions and curvilinear streets, supported by planned unit
development and limited commercial uses. Appendix 5.8, Figure 1 demonstrates that
zoning is dominated by Planned Unit Development (41.18%), Rural Residential
(27.88%), and Suburban Residential (20.5%).
Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 show dependent age groups ranging from 36.0%
to 41.8%, reflecting a family- and senior-oriented population well-suited to suburban
living with enhanced connectivity. Housing occupancy is strongly owner-occupied
(62.26%–74.26%), indicating stable neighborhoods where preservation and targeted
density are priorities. Cost-burdened rates vary from 24.13% to 48.08%, suggesting
moderate affordability needs in parts of the area. Birth rates range from 1.0% to 10.1%,
while median ages span 28.6 to 45.6 years, pointing to a mix of younger families and
middle-aged/older residents. Poverty levels are 6.4% to 25.2%. The maps portray a
maturing suburban community with strong owner-occupancy and multi-generational
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needs, where updated standards and trail connections can maintain character while
addressing evolving housing demands..

4.8.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation infrastructure in Area H is anchored by
East Atlanta Rd, which borders the eastern edge. Planned unit development (green)
and suburban residential (yellow) zoning extend along the boundary, marking the road
as the primary suburban connector that could readily accommodate internal trail
extensions. Aerial imagery reveals large-lot subdivisions and curvilinear streets lying
west of the road, underscoring the low-density suburban character. Valley Hill Rd
crosses the southern and central portions under planned unit development (green) and
suburban residential (yellow) zoning, serving as a key local collector that ties the
maturing suburban community to the wider city network. Gallup Dr appears as an
internal road in the central area with planned unit development and suburban residential
zoning, functioning as a local subdivision street within the curvilinear pattern that
currently offers limited commercial or civic uses. Highlane Dr is visible as an internal
road in the northern section where suburban residential zoning predominates, operating
as a low-volume local street that supports the low-intensity suburban fabric and holds
promise for updated PUD standards and trail connections. Sidewalks are sparsely
distributed and seldom connect residential areas to parks or commercial nodes. At
present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities.

4.8.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements
include the Housing Goal to provide variety of housing choices and preserve/enhance
older neighborhoods (Chapter 4, p. 43), Future Land Use policies supporting planned
unit development with open space and connectivity, and Transportation policies for
multi-use trails. Alignment Explanation: The North Stockbridge framework advances the
Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use elements by updating PUD
standards and introducing targeted density near village centers while preserving
suburban character. Trail connections and form-based elements implement
neighborhood preservation and multi-modal connectivity policies, ensuring the area
contributes to the City’s goals for balanced residential growth and quality development.

4.8.5. Key Issues & Opportunities

Issue/Opportunity 1: Outdated PUD standards lacking connectivity and open space.
Large PUD areas have curvilinear streets but limited internal linkages.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Complete North Stockbridge Neighborhood Plan
update and install entry features.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Update PUD standards to require 15% open
space and internal connectivity; construct internal multi-use trails.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Create mixed-use village center.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 39

• Potential Partners: City Community Development, HOAs.
• Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST, Georgia DCA Growth Management
grants.

Issue/Opportunity 2: Limited housing variety in established subdivisions.
Predominantly single-family pattern with minimal multi-family.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Homeowner association capacity-building.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop 100+ new single-family and townhome
units on vacant PUD parcels.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Rezone select SR to MFR near village center.
• Potential Partners: Local developers.
• Potential Funding Sources: HUD CDBG, private impact fees.
Issue/Opportunity 3: Missing neighborhood-scale commercial and civic uses.
Residents travel outside the area for daily needs.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Directional signage.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Add small commercial nodes at intersections.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Full village center with civic uses.
• Potential Partners: ARC.
• Potential Funding Sources: Local SPLOST.
Issue/Opportunity 4: Utility and infrastructure readiness for build-out. Some areas lack
full extensions.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Inventory.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Extend utilities.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Support full build-out.
• Potential Partners: City Public Works.
• Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST.
Issue/Opportunity 5: Form-based elements for new development. Current standards
are conventional.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Plan update.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Adopt form-based code elements.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Implement in new projects.
• Potential Partners: City staff.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 40

• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA grants.

4.8.6. Vision & Planning Framework North Stockbridge will mature as a well-
connected, family-oriented suburban community built around its 41% PUD and 20% SR
zoning. Updated PUD standards, internal trail networks, and strategic higher-density
nodes near future village centers will preserve open space, enhance neighborhood
cohesion, and provide diverse housing options while maintaining the low-intensity
suburban character.
4.8.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Housing Strategies. Rationale: The map
is dominated by PUD – Planned Unit Development, SR – Suburban Residential, and
MFR zoning in a low-intensity suburban pattern. Housing strategies represent the
greatest planning impact for guiding future residential growth, density transitions, and
housing affordability in North Stockbridge. Key Indicators Observed: Extensive Planned
Unit Development and Suburban Residential districts, curvilinear subdivision layout,
minimal commercial zoning intrusion. Alternative Category: Sustainability (greenfield
character is present but housing demand is the more immediate priority).

4.8.8. Implementation Strategy

4.8.8.1 Priority Projects
Short-Term (0–2 Years): Complete a North Stockbridge Neighborhood Plan update.
Install neighborhood entry features and directional signage. Launch a homeowner
association capacity-building program.

Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Construct internal multi-use trails connecting subdivisions.
Develop 100+ new single-family and townhome units on vacant PUD parcels. Add
neighborhood-scale commercial nodes at key intersections.

Long-Term (5+ Years): Create a mixed-use village center with civic uses and higher-
density housing. Extend utility infrastructure to support full build-out. Zoning &
Regulatory Recommendations: Update PUD standards to require 15% open space and
internal connectivity. Rezone select SR areas to MFR for targeted density near future
village center. Adopt form-based code elements for new development in North
Stockbridge.

4.8.8.2 Potential Partners City Community Development and Public Works
Departments, local developers and HOAs, ARC for regional growth coordination.

4.8.8.3 Funding Sources Local SPLOST for infrastructure and trails, Georgia DCA
Growth Management grants, HUD CDBG for neighborhood improvements, private
development impact fees.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 41

4.9 Area I – Atlanta Highway / Highway 42
4.9.1. Executive Summary Area I along Atlanta Highway (Highway 42) functions as an
eastern gateway arterial corridor with a mix of Multi-Family Residential (48.5%) and
commercial zoning fronting the highway. High-speed traffic, safety concerns, access
management issues, and limited east-west connectivity are prominent challenges. The
primary planning focus is Transportation & Mobility. The plan will create a safer
complete-street arterial with access management, buffered bike lanes, upgraded
intersections, and limited mixed-use redevelopment to balance traffic movement with
improved pedestrian safety.

4.9.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan This arterial corridor demands focused planning
due to safety risks generated by high-speed traffic and frequent turning movements
from MFR and commercial uses, compounded by missing sidewalks, poor crossings,
and fragmented connectivity. Opportunities include implementing corridor overlays,
complete-street retrofits, and enhanced safety features. The plan directly implements
the Comprehensive Plan’s Transportation Goal by improving multimodal safety and
access management while supporting compatible corridor development under Future
Land Use policies.
4.9.3. Study Area Description

4.9.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area I encompasses 887 parcels totaling 646.0 acres
along Atlanta Highway (Highway 42). As shown in Appendix 5.9, Map 1, the study area
is positioned as an eastern gateway arterial corridor within the City of Stockbridge,
featuring multi-family residential and commercial zoning fronting the highway with
supporting uses behind.

4.9.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area I features multi-family
residential and commercial uses fronting the Atlanta Highway arterial, with supporting
office, planned unit, and suburban residential backing the corridor. Appendix 5.9, Figure
1 demonstrates that zoning is led by Multi-Family Residential at 48.5%, with Office
Institutional (24.76%) and smaller commercial components.

Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 depict a corridor with younger to middle-aged
residents and notable affordability pressures. Dependent age groups range from 34.3%
to 41.7%, indicating families and seniors who would benefit from safer crossings and
better east-west connections. Housing occupancy is predominantly owner-occupied
(62.02%–94.36%), though renter presence exists. Cost-burdened rates of 25.53% to
45.07% highlight moderate to high housing cost challenges that improved mobility could
help mitigate by enhancing access to opportunities. Birth rates are 1.5% and 5.9%,
while median ages of 34.3 and 37.3 years reflect a working-age population suited to
arterial corridor redevelopment. Poverty levels range from 10.6% to 18.4%. The maps
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 42

portray an eastern gateway area with a relatively young demographic and cost
pressures, where transportation safety enhancements can support residential stability
and economic function.

4.9.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network in Area I is defined by Atlanta
Highway / Highway 42 (also designated State Route 42), which passes through the
center as the primary arterial. Multi-family residential (brown) and commercial zoning
front the highway with office institutional backing, portraying the corridor as an eastern
gateway arterial marked by high-speed traffic, frequent turning movements, and missing
sidewalks that present clear opportunities for access management, buffered bike lanes,
and complete-street retrofits. Aerial imagery shows the highway lined with commercial
and multi-family development, wooded areas, and curvilinear residential streets set
back from the roadway. Brannan Rd borders the southern and eastern edge, flanked by
multi-family residential and commercial zoning, serving as a local connector that
requires focused safety and access management measures. Sidewalks remain sparse
throughout the area and rarely connect residential neighborhoods to parks or
commercial destinations. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated
bicycle facilities.

4.9.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements
include the Transportation Goal and policies for complete streets, access management,
and multi-modal improvements on major arterials (Chapter 4, p. 52), and Future Land
Use policies for rational development along corridors. Alignment Explanation: The
Atlanta Highway study implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Transportation priorities
through corridor overlay standards, access management, and complete-street retrofits
along the mixed MFR/commercial zoning. Safety and pedestrian improvements directly
support the Plan’s sidewalk, trail, and safety action items while limited mixed-use
allowances align with Future Land Use goals for compatible corridor development.

4.9.5. Key Issues & Opportunities
Issue/Opportunity 1: High-speed arterial safety and access management. MFR and
commercial frontage generates frequent turning movements.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install pedestrian refuge islands and upgraded
signals; conduct corridor safety audit with GDOT.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Build continuous sidewalk and buffered bike lanes;
adopt Atlanta Highway Corridor Overlay.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Rebuild intersections as roundabouts or complete
streets.
• Potential Partners: GDOT District 3, City Public Works.
• Potential Funding Sources: GDOT HSIP, SPLOST, ARC Transportation grants.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 43

Issue/Opportunity 2: Limited east-west connectivity. Curvilinear residential streets
behind the corridor lack cross connections.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Business access management education.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Coordinated landscaping and lighting.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Encourage transit-oriented mixed-use on large
parcels.
• Potential Partners: ARC, adjacent property owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: Federal Highway Safety Improvement Program.
Issue/Opportunity 3: Opportunity for limited residential in commercial zones. Select
C3/C2 sites can support mixed-use.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Safety audit.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop multi-modal corridor plan.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Allow limited residential with design review.
• Potential Partners: City Economic Development.
• Potential Funding Sources: GDOT Local Government Road Program.
Issue/Opportunity 4: Pedestrian crossing deficiencies. Major crossings lack refuge and
signals.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Refuge islands.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Sidewalk construction.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Modern intersections.
• Potential Partners: Local business groups.
• Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST.

Issue/Opportunity 5: Corridor identity and landscaping. Fragmented appearance along
the highway.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Education program.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Landscaping standards.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelopment incentives.
• Potential Partners: Property owners.
• Potential Funding Sources: ARC grants.

4.9.6. Vision & Planning Framework Atlanta Highway/Highway 42 will operate as a
safe, complete-street arterial corridor where MFR, PUD, and commercial zoning are
supported by access management, buffered bike lanes, and upgraded intersections.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 44

The area will balance traffic-generating uses with improved pedestrian safety and
limited mixed-use redevelopment that strengthens the City’s eastern gateway.

4.9.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Transportation & Mobility. Rationale: The
area lies directly along Atlanta Highway/Highway 42 with a mix of MFR, PUD,
commercial, and SR zoning fronting the arterial. The corridor’s scale and traffic-
generating uses make transportation and mobility the primary study focus to improve
safety, access, and connectivity supporting the 2026 zoning. Key Indicators Observed:
Commercial and multi-family zoning along the major highway, mix of planned and
suburban residential backing the corridor, limited east-west connectivity visible in the
layout. Alternative Category: Economic Development (relevant for corridor businesses
but mobility infrastructure would enable broader implementation).

4.9.8. Implementation Strategy
4.9.8.1 Priority Projects

Short-Term (0–2 Years): Install pedestrian refuge islands and upgraded signal heads at
major crossings. Conduct corridor safety audit with GDOT. Launch business access
management education program.
Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Build continuous sidewalk and buffered bike lanes along Hwy 42
frontage. Implement coordinated landscaping and lighting standards. Develop a multi-
modal corridor plan.

Long-Term (5+ Years): Rebuild select intersections as modern roundabouts or
signalized complete streets. Encourage redevelopment of large parcels into transit-
oriented mixed-use. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Adopt an Atlanta Highway
Corridor Overlay with access management and complete-street standards. Allow limited
residential uses in commercial zones with design review. Text amendment for reduced
curb cuts and shared access requirements.

4.9.8.2 Potential Partners City Public Works, Community Development, and Economic
Development, GDOT District 3, ARC Transportation Division, adjacent property owners
and business groups.

4.9.8.3 Funding Sources GDOT Local Government Road and Street Program, Federal
Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), SPLOST for pedestrian infrastructure,
ARC Transportation grants.

4.10 Area J – Eastern Section of North Henry Boulevard
4.10.1. Executive Summary The eastern section of North Henry Boulevard is a stable
suburban residential area dominated by Suburban Residential (48.94%) and Planned
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 45

Unit Development zoning with scattered commercial nodes. Incremental infill pressure,
limited housing diversity, and gaps in pedestrian connectivity define current conditions.
The primary planning focus is Housing Strategies. The plan envisions strengthened
neighborhood character through targeted infill, cottage-style options, enhanced
walkability, and linear greenways while preserving the area’s residential fabric.

4.10.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan Focused planning is required in Area J to
manage infill development in SR and PUD zones without eroding neighborhood
character and to address gaps in housing variety and pedestrian infrastructure.
Challenges include missing sidewalk segments, limited design guidance for new
development, and underutilized opportunities for accessory dwelling units. Opportunities
exist for residential overlays, townhome infill, and greenway connections. This plan
advances the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use objectives by
promoting compatible infill, walkability, and diverse housing choices that enhance
quality of life.

4.10.3. Study Area Description

4.10.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area I encompasses 887 parcels totaling 646.0 acres
along Atlanta Highway (Highway 42). As shown in Appendix 5.10, Map 1, the study area
is positioned as an eastern gateway arterial corridor within the City of Stockbridge,
featuring multi-family residential and commercial zoning fronting the highway with
supporting uses behind.

4.10.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area J is stable suburban
residential with grid-and-curvilinear streets and scattered small commercial nodes.
Appendix 5.10, Figure 1 reveals that zoning is led by Suburban Residential at 48.94%,
with Planned Unit Development (9.57%), Multi-Family Residential (8.51%), and
supporting commercial districts.

Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 show dependent age groups at 36.0% and 40.2%,
indicating a family-oriented population that would benefit from improved walkability and
infill options. Housing occupancy is mixed, with renter-occupied units at 63.78% in one
tract, reflecting demand for both ownership and rental choices. Cost-burdened rates of
48.08% to 54.52% highlight notable affordability pressures that targeted housing
strategies and overlays can help address. Birth rates are low at 1.0% and 1.4%, while
median ages of 28.4 and 36.1 years point to a younger working-age demographic
suitable for diverse housing types. Poverty levels range from 9.3% to 25.2%. The maps
portray an established suburban neighborhood with younger residents and cost
challenges, where residential overlays, cottage-style infill, and greenway connections
can preserve character while meeting evolving needs.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 46

4.10.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation infrastructure in Area J centers on
North Henry Blvd, which forms the western boundary. Suburban residential (yellow) and
planned unit development zoning line the frontage with scattered commercial nodes,
indicating the boulevard functions as the main residential collector that holds strong
potential for neighborhood overlays and linear greenway connections. Aerial imagery
illustrates suburban residential lots and curvilinear streets extending east of the
boulevard. Miller Rd passes through the central portion, where suburban residential
(yellow) zoning is predominant along its length with occasional multi-family pockets,
operating as a local grid street inside the stable suburban fabric that can support
walkability, cottage-style infill, and design standards for building orientation. Oakland
Blvd borders the eastern edge under suburban residential (yellow) zoning, serving as a
boundary local street that offers opportunities for design standards and street tree
enhancements. Stephens Av traverses the southern portion, bordered by suburban
residential (yellow) zoning, functioning as a local connector within the grid-and-
curvilinear residential pattern. Sidewalks are sparsely distributed and seldom link
residential areas to parks or commercial nodes. At present, the study area has no transit
service or dedicated bicycle facilities.

4.10.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements
include the Housing Goal and policies promoting housing variety, infill, and
neighborhood preservation (Chapter 4, p. 43), Future Land Use support for low-density
mixed-use along corridors and residential infill, and Transportation policies for sidewalk
and greenway connectivity. Alignment Explanation: This study area implements the
Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use vision by applying overlays,
ADU/cottage standards, and infill incentives within the predominant SR/PUD zoning of
the eastern North Henry Boulevard section. Walkability and greenway actions advance
multi-modal connectivity goals, ensuring residential development enhances
neighborhood stability and contributes to the City’s overall housing supply and quality-
of-life objectives.
4.10.5. Key Issues & Opportunities

Issue/Opportunity 1: Neighborhood character preservation amid infill pressure. SR
and PUD zoning faces incremental change without design guidance.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Neighborhood character survey and design
guideline development; small-scale traffic calming.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Implement Residential Neighborhood Overlay
allowing cottage homes and ADUs; construct missing sidewalks.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop larger SR/PUD blocks into higher-
density walkable neighborhoods.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 47

• Potential Partners: City Community Development, HOAs.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA HOME, HUD CDBG, SPLOST.

Issue/Opportunity 2: Housing supply and diversity gaps. Limited options beyond
traditional single-family.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Partner with HOAs for clean-up events.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop 60–80 new townhome units on infill
parcels.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Create linear greenway along drainage features.
• Potential Partners: Local residential developers, ARC Housing.
• Potential Funding Sources: Georgia Housing Trust Fund, Federal Community
Services Block Grant.
Issue/Opportunity 3: Pedestrian connectivity to Boulevard and parks. Missing sidewalk
segments reduce walkability.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Traffic calming on local streets.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Safe pedestrian crossings.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Greenway network.
• Potential Partners: City Public Works.
• Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST.
Issue/Opportunity 4: Small neighborhood commercial nodes. Scattered C2/C1 pockets
can be better integrated.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Beautification events.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Establish small commercial node with design
standards.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Rezone targeted parcels from SR to MFR where
adjacent.
• Potential Partners: Local HOAs.
• Potential Funding Sources: Local general fund.

Issue/Opportunity 5: Design standards for building orientation and street trees.
Current development lacks consistent form.

• Priority Actions:
o Short-Term (0–2 years): Guideline development.
o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Add design standards.
o Long-Term (5+ years): Full implementation.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 48

• Potential Partners: City staff.
• Potential Funding Sources: ARC grants.

4.10.6. Vision & Planning Framework The eastern section of North Henry Boulevard
will strengthen its role as a stable suburban residential neighborhood with targeted infill
and neighborhood commercial nodes. Leveraging 49% SR and supporting PUD zoning,
the area will feature enhanced walkability, cottage-style housing options, and linear
greenways that connect to the broader city trail network while preserving the grid-and-
curvilinear residential fabric.
4.10.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Housing Strategies. Rationale:
Predominant SR – Suburban Residential and PUD zoning, with scattered MFR and
smaller commercial pockets, defines the eastern section. Housing strategies are the
most impactful focus for managing residential development patterns, infill, and
neighborhood character along this segment of North Henry Boulevard. Key Indicators
Observed: Large Suburban Residential and Planned Unit Development areas, grid and
curvilinear residential street networks, limited commercial nodes serving the housing.
Alternative Category: Land Use (helpful for transitions but housing policy would drive
greater near- to mid-term results).

4.10.8. Implementation Strategy

4.10.8.1 Priority Projects

Short-Term (0–2 Years): Neighborhood character survey and design guideline
development. Small-scale traffic calming on local residential streets. Partner with HOAs
for community clean-up and beautification events.

Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Construct missing sidewalk segments and safe pedestrian
crossings. Develop 60–80 new townhome units on appropriately zoned infill parcels.
Establish a small neighborhood commercial node with design standards.

Long-Term (5+ Years): Redevelop larger SR/PUD blocks into higher-density, walkable
neighborhoods. Create a linear greenway along existing drainage features. Zoning &
Regulatory Recommendations: Implement a Residential Neighborhood Overlay allowing
cottage homes and ADUs in SR zones. Rezone targeted parcels from SR to MFR where
adjacent to existing multi-family. Add design standards for building orientation and street
trees.

4.10.8.2 Potential Partners City Public Works and Community Development
Departments, local residential developers and HOAs, Atlanta Regional Commission
Housing programs.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 49

4.10.8.3 Funding Sources Georgia DCA HOME Program and Housing Trust Fund,
local SPLOST for sidewalks and greenways, HUD CDBG for neighborhood
revitalization, Federal Community Services Block Grant for community programs.
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 50

5. Appendices
5.1 Area A: Maps and Charts

Map 1: Zoning Map of Area A Figure 1: Percent of Total Land
Area by Zoning District for Area A

5.2 Area B: Maps and Charts

Map 1: Zoning Map of Area B Figure 1: Percent of Total Land
Area by Zoning District for Area B
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 51

5.3 Area C: Maps and Charts

Map 1: Zoning Map of Area C
Figure 1: Percent of Total Land
Area by Zoning District for Area C

5.4 Area D: Maps and Charts

Map 1: Zoning Map of Area D Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning
District for Area D
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 52

5.5 Area E: Maps and Charts

Map 1: Zoning Map of Area E Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by
Zoning District for Area E

5.6 Area F: Maps and Charts

Map 1: Zoning Map of Area F Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by
Zoning District for Area F
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 53

5.7 Area G: Maps and Charts

Map 1: Zoning Map of Area G
Figure 1: Percent of Total Land
Area by Zoning District for Area G

5.8 Area H: Maps and Charts

Map 1: Zoning Map of Area H Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by
Zoning District for Area H
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 54

5.9 Area I: Maps and Charts

Map 1: Zoning Map of Area I Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning
District for Area I

5.10 Area J: Maps and Charts

Map 1: Zoning Map of Area J Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by
Zoning District for Area J
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 55

5.11 All Areas: Demographic Maps

Map 1: Percent of Population in Dependent Age Groups by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026)

Map 2: Percent of Cost-Burdened Householders by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026)
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 56

Map 3: Birth Rates by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026)

Map 4: Median Ages by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026)
A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 57

Map 5: Percent of Predominant Housing Types by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026)

Map 6: Percent of Population Below Poverty Line by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026)
APRIL 13, 2026

Ryan Anderson

Community Development

VARIANCE CASE #VR-2026.01. (Council District 2) Consideration of a variance application for two setback variances
on Parcel #S20-03003000 on Wilson Avenue to allow for the construction of a new single-family detached dwelling.
Applicant: Jerry Robinson of BAC Construction. Zoned: SR. Property size: 0.613 +/- acres. Variance Request #1—
Reduce the front yard setback from the required 50 feet to 25 feet. Variance Request #2—Reduce the rear yard
setback from the required 40 feet to 20 feet.

The property is long and narrow. The existing setbacks would leave only a tiny, triangular-shaped buildable area,
making it infeasible to build the house. Staff recommendation: Approval, with three conditions: 1) the dwelling must
have at least 1,500 total heated square feet, which the SR district requires; 2) the applicant must submit a new site plan
which shows the driveway location off Wilson Avenue, whereby no vehicles would protrude into the street from the
driveway; and 3) the dwelling must comply with the UDC façade requirements. Planning Commission Action: Approval
with Staff’s three conditions.

0.00
VARIANCE CASE #VR-2026-01.

APPROVAL WITH CONDITIONS.
Henry County, GA

Overview

Legend
Parcels
Roads

147 ft

Parcel ID S20-03003000 Class Residential Owner BERNAL GOPAR Land $18,000
Property Acreage 0.61 Address LAURA & Value:
Address GOPAR-CARMONA Building $0 Last 2 Sales
District City/Stockbridge LUIS A Value: Date Price Reason Qual
103 ROSENWALD Misc $0 4/21/2023 $18,000 LM Q
CIR Value: 1/1/1945 $0 U U
STOCKBRIDGE, GA Total $18,000
30281 Value:

Parcel lines depicted on the maps do not re ect a true and exact representation of property boundaries and should not be relied upon for said purpose. Property boundary lines
are depicted on recorded plats available at the Henry County courthouse or can be determined by employing the services of a licensed surveyor.

Date created: 2/12/2026
Last Data Uploaded: 2/12/2026 1:13:26 AM

Developed by
LETTER OF INTENT

BAC Construction Inc
110 Walter Way Unit 1963
6785209509
bac@bac-constructioninc.com

February 26, 2026

Stockbridge, Georgia Planning & Zoning Commission
4602 N Henry Blvd
Stockbridge Ga 30281

RE: Letter of Intent & Variance Request for Property at 0 Wilson Ave, Parcel ID
S20-03003000

Dear Members of the Planning & Zoning Commission,

I am writing to formally submit a Letter of Intent and request a variance from the
regulations of the Unified Development Code (UDC) for the property located at 0
Wilson Ave, legally known as Parcel ID S20-03003000.

The purpose of this variance is to allow for reduction in existing lot setbacks.:

• "A reduction in the required front-yard setback from 50 feet to 25 feet for the
proposed construction of a new single-family residence."
• "A reduction in the required rear-yard setback from 40 feet to 20 feet for the
proposed construction of a new single-family residence."
• Side-yard setback no change.

Property and Project Description:
The subject property is a residential lot, S20-.3003000 parcel within the Unified
Development Code (UDC), specifically section 4.3.2. I am proposing to construct a new
single-family residence.

Justification for Variance:
I believe this request meets the standard for a variance based on the following practical
difficulties or unique circumstances associated with this specific property, as outlined in
the City/Town zoning ordinance:

1. Unique Physical Circumstances: The property possesses unique conditions not
generally found in the surrounding area, such as, an irregular lot shape,
significant topographic constraints (steep slope, rock outcropping), an existing
non-conforming structure, or unusual dimensions]. These conditions create
a practical difficulty in complying with the strict application of the UDC standards
for my intended use.
2. No Material Detriment: The requested variance will not alter the essential
character of the neighborhood. The proposed project, "will be consistent in scale,
materials, and design with adjacent properties" or "will be screened from view
and will not create noise, traffic, or privacy impacts". It will not be materially
detrimental to nearby properties or to the public welfare.
3. Preservation of Property Rights: The strict application of the UDC regulations
would result in an unnecessary hardship, depriving me of reasonable use of my
property. The variance sought is the minimum necessary to achieve a reasonable
use.
4. Consistency with UDC Intent: The variance, if granted, will allow a project that
remains consistent with the broader purposes and intent of the Unified
Development Code, which is to, "promote thoughtful development, enhance the
streetscape, or support viable business operations".

I have attached preliminary site plans, drawings, and photographs to illustrate the
existing conditions and the proposed work. I am committed to working with your staff
to ensure the project meets all other applicable codes and standards.

I respectfully request that the Planning & Zoning Commission consider this variance
request at your next available public hearing. I am available to answer any questions and
to provide additional information as needed.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Jerry Robinson

BAC Construction Inc. Owner

Attachments:

• Site Plan
• Building Elevations/Renderings (if applicable)
• Photographs of Property
• Any other supporting documents
CRUSHED STONE CONSTRUCTION EXIT
EXIT DIAGRAM

ENTRANCE ELEVATION
Ds1

Ds2
Ds3

SILT FENCE - TYPE SENSITIVE
SIDE VIEW

FRONT VIEW
POWERPOINT PRESENTATION FOR

VARIANCE CASE #VR-2026-01
Planning Commission Meeting—March 19, 2026
City Council Meeting—April 13, 2026

CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
Ryan Anderson, Director
FACTS ABOUT THE SUBJECT PROPERTY

Property Location: Parcel #S20-03003000, located on the east side of Wilson Avenue
and the north side of Wilson Street.
Property Owners: Laura Bernal Gopar & Luis A. Gopar-Carmona.
Council District: 2 (Councilmember Antwan Cloud).
Bordering Roads: Wilson Avenue to the west and Wilson Street to the south (corner
lot). (See the aerial photograph.)
Current Zoning: SR (Suburban Residential). (See the Zoning Map.)
Future Land Use Designation: Medium-Density Mixed-Use. (See the Future Land Use
Map.)
Property Conditions: The property is long and narrow, with 0.613 +/- acres, and it is
currently vacant. (See the aerial photo.)
AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH for PARCEL #S20-03003000
Showing the Property Location, Size, and Shape
BOUNDARY SURVEY
(Prepared by Scanlon Engineering Services, Inc. on 4/17/23)
ZONING MAP FOR VR-2026-01
FUTURE LAND USE MAP FOR VR-2026-01
CASE PURPOSE (Slide #1)
Applicant: Jerry Robinson of BAC Construction (the builder).

Proposed Development: New single-family detached dwelling with 2,294 total heated
square feet.

Purpose of Case: Applicant requests to reduce the required front and rear yard setbacks
in order to have sufficient land area on which to build the home.

Need for Case: The subject property is narrow and has an irregular shape.

Sign Posting—The zoning sign was posted on the subject property on March 4, 2026. (See
the aerial photo.)
POSTING OF ZONING SIGN ON THE SUBJECT PROPERTY
(View Toward the South)—March 4, 2026
CASE PURPOSE (Slide #2)
Required Setbacks—The setback requirements in the SR district are stated in Section 2.4.2 (B)
of the Stockbridge Unified Development Code (UDC). They are as follows:
~ 50 feet for the front yard setback.
~ 10 feet for the side yard setback.
~ 40 feet for the rear yard setback.

Reason for Variance Requests--Because of the irregular shape and dimensions of the lot, the
applicant has experienced difficulty in complying with the front and rear yard setbacks. The
applicant has therefore requested two variances to allow him to deviate from these setback
requirements:

Variance Request #1—To reduce the front yard setback from the required 50 feet to 25 feet.
Variance Request #2—To reduce the rear yard setback from the required 40 feet to 20 feet.

(No variance is needed for the side yards since they would meet the required 10 feet.)
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT (Slide #1)
Proposed Construction--A new single-family detached dwelling (home).
Site Location—To be built in the northern portion of the property, which is the widest.
(See the Proposed Site Plan.)
Required Dwelling Size: At least 1,500 square feet in the SR district.
Proposed Dwelling Size: 2,294 total square feet, with 1,370 heated square feet on the
first floor and 924 square feet on the second floor. (See the Proposed Site Plan.)
Required Setbacks:
~ They must be at least 50 feet in the front, 40 feet in the rear, and 10 feet on the sides.
(See the Site Plan Enlargement #1.)
~ Due to the irregular shape and size of the property, the use of these setbacks would
leave only a tiny, triangular area left to build the home on.
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT (Slide #2)
Proposed Setbacks:
~ Shown on the submitted site plan, prepared by BRC Land Services on 01/28/26. (See the
Site Plan Enlargement #1.)
~ Proposed reduction of the front and rear yard setbacks by 50 percent each.
~ Variance Request #1—Reduce the front yard setback from the required 50 feet to 25 feet.
(The new Building Line would be 25 feet, and the actual setback would be 27.31 feet.)
~ Variance Request #2—Reduce the rear yard setback from the required 40 feet to 20 feet.
(The new Building Line would be 20 feet, and the actual setback would be 21.31 feet.)
(See the Site Plan Enlargement #2.)
~ No variances are needed for the side yard setbacks, since they would be 12.97 feet, which is
more than the required 10 feet.
~ The proposed footprint of the home is shown in the shaded area.

Comparison of Required Versus Proposed Setbacks--The applicant’s proposed setbacks
would significantly enlarge the available buildable area for constructing the proposed
home. (See the Site Plan Enlargement #3.)
PROPOSED SITE PLAN—
Shows Proposed Home on Northern Portion of Site
(Prepared by BRC Land Services on 01/28/26)
SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #1--REQUIRED SETBACKS
SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #2--PROPOSED SETBACKS
SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #3—SETBACK COMPARISONS
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS (Slide #1)
Required Criteria—Section 10.1.3 of the UDC lists seven (7) criteria to be used in
analyzing variance requests. It states that a variance may be granted upon a finding that
all seven of these criteria are met.
Since both variance requests are for the reduction of setbacks rather than any other
matter, they may be addressed together within each criterion below.

A. Extraordinary and exceptional circumstances pertaining to the particular piece of
property in question exist due its size, shape, or topography that are not found on other
properties in the same zoning district;
~The subject property has an irregular shape and a very narrow depth. According to
the applicant’s survey, the property has a frontage on Wilson Avenue of 519.81 feet,
and its greatest depth of 119.81 feet is at the northern end of the property.
~ These dimensions differ significantly from those of most of the other lots along Wilson
Avenue, which have an estimated average of 110 feet of frontage and a depth of 200
feet. The southern end of the subject property is only an estimated 15 feet deep.
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS (Slide #2)
B. A literal interpretation of the provisions of this unified development code would
deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by owners of other properties
located in the same zoning district;
~ The required front yard setback is 50 feet in the SR district, and the required rear
yard setback is 40 feet.
~ That means that there must be at least 90 feet of land area, from the front (at Wilson
Avenue) to the rear, on which to build a house.
~ Since the deepest area at the northern end of the property has 119.81 feet, that
would leave only 29.81 feet, from the front to the rear, on which to build a house.
But the property tapers quickly to the south, leaving even less land area on which
to build.
~The applicant’s site plan shows that only a tiny triangular-shaped area would be left
on which to build the proposed house.
~ It would therefore not be possible to meet the setback requirements.
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS (Slide #3)
C. Granting the variance requested will not confer upon the property owner any
special privileges that are denied to other owners of property in the same zoning
district;
~ The applicant wishes to construct a single-family dwelling on the subject property,
just as most of the other properties within the surrounding neighborhood also
have single-family dwellings.
~ Without the requested variances, it would not be physically possible to construct a
dwelling.
~ Although the proposed house would have 2,294 total heated square feet, only 1,370
square feet would be located on the first floor, and the remaining 924 square feet
would be on the second floor. The applicant therefore would be reducing the size
of the first floor (the footprint of the house) in order to leave more land area for the
front and rear yard setbacks.
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS (Slide #4)
D. The variance will be consistent with the purposes and intent of this unified
development code, will be compatible with uses on neighboring properties, and will
serve the public welfare;
~ The subject property is located within the SR zoning district, which allows single-
family detached dwellings.
~ The applicant’s proposed single-family detached dwelling would be compatible with
the other single-family detached dwellings in the surrounding neighborhood. The
development of the property would therefore represent a positive addition to the
neighborhood.
~ Since a standard parking space is 20 feet long, the proposed front yard setback of 25
feet would allow any parked car on a driveway off Wilson Avenue to avoid
protruding into the street, and no sidewalk is present on the east side of Wilson
Avenue.
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS (Slide #5)
E. The extraordinary circumstances are not the result of actions of the applicant;
The applicant did not create the dimensions of the subject property, and the applicant
has reduced the size of the footprint of the proposed home in order to not require
even greater reductions in the front and rear yard setbacks.
F. The variance is the minimum relief that will allow the legal use of the land, building
or structure; and
Due to the irregular dimensions and shape of the subject property, the requested
variances appear to be the only possible relief to enable the property to be developed
with a single-family detached dwelling as an allowable use.
G. The variance is not a request to permit a use of land, buildings or structures that is
prohibited in the same zoning district.
The applicant proposes to build a type of use (a single-family detached dwelling) that
is permitted within the property’s zoning district, Suburban Residential.
STAFF CONCLUSION
As a result of the foregoing analysis, the Planning and Zoning Staff has reached the
conclusion that the applicant’s requests for front and rear yard setbacks are
reasonable and should be granted for the following reasons:

1. The applicant proposes to develop an acceptable type of use on the property.

2. The irregular shape and dimensions of the property represent a significant hardship
for developing the property, making it impossible to meet the required setbacks.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Based on the Staff Conclusion above, the Planning and Zoning Staff therefore
recommends the APPROVAL OF BOTH VARIANCE REQUESTS, with the following three
conditions:
1. Size of Dwelling—The proposed single-family detached dwelling shall have at least
1,500 total square feet of heated space in order to meet the minimum required
dwelling size within the SR district.
2. Site Plan--The proposed development shall be constructed according to a revised
site plan that is very similar to the submitted one, entitled “0 Wilson Avenue”, which
was prepared by BRC Land Services as Job No. 025-0024 on 01/28/2026 and revised
on 02/24/2026. The revised site plan shall show a driveway in an acceptable location
off Wilson Avenue, having a length that would not cause parked vehicles to protrude
into the street.

3. Dwelling Facades—The facades of the dwelling shall be constructed of materials
which comply with the requirements of the Stockbridge Unified Development Code.

TO: Stockbridge Mayor and City Council
Stockbridge Planning Commission

FROM: Linda M. Logan, Senior Planner, Planning and Zoning Division

CC: Ryan Anderson, Community Development Director

DATE: March 19, 2026 (Planning Commission Meeting) and
April 13, 2026 (City Council Meeting)

SUBJECT: Staff Report for Variance Case #VR-2026-01 for Parcel #S20-
03003000 on Wilson Avenue (Council District 2)

PURPOSE
The applicant for Variance Case #VR-2026-01, Jerry Robinson of BAC Construction, Inc.,
proposes to construct a new single-family detached dwelling on Parcel #S20-03003000
on Wilson Avenue within the City of Stockbridge. The subject property is located in Land
Lot 36 of District 12, and it has 0.613 +/- acres, according to the applicant’s submitted
survey of the property. It is not located in any subdivision. The property is vacant and it
has an elongated, tapered shape, as is shown by the aerial photograph. The property is
bounded by Wilson Avenue to the west and Wilson Street to the south. The aerial photo
and the submitted survey show the presence of a dirt driveway traversing the lower
portion of the property. The driveway provides access to a house at 130 Wilson Avenue,
which is a land-locked property.

The current zoning of the property is SR (Suburban Residential), which has the following
minimum required setbacks: 50 feet for the front yard setback, 10 feet for the side yard
setback, and 40 feet for the rear yard setback. Because of the irregular shape and
dimensions of the lot, the applicant has experienced difficulty in complying with the front
and rear yard setbacks. The applicant has therefore requested two variances:

~ Variance Request #1--Request for a variance from Section 2.4.2 (B) of the
Stockbridge Unified Development Code (UDC) to allow a reduction in the required
front-yard setback from 50 feet to 25 feet for the proposed construction of a new
single-family residence.

~ Variance Request #2--Request for a variance from Section 2.4.2.(B) to allow a
reduction in the required rear-yard setback from 40 feet to 20 feet for the proposed

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026

construction of a new single-family residence.

AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY
(PARCEL #S20-03003000 ON WILSON AVENUE)

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026

CASE FACTS TABLE

DESCRIPTIVE FACTOR FINDINGS
Proposed Development New single-family detached dwelling.
Property Location West side of Wilson Avenue
Parcel Identification Parcel S20-03003000
Parcel Acreage 0.613 +/- total acres.
Land District and Land Lot District 12, Land Lot 36.
Council District 2 (Councilmember Antwan Cloud).
Applicant Jerry Robinson of BAC Construction, Inc.
Property Owners Laura Bernal Gopar & Luis A. Gopar-
Carmona.
Existing Zoning SR (Suburban Residential).
Surrounding Zoning SR (Suburban Residential).
Future Land Use Designation Medium-Density Residential
Property Conditions Parcel shape--elongated and variable.
Surface--level and wooded.
Current Use Undeveloped, although a dirt driveway
traverses the property near the southern end
and provides access to a house at 130
Wilson Avenue, which is a landlocked
parcel.
Surrounding Land Uses ~ North—Vacant land and a church.
~ South—Several houses along Wilson
Street.
~ East—Several houses along Carrie Mae
Lane, within the Silent Avenue
Subdivision, including the house at 130
Wilson Avenue.
~ West—Several houses along Wilson
Avenue, plus a small beauty salon.
Posting of Zoning Sign March 4, 2026.

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026

CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE 2026 ZONING MAP
LEGEND:
Yellow—SR (Suburban Residential).
Pink—C1 (Neighborhood Commercial).
Black Star—Subject Property.

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026

CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE 2026 FUTURE LAND USE MAP
LEGEND:
Light Orange—Medium-Density Residential
Lilac—Downtown District
Light Blue—Public/Institutional
Black Star—Subject Property.

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026

BOUNDARY SURVEY
(Prepared by Scanlon Engineering Services, Inc. on 4/17/23)

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

The applicant proposes to build a new single-family detached dwelling on the subject
property, which would be a permitted use within the SR (Single-Family Residential) zoning
district. The new home would have 2,294 total heated square feet, including 1,370 square
feet on the first floor and the remaining 924 square feet on the second floor. The home
would be situated on the northern portion of the property, which has the largest area.

Required Setbacks. In the SR district, the required setbacks are 50 feet for the front yard
setback (from Wilson Avenue), 10 feet for the side yard setbacks, and 40 feet for the rear
yard setback. The applicant’s proposed site plan on the next page shows these required
setbacks and the first-floor footprint of the proposed home. The locations of the required
setbacks would leave only a tiny, triangular-shaped area on which to build the home. The
front and rear yard setbacks would both be substantially exceeded. This is shown by Site
Plan Enlargement #1 on the following page, which shows the required setbacks.

Proposed Setbacks. The applicant submitted a site plan, which was prepared by BRC
Land Services on 01/28/26. It shows that, in order to have sufficient land area on which to
build the proposed home, the applicant has proposed reducing the front and rear yard
setbacks by 50 percent each. That is, the front yard setback would be reduced from the
required 50 feet to 25 feet (the subject of Variance Request #1) and the rear yard setback
would be reduced from the required 40 feet to 20 feet (the subject of Variance Request #2).
Site Plan Enlargement #2 depicts these variance requests. The proposed footprint of the
home is shown in the shaded area. The proposed new Building Lines of 25 feet and 20
feet, respectively, are shown, and the actual setbacks would be 27.31 feet in the front yard
and 21.31 feet in the rear yard. The required 10-front side yard setbacks would be met;
thus, no variance would be needed for the side yard setbacks. The side yard setback on
the northern side of the home would actually be 12.97 feet.

Comparison of Required Versus Proposed Setbacks. Site Plan Enlargement #3 shows
both the required and the proposed setbacks for the front and rear yards. The applicant’s
proposed setbacks would significantly enlarge the available buildable area for constructing
the proposed home.

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026

PROPOSED SITE PLAN—
Shows Location of Proposed Home
On the Northern Portion of the Property
(Prepared by BRC Land Services on 01/28/26)

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026

SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #1—
SHOWS THE REQUIRED SETBACKS
Required Setbacks:
~ 50 feet in the front
~ 10 feet on the sides
~ 40 feet in the rear

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026
10

SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #2—
SHOWS THE PROPOSED SETBACKS
Proposed Setbacks:
~ 25 feet in the front (Variance Request #1)
~ 10 feet on the sides (no variance)
~ 20 feet in the rear (Variance Request #2)

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026
11

SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #3—
SHOWS BOTH THE REQUIRED SETBACKS
AND THE PROPOSED SETBACKS

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026
12

ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS

The applicant has submitted a Variance application to request two variances, as are
listed below, for the development of a proposed single-family dwelling on Parcel #S20-
03003000 on Wilson Avenue. In both variance requests, the applicant is seeking
permission to forego compliance with a particular requirement within the Unified
Development Code (UDC) regulations. Each variance request has been analyzed by the
Planning and Zoning Staff and is discussed below.

1. Variance Request #1—Reduce the front yard setback from the required 50 feet to 25
feet.
2. Variance Request #2—Reduce the rear yard setback from the required 40 feet to 20
feet.

10.1.3 - Criteria to be considered for deciding variances.

A variance may be granted only upon a finding by the mayor and city council that all the
following conditions are met:

A. Extraordinary and exceptional circumstances pertaining to the particular piece of property
in question exist due its size, shape, or topography that are not found on other properties
in the same zoning district;

B. A literal interpretation of the provisions of this unified development code would deprive the
applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by owners of other properties located in the same
zoning district;

C. Granting the variance requested will not confer upon the property owner any special
privileges that are denied to other owners of property in the same zoning district;

D. The variance will be consistent with the purposes and intent of this unified development
code, will be compatible with uses on neighboring properties, and will serve the public
welfare;

E. The extraordinary circumstances are not the result of actions of the applicant;

F. The variance is the minimum relief that will allow the legal use of the land, building or
structure; and

G. The variance is not a request to permit a use of land, buildings or structures that is
prohibited in the same zoning district.

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026
13

Analysis of Variance Criteria

Since both variance requests are for the reduction of setbacks rather than any other
matter, they may be addressed together within each criterion below.

A. Extraordinary and exceptional circumstances pertaining to the particular piece
of property in question exist due its size, shape, or topography that are not
found on other properties in the same zoning district;

The subject property has an irregular shape and a very narrow depth. According to
the applicant’s submitted survey, the subject property has a frontage on Wilson
Avenue of 519.81 feet, and its greatest depth of 119.81 feet is at the northern end
of the property. These dimensions differ significantly from those of most of the other
lots along Wilson Avenue, which have an estimated average of 110 feet of frontage
and a depth of 200 feet, according to the aerial photographs from the Henry County
Tax Assessors’ website. The southern end of the subject property is only an
estimated 15 feet deep.

B. A literal interpretation of the provisions of this unified development code would
deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by owners of other
properties located in the same zoning district;

The required front yard setback is 50 feet in the SR district, and the required rear
yard setback is 40 feet. That means that there must be at least 90 feet of land area,
from the front (at Wilson Avenue) to the rear, on which to build a house. Since the
deepest area at the northern end of the property has 119.81 feet, that would leave
only 29.81 feet, from the front to the rear, on which to build a house. But the property
tapers quickly to the south, leaving even less land area on which to build. The
applicant’s site plan showing the required setbacks indicates that only a tiny
triangular-shaped area would be left on which to build the proposed house. It would
therefore not be possible to meet the setback requirements.

C. Granting the variance requested will not confer upon the property owner any
special privileges that are denied to other owners of property in the same
zoning district;

The applicant wishes to construct a single-family dwelling on the subject property,
just as most of the other properties within the surrounding neighborhood also have
single-family dwellings. Without the requested variances, it would not be physically
possible to construct a dwelling. Although the proposed house would have 2,294
total heated square feet, only 1,370 square feet would be located on the first floor, and
the remaining 924 square feet would be on the second floor. The applicant therefore
would be reducing the size of the first floor (the footprint of the house) in order to leave
more land area for the front and rear yard setbacks.

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026
14

D. The variance will be consistent with the purposes and intent of this unified
development code, will be compatible with uses on neighboring properties,
and will serve the public welfare;

The subject property is located within the SR zoning district, which allows single-
family detached dwellings. The applicant’s proposed single-family detached dwelling
would be compatible with the other single-family detached dwellings in the
surrounding neighborhood. The development of the property would therefore
represent a positive addition to the neighborhood. Further, since a standard parking
space is 20 feet long, the proposed front yard setback of 25 feet would allow any
parked car on a driveway off Wilson Avenue to avoid protruding into the street, and
no sidewalk is present on the east side of Wilson Avenue.

E. The extraordinary circumstances are not the result of actions of the applicant;

The applicant did not create the dimensions of the subject property, and the applicant
has reduced the size of the footprint of the proposed home in order to not require
even greater reductions in the front and rear yard setbacks.

F. The variance is the minimum relief that will allow the legal use of the land,
building or structure; and

Due to the irregular dimensions and shape of the subject property, the requested
variances appear to be the only possible relief to enable the property to be developed
with a single-family detached dwelling as an allowable use.

G. The variance is not a request to permit a use of land, buildings or structures
that is prohibited in the same zoning district.

The applicant proposes to build a type of use (a single-family detached dwelling) that
is permitted within the property’s zoning district, Suburban Residential.

STAFF CONCLUSION

As a result of the foregoing analysis, the Planning and Zoning Staff has reached the
conclusion that the applicant’s requests for front and rear yard setbacks are reasonable
and should be granted for the following reasons:

1. The applicant proposes to develop an acceptable type of use on the property.

2. The irregular shape and dimensions of the property represent a significant hardship for
developing the property, making it impossible to meet the required setbacks/

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026
15

VI. STAFF RECOMMENDATION

Based on the Staff Conclusion above, the Planning and Zoning Staff therefore
recommends the APPROVAL OF BOTH VARIANCE REQUESTS, with the following
three conditions:

1. Size of Dwelling—The proposed single-family detached dwelling shall have at least
1,500 total square feet of heated space in order to meet the minimum required dwelling
size within the SR district.

2. Site Plan--The proposed development shall be constructed according to a revised site
plan that is very similar to the submitted one, entitled “0 Wilson Avenue”, which was
prepared by BRC Land Services as Job No. 025-0024 on 01/28/2026 and revised on
02/24/2026. The revised site plan shall show a driveway in an acceptable location off
Wilson Avenue, having a length that would not cause parked vehicles to protrude into
the street.

3. Dwelling Facades—The facades of the dwelling shall be constructed of materials
which comply with the requirements of the Stockbridge Unified Development Code.

City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026
APRIL 13, 2026

Ryan Anderson

Community Development

QUITCLAIM DISPOSAL OF REMNANT TRACT AT 2125 JODECO ROAD. Council District 5. Council consideration of
the quitclaim disposal of a portion of the remnant tract at 2125 Jodeco Road, which is owned by the City, to allow the
tract to be used by Tidal Wave Auto Spa in the development of its property. O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6(g) allows governments
to convey a small strip of land to an abutting property owner without an auction or bidding process. Section 3.30.170(C)
of Municode requires City Council to first declare the strip to be “unserviceable.”

The remnant tract protrudes from the south side of Jodeco Road into the property. It was created by Georgia DOT as
part of the needed right-of-way for the road. Georgia DOT then quitclaimed the remnant tract to the City, who was to
maintain the remnant tract for drainage purposes. The drainage system has been redirected so that the City now only
needs to keep about half of the remnant tract. The remaining portion is needed by Tidal Wave Auto Spa in the
development and operation of its business.

$0.00
QUITCLAIM DISPOSAL OF REMNANT TRACT AT 2125 JODECO ROAD.

APPROVAL.
Henry County, GA

Overview

Legend
Parcels
Roads

114 ft

Parcel ID 053-01018015 Class Commercial Owner JODECO 158 LLC Land $603,700
Property 2125 JODECO Acreage 0.77 Address 120 S ZACK HINTON Value:
Address RD PARKWAY Building $0 Last 2 Sales
District City/Stockbridge MCDONOUGH, GA Value: Date Price Reason Qual
30253 Misc $0 n/a $ n/a n/a
Value: n/a $ n/a n/a
Total $603,700
Value:

Parcel lines depicted on the maps do not re ect a true and exact representation of property boundaries and should not be relied upon for said purpose. Property boundary lines
are depicted on recorded plats available at the Henry County courthouse or can be determined by employing the services of a licensed surveyor.

Date created: 3/31/2026
Last Data Uploaded: 3/31/2026 6:49:28 PM

Developed by
Exhibit B
Plats Referenced

Plats:

SGR/81697982.2
SGR/81697982.2
SGR/81697982.2
Exhibit C
Deeds Referenced

City’s QCD – Deed Book 19250, Page 101:

City’s QCD – Deed Book 19250, Page 103:

SGR/81697982.2
LEGEND THE PURPOSE OF THIS PLAT IS TO SHOW THE AREA OF
VACATED RIGHT OF WAY TO BE COMBINED WITH TRACT 11

ROW

VICINITY MAP IPF
CON. MON. IPF
CON. MON. (RI J
GH ODE
IPF T O CO
CAPPED REBAR
F W RO
AY AD
OWNER/DEVELOPER STAMPED (FDC 00995) VA
RIE
27. S
63'(
SITE
38. (C)
89' S6
C) 6°2
109 1'2
1" E
IPS 109 98'(C
ZONING (C) E .79 )
83'
29. 9'27" N1 (R)
0°3 0
N7 9°2

IPS

'33
IPS

S 19
'32
°09
ROW

ABBREVIATIONS
IPF
P.O.C. 5/8" REBAR
P.O.B.
IPF
(C) 5/8" REBAR

NOTES

TRACT 11A
34,709 Sq. Feet ±
0.80 Acres ±

N 01°44'29" E 324.33'(C&R)

8'03"
283.92
S 09°2 '(C&R

LOT RESURVEY PLAT
TIDAL WAVE'S
ADDITION TO STOCKBRIDGE
PLAT NO. 1
BEING A RESURVEY OF TACT 11 OF THE LOT DIVISION FOR
JODECO ROAD AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 65, PAGE 22
AND A PORTION OF RIGHT OF WAY ALL BEING SITUATED IN
N 89°26'57" W

SET SET 81.55'(C&R) SET
LAND LOT 78 OF THE 6TH DISTRICT OF THE CITY OF
NAIL NAIL
PRIVATE ROAD
NAIL STOCKBRIDGE IN HENRY COUNTY, GEORGIA

A=13.96'
R=150.00'
D=5°19'50" GONZALEZ - STRENGTH & ASSOCIATES, INC.
B=S 87°53'08" W CIVIL ENGINEERING, LAND SURVEYING, PLANNING, TRAFFIC & TRANSPORTATION
C=13.95' 1550 WOODS OF RIVERCHASE DRIVE - SUITE 200
(R) HOOVER, ALABAMA 35244
R=150.00'
PHONE: (205) 942-2486
A=13.95' FAX: (205) 942-3033 an company
LSF001440
B=S 87°20'05" W
CH=13.95'
DEED REFERENCES c Copyright 2025 www.Gonzalez-Strength.com

SURVEY REFERENCES
PROPOSED QUITCLAIM DISPOSAL
OF REMNANT TRACT
ADJACENT TO PROPERTY AT
2125 JODECO ROAD
Council District 5

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 13, 2026

Community Development Department
Ryan Anderson, Director
PROPOSED TRANSFER OF REMNANT TRACT
ADJACENT TO PROPERTY AT 2125 JODECO ROAD
EXISTING SITUATION:
1. The City of Stockbridge owns a remnant tract of land along Jodeco Road, adjacent
to the property at 2125 Jodeco Road, which is part of the Bridges at Jodeco
mixed-use development.
2. A portion of the remnant tract is no longer needed by the City.
3. Tidal Wave Auto Spa wishes to purchase and develop the property at 2125 Jodeco
Road.
4. Due to the protrusion of the remnant tract into the property at 2125 Jodeco Road,
Tidal Wave Auto Spa has found difficulty in preparing a reasonable site plan that
would enable it to operate its business.

PROPOSAL—The proposal that is being considered is the transfer of a portion of the
remnant tract to Tidal Wave Auto Spa via quitclaim deed, if all legal requirements are
met and a satisfactory agreement can be reached.
VICINITY MAP FOR 2125 JODECO ROAD
AERIAL PHOTO FOR 2125 JODECO ROAD
DESCRIPTION OF REMNANT TRACT
ADJACENT TO PROPERTY AT 2125 JODECO ROAD
LOCATION--The remnant tract protrudes from the south side of Jodeco Road and juts
into the property at 2125 Jodeco Road.

SIZE—0.77 acres.

CREATION--It was created by Georgia DOT as part of the needed right-of-way for the
I-75 at Jodeco Road intersection improvements.

CITY OWNERSHIP--Georgia DOT then quitclaimed the remnant tract via deed to the
City of Stockbridge on February 7, 2023 via a quitclaim deed and maintenance
agreement. The City was to maintain the tract for drainage purposes. The City did
not pay anything to acquire this tract.

NO LONGER NEEDED--But the drainage system has been redirected, so the City now
only needs to keep about half of the remnant tract.
GEORGIA D.O.T. RIGHT-OF-WAY MAP
SHOWING REMNANT TRACT (5/19/2008)
REMNANT TRACT SHOWING DRAINAGE EASEMENT
CITY ABANDONMENT OF DRAINAGE EASEMENT

On a plat for the Bridges of Jodeco, dated 01/11/24, a note stated that the City of
Stockbridge removed from Tract 11 (the subject property) the easement that was
conveyed by Georgia DOT via a quitclaim deed and maintenance agreement from
February 7, 2023.

Further, the City assumed no responsibility for the overflow or erosion of natural or
artificial drains beyond the extent of the street right-of-way.
IDENTIFICATION OF THE PORTION
OF THE REMNANT TRACT TO BE TRANSFERRED
PROPOSED LOT RESURVEY PLAT—Tidal Wave Auto Spa has provided a “Lot
Resurvey Plat” (prepared by Gonzalez—Strength & Associates, Inc., March 2026, as
Job #25-777) showing the proposed replat of Tract 11 (which was previously recorded
in Plat Book 65, Page 22, along with a portion of road right-of-way). The replat shows
the specific portion of the remnant tract that is proposed for transfer.

LEGAL DESCRIPTION—Needs to be prepared to identify the boundaries of the
specific portion of the remnant tract to be transferred.
DIAGRAM OF REMNANT TRACT—FROM “LOT SURVEY REPLAT”
Hatched Area—Proposed Portion to be Quitclaimed (About Half of Tract)
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR THE PROPOSED LAND TRANSFER

PERMISSION BY STATE LAW–Section O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6(g) allows governments to
convey a small strip of land to an abutting property owner without bids or auctions of
“narrow strips of land, so shaped or so small as to be incapable of being used
independently” where the “conveyances facilitate the enjoyment of the highest and
best use of the abutting owner's property”. Transfers of land need to follow the local
ordinance.

PERMISSION AND REQUIRED ACTION BY MUNICODE--Section 3.30.170(C) of the
Stockbridge Municode requires City Council to first declare the strip to be
“unserviceable.” Disposition of the property may be made at a public or private sale.
NEEDED FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS
Before proceeding with the proposed land transfer, the City needs to find and conclude
the following:

1. That the City acquired the remnant tract from Georgia DOT via a quitclaim deed,
at no cost to the City.
2. That the remnant tract to be transferred is so small and so shaped as to be
incapable of being used independently, thereby meeting that state requirement
(O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6(g)).
3. That the proposed conveyance of a portion of the remnant tract would facilitate the
enjoyment of the highest and best use of the abutting owner's property, thereby
meeting that state requirement (O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6(g)).
4. That the remnant tract is unserviceable, and that the proposed transfer of a portion
of it to Tidal Wave Auto Spa would be in the City’s best interest, thereby meeting the
City’s Municode requirement (Section 3.30.170(C)).
5. That the boundaries of the specific portion of the remnant tract to be transferred
are acceptable.
TO PROCEED WITH THE PROPOSED LAND TRANSFER
If the City decides to proceed with the proposed land transfer of the remnant tract to
Tidal Wave Auto Spa, it may do so after the following actions have been taken:

1. After all of the required findings and conclusions that were mentioned in the
previous slide have been made; and

2. After the proposed quitclaim deed from Tidal Wave Auto Spa has been found to be
satisfactory, including the legal description, no payment being due from the City,
and an agreement that legal expenses for the review of the proposed quitclaim
deed would be paid by Tidal Wave Auto Spa.
ADDITIONAL NEEDED ACTIONS
BY TIDAL WAVE AUTO SPA
After the proposed land transfer has been accomplished between the City and Tidal
Wave Auto Spa, and after Tidal Wave Auto Spa has purchased the property at 2125
Jodeco Road, Tidal Wave Auto Spa will need to take the following actions:

REPLAT APPLICATION—Tidal Wave Auto Spa will need to submit a replat application
to the Community Development Department for its property at 2125 Jodeco Road to
change the boundaries of the property to include the newly-acquired portion of the
remnant tract from the City.

RECORDING OF NEW PLAT—After City Staff have approved the replat application,
Tidal Wave Auto Spa will need to have the plat recorded and submit a copy of the
recorded plat to the Permitting Office before a land disturbance permit (LDP) may be
issued for the development of the property.
AFTER RECORDING RETURN TO:
Eugene D. Bryant, Esq.
Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP
1105 W. Peachtree St. NE, Suite 1000
Atlanta, Georgia 30309

Tax Parcel No.: Portion of ROW
adjacent to 53-01018015
(Above Space for Recorder’s use only)

QUITCLAIM DEED

THIS INDENTURE, made this ____ day of _________, 2026, between the CITY OF
STOCKBRIDGE, a municipal corporation, chartered pursuant to the laws of the State of Georgia
(hereinafter collectively called “Grantor”), and SHJ DEVELOPMENT LLC, a Delaware limited liability
company (hereinafter called “Grantee”) (the words “Grantor” and “Grantee” to include their respective
heirs, successors and assigns where the context requires or permits).

WITNESSETH

That Grantor, for and in consideration of the sum of Ten and No/100 ($10.00) Dollars in hand paid
at and before the sealing and delivery of these presents, and other good and valuable consideration, the
receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby bargain, sell, remise, convey,
release and forever quitclaim unto Grantee and Grantee’s successors and assigns, all the right, title, interest,
claim or demand which Grantor has or may have had in and to that certain land situated in Henry County,
Georgia (the “Property”), as more particularly described on Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated
herein by this reference.

TOGETHER with all the tenements, hereditaments and appurtenances thereto belonging or in
anywise appertaining.

TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the Property to Grantee and Grantee’s successors and assigns, so that
neither Grantor, nor any other person or persons claiming under Grantor, shall at any time, by any means
or ways, have, claim or demand any right, title or interest to the Property, its appurtenances or any rights
thereof.

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

SGR/81877492.1
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Grantor has caused this Quitclaim Deed to be executed under seal the
day and year first above written.

Signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of: GRANTOR:

CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE
Print Name:_______________________
Unofficial Witness By: (Seal)
Name: ___________________________
_________________________________ Title: ____________________________
Notary Public
My Commission Expires:____________
Attest: ___________________________(Seal)
Name: ___________________________
Title: ____________________________
[NOTARIAL SEAL]

SGR/81877492.1
EXHIBIT A

LEGAL DESCRIPTION

A portion of Right of Way of Jodeco Road as being situated in Land Lot 78 of the 6th District in the Town
of Stockbridge, Henry County, Georgia and being more particularly described as follows:

Commence at a point marking the Northeast corner of Tract 11 as shown on Lot Division for Jodeco Road
Lot 11 as recorded in Plat Book 65, Page 222 in the Office of the Clerk of the Superior Court and also lying
on the Southerly Right of Way of Jodeco Road, thence run North 66 degrees 21 minutes 21 seconds West
along the Southerly Right of Way of said Jodeco Road for a distance of 109.98 feet to a found concrete
monument; thence run South 19 degrees 20 minutes 33 seconds East along said Southerly Right of Way for
a distance of 27.89 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING; thence continue along the last described course
and also said Right of Way for a distance of 43.62 feet a found 5/8 inch rebar; thence run South 70 degrees
53 minutes 03 seconds West along said Southerly Right of Way for a distance of 29.97 feet to a found 5/8
inch rebar; thence run North 19 degrees 09 minutes 32 seconds West along said Southerly Right of Way for
a distance of 43.50 feet to a point; thence leaving said Right of Way, run North 70 degrees 39 minutes 27
seconds East for a distance of 29.82 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Said easement contains 1,302
square feet or 0.03 acres more or less.

SGR/81877492.1
APRIL 13, 2026

Ryan Anderson

Community Development

TEXT AMENDMENT CASE #TX-2026-02. Consideration of a text amendment to the Unified Development Code (UDC)
to establish a process for requesting, initiating, approving, and carrying out the renaming of streets within the
Stockbridge City Limits.

The UDC does not currently contain a defined pathway for residents, property owners, or the City to petition for a street
name change, nor does it outline review criteria or agency responsibilities. Establishing a clear, standardized process
would help to ensure the transparency, consistency, and coordination of this process across departments.

$0.00
TEXT AMENDMENT CASE #TX-2026-02.

APPROVAL
STATE OF GEORGIA
HENRY COUNTY
CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE, GEORGIA

ORDINANCE NO. _________

AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE,
GEORGIA, TO AMEND THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE,
GEORGIA, TITLE 5 (PUBLIC WORKS), CHAPTER 5.04, ARTICLE I, BY ESTABLISHING
SECTION 5.04.170, ENTITLED “STREET AND PUBLIC FACILITY RENAMING
PROCEDURES”;TO PROVIDE A UNIFORM PROCESS FOR THE NAMING AND RENAMING
OF PUBLIC STREETS, PARKS, BUILDINGS, AND OTHER PUBLIC FACILITIES; TO
INCORPORATE AND CROSS-REFERENCE THE CITY FACILITIES, PARKS, AND STREETS
NAMING POLICY AND SECTION 16.10 OF THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE; TO
ESTABLISH PETITION THRESHOLDS, NOTICE AND PUBLIC HEARING REQUIREMENTS,
REVIEW STANDARDS, AND IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURES; AND FOR OTHER
LAWFUL PURPOSES.

WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Stockbridge desires to facilitate responsible
community growth and provide housing and care options that meet the needs of residents;
and

WHEREAS, Article IX, Section II, Paragraph IV of the Georgia Constitution empowers the
governing authority of each county and of each municipality to adopt plans and exercise
the power of zoning; and

WHEREAS, the City of Stockbridge is a municipal corporation duly organized and existing
under the laws of the State of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, the City of Stockbridge is a municipal corporation organized and existing under
the laws of the State of Georgia and is authorized by its Charter and general law to regulate
and control the naming and renaming of public streets, rights-of-way, and City-owned or
City-maintained facilities within its corporate limits; and

WHEREAS, the naming and renaming of public streets and facilities affect residents,
property owners, businesses, emergency services, navigation, and the historical and civic
identity of the City; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council find that a transparent, deliberate, and uniform
legislative process is necessary to ensure consistency, public participation, and protection
of the public interest;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
STOCKBRIDGE, GEORGIA, AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. AMENDMENT TO THE CODE OF ORDINANCES.

The Code of Ordinances of the City of Stockbridge, Georgia, Title 5 (Public Works), Chapter
5.04, Article I, is hereby amended by establishing a new Section 5.04.170, entitled “Street
and Public Facility Renaming Procedures,” to read as follows:

Sec. 5.04.170. – Street and Public Facility Renaming Procedures.

(a) Purpose and Intent.

The purpose of this section is to establish a clear, equitable, and uniform process for the
naming and renaming of public streets, parks, buildings, and other public facilities,
recognizing the long-term impacts such actions have on the community, public safety, and
historical preservation.

(b) Applicability.

1. This section applies to:
a. All publicly dedicated streets, roads, alleys, and rights-of-way accepted for
maintenance by the City; and
b. All parks, buildings, structures, complexes, and facilities owned, operated, or
maintained by the City of Stockbridge.

2. No street or public facility shall be named or renamed except by ordinance adopted
by the Mayor and City Council in accordance with this section.

(c) Relationship to Unified Development Code Section 16.10 and City Naming Policy.

1. Unified Development Code Coordination.
Street naming standards applicable to new streets and subdivisions, including
spelling conventions, suffixes, duplication limitations, and sign requirements, shall
be governed by Section 16.10 (Street Names and Sign Requirements) of the Unified
Development Code.

2. Distinction of Authority.
a. Section 16.10 shall apply to the initial naming of streets during subdivision and
development review.
b. This Section 5.04.170 shall apply exclusively to the renaming of existing streets
and public facilities following dedication, acceptance, or public use.
3. Consistency Requirement.
Any proposed street renaming under this section shall comply with the technical
and public safety standards of Section 16.10, including avoidance of duplication,
emergency response compatibility, and sign requirements.

4. City Facilities, Parks, and Streets Naming Policy.
a. The City Facilities, Parks, and Streets Naming Policy, as adopted and amended by
the Mayor and City Council, is hereby incorporated by reference for guidance and
substantive review criteria.
b. In the event of a conflict between this section and the policy, this Code of
Ordinances shall control.

(d) Initiation of Requests.

A proposal to rename a street or public facility may be initiated by:

1. The Mayor;

2. Any member of the City Council;

3. The City Manager or designee; or

4. A citizen initiated petition meeting the requirements of this section.

(e) Citizen Initiated Street Renaming — Petition Threshold.

1. Any citizen-initiated request to rename an existing street or portion thereof shall
require a petition signed by not less than seventy-five percent (75%) of the property
owners whose property abuts the affected street segment, as reflected in the most
recent Henry County tax digest.

2. The petition shall include: a. The existing street name and proposed new name;
b. A map identifying the affected street segment;
c. Printed names, property addresses, and signatures of qualifying property owners;
d. A written statement explaining the basis for the request.

3. Petitions failing to meet the required threshold shall not proceed to public hearing.

(f) Public Facility, Park, and Building Renaming.

1. Proposals to rename public facilities may be initiated by City Council or by written
request submitted to the City Manager.
2. No fixed numerical petition threshold shall apply; however, the Mayor and City
Council shall determine whether sufficient public interest and community support
exist to warrant consideration.

3. Facilities named by deed restriction shall not be eligible for renaming.

(g) Prohibitions and Limitations.

1. No street or public facility shall be named or renamed for private benefit or
commercial promotion.

2. No street or public facility shall be named after:

a. A seated elected or appointed official; or
b. An individual who has been deceased for less than one (1) year, unless waived by
a supermajority vote of the City Council.

3. Street names that create duplication, confusion, or public safety concerns shall not
be approved.

(h) Notice and Public Hearing.

1. At least one (1) public hearing shall be conducted prior to adoption of any ordinance
renaming a street or public facility.

2. Notice shall be provided by mailed, published, and posted notice in accordance
with City requirements and applicable law.

(i) Findings and Decision.

In adopting any ordinance renaming a street, the Mayor and City Council shall make a
finding that:

The Mayor and City Council find that the proposed street renaming complies with Section
5.04.170 of the Code of Ordinances and the technical naming and sign standards of
Section 16.10 of the Unified Development Code.

The Mayor and City Council may approve, deny, or modify any proposed renaming by
ordinance.

(j) Appeal of Decision.

1. Right to Appeal.
Any person who is aggrieved by a final decision of the Mayor and City Council
approving or denying a request to rename a street or public facility under this
section may appeal such decision pursuant to this subsection.
2. Appeal Authority.
Because the approval or denial of a street or public facility renaming is a legislative
act adopted by ordinance, appeals shall be limited to procedural and legal
compliance and shall be heard exclusively by the Mayor and City Council.

3. Filing of Appeal.
An appeal shall be filed in writing with the City Clerk no later than thirty (30)
calendar days following adoption of the renaming ordinance. The appeal shall
include:

a. The name and address of the appellant;
b. Identification of the ordinance being appealed;
c. A statement of the specific grounds for appeal; and
d. Any supporting documentation.

4. Scope of Review.
The appeal shall be limited to determining whether:

a. The procedures set forth in this section were properly followed;
b. Required notice and public hearing requirements were met; and
c. The decision was adopted in compliance with applicable provisions of the Code
of Ordinances and state law.

5. Hearing on Appeal.
The Mayor and City Council shall consider the appeal at a duly noticed public
meeting. No new evidence shall be accepted unless the Mayor and City Council
determine that such evidence was unavailable at the time of the original public
hearing.

6. Decision on Appeal.
Following consideration of the appeal, the Mayor and City Council may:

a. Affirm the original decision;
b. Modify the original decision; or
c. Remand the matter for additional consideration consistent with this section.

The decision of the Mayor and City Council on appeal shall be final.

7. Judicial Review.
Nothing herein shall be construed to limit any right to seek judicial review as
provided by Georgia law.
(k) Implementation.

1. The effective date shall be specified in the adopting ordinance.

2. The City Manager or designee shall coordinate implementation with emergency
services, postal authorities, utilities, and other affected agencies.

3. A reasonable transition period recognizing both old and new names may be
authorized.

SECTION 2. Severability. To the extent any portion of this Ordinance is declared to be
invalid, unenforceable, or non-binding, that shall not affect the remaining portions of this
Ordinance.

SECTION 3. Repeal of Conflicting Provisions. All City Ordinances inconsistent
with this Ordinances shall be repealed.

SECTION 4. Attorney Authorization. The City Attorney, backed by the City's charter and
with the explicit endorsement of the City Council, is authorized to make necessary
amendments to contracts, ordinances, resolutions, and documents to align them with the
intent of the City Council and ensure compliance with all pertinent city laws and
regulations.

SECTION 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its
adoption by the City Council of the City of Stockbridge as provided in the City Charter.

SO ORDAINED,

this _____ day of ____________________, 2026.

CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE, GEORGIA

Jayden Williams, Mayor

ATTEST:

Cassandra Lester, Interim City Clerk

APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Quinton Washington, City Attorney
APRIL 13, 2026

Ryan Anderson

Community Development

(First Reading) SOUTH BERRY STREET RENAMING. Council consideration of a resolution to rename South Berry Street to
"Alphonso Thomas Street" to honor the longtime public servant's decades of service to the Stockbridge community. This
action supports the City's continued efforts to recognize leaders who have made significant historical and civic
contributions to the City.

In 2015, former Councilmember Alphonso Thomas spearheaded the initiative to rename the former North Berry Street and
the former Railroad Street as M. L. King, Sr. Heritage Trail. Alphonso Thomas dedicated more than 35 years to public service
in Stockbridge, serving as a Council member, as Mayor Pro Tem, as a civic leader, and a as a key figure in preserving the
City's African-American history and its connection to the King family.

SIGNED BY: SHAWN EDMONDSON

SIGNED BY: FRANK S. MILAZI
$0.00

SIGNED BY: QUINTON WASHINGTON
SOUTH BERRY STREET RENAMING.

APPROVAL.

SIGNED BY: R. RYAN ANDERSON
Proposed Renaming of South Berry Street
to Alphonso Thomas Street

Ryan Anderson, MPPA, CPM
Director, Community Development
Stockbridge Council Session Meeting
April 13, 2026
Background
• The consideration of Berry Street for renaming is grounded in prior City initiatives and long-
standing planning decisions focused on cultural recognition and community identity. Street
naming serves not only a functional purpose but also as a way to preserve and reflect the
City’s historical and cultural legacy within the public realm.
• In 2015, the City of Stockbridge initiated the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail as part of
a broader effort to recognize its identity as the ancestral home of the King family. This
initiative positioned cultural recognition as a key component of the City’s downtown
revitalization and placemaking strategy.
• The initiative formally began in January 2015 with the creation of a study committee tasked
with identifying an appropriate corridor for commemorative naming. The committee
evaluated visibility, accessibility, and potential impacts to ensure the selected corridor
would balance both symbolic and practical considerations.
• Under the leadership of Mayor Pro Tem Alphonso Thomas, the initiative advanced through
a series of meetings and public engagement efforts. His leadership was instrumental in
guiding the process from initial concept to a formally adopted City initiative.
• Following this evaluation, Berry Street—along with North Berry Street and Railroad
Street—was selected due to its central location within downtown, its visibility, and its
relatively minimal impact on surrounding properties.
• The corridor was formally designated as part of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail in September
2015, establishing Berry Street as a recognized route for cultural and historical
commemoration within the City.
• This prior designation demonstrates that Berry Street has already been evaluated and
determined to be an appropriate location for commemorative recognition, supporting its
continued use for honoring individuals such as Councilman Alphonso Thomas.
PURPOSE OF
REQUEST
• The City of Stockbridge is requesting approval of a resolution on first
reading to rename Berry Street to Alphonso Thomas Street in honor of
Councilman Alphonso Thomas and his decades of dedicated public
service. This action reflects the City’s continued commitment to
recognizing individuals who have made significant civic and historical
contributions.
• Street renaming is a formal legislative action that allows municipalities
to embed recognition directly into the physical and cultural fabric of the
community. As a permanent feature of the public right-of-way, a street
name reflects the City’s history, values, and collective identity.
• The proposal builds upon the established precedent of Berry Street as
a commemorative corridor through its designation as part of the Martin
Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail, continuing the City’s efforts to align its
physical environment with its historical narrative.
• This request is also presented in recognition of Councilman Thomas’s
passing in December 2025. His decades of service, including his
leadership as Mayor Pro Tem and his role in advancing key
community initiatives, warrant formal and lasting recognition.
• The renaming of Berry Street represents not only an act of
commemoration, but also an opportunity to reinforce the City’s broader
vision of preserving its heritage, honoring its leaders, and
strengthening a sense of place within the downtown area.
LOCATION AND CONTEXT
• Berry Street is located within the historic downtown area of the City of Stockbridge and
functions as a local connector between 2nd Street and Wilson Avenue, with a direct
connection to the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail.
• The corridor is surrounded by established residential neighborhoods and institutional uses,
including Trinity United Methodist Church, Floyd Chapel Baptist Church, Stockbridge
Elementary School, and the future Henry County STEM High School (opening August 2027).
• Land use along the corridor is predominantly low-density residential with limited commercial
activity, supporting its role as a neighborhood-scale street rather than a major commercial or
arterial corridor.
• Berry Street operates as a low-volume corridor that provides local access while maintaining a
manageable traffic environment, which reduces complexity and supports ease of
implementation for renaming.
• Its central location, visibility, and proximity to key community institutions reinforce its suitability
as a corridor for commemorative naming within the City’s downtown area.
• Berry Street has established historical and planning significance within
the City of Stockbridge and has previously been designated as part of
the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail, reinforcing its role as a visible and
appropriate corridor for commemorative recognition.
• Its location within the Main Street Program area and the downtown core
supports its use as a commemorative corridor, allowing recognition
efforts to be integrated into a highly visible and community-centered
environment.
• A parcel-level analysis identified five parcels along the corridor, of which
only two—144 and 146 South Berry Street—would require address
updates, including changes to mailing, utility, and emergency service
records.

ANALYSIS • The limited number of impacted properties significantly reduces
administrative burden, and implementation can be efficiently managed
through coordination with relevant agencies.
• The remaining parcels are undeveloped and would be assigned
addresses under the new street name at the time of future
development, eliminating the need for additional changes and
supporting long-term consistency.
• Overall, the proposed renaming is considered to have minimal impact
due to the small number of affected properties, the localized nature of
the corridor, and the absence of major commercial or high-intensity
uses.
• The request is consistent with prior City actions and planning initiatives,
including the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail and the use of downtown corridors
for commemorative purposes, supporting broader goals of cultural
recognition and community identity.
STREET RENAMING
PROCEDURE AND
COMPLIANCE ANALYSIS

• The proposed renaming has been evaluated for consistency with the City of
Stockbridge’s Unified Development Code, Section 16.10(A)(3), which establishes a
formal process to ensure transparency, public participation, and administrative
coordination.
• The request has been initiated by the City Council, satisfying the ordinance
requirements for initiating a street renaming action.
• The process requires mailed notice to affected property owners and publication of a
public hearing in the City’s legal organ, as well as posting on the City’s website and
at City Hall.
• A public hearing will be conducted by the Mayor and City Council, allowing all
interested parties the opportunity to provide input prior to final action.
• The ordinance establishes review criteria including property owner impact, public
safety, duplication of street names, historical significance, and administrative
feasibility.
• Based on staff analysis, the request meets these criteria, with minimal property
impact, no known conflicts, and no adverse effects on emergency services.
• Coordination with agencies including E-911, USPS, Henry County, and utility
providers will ensure consistent updates across all addressing and service systems.
• Accordingly, the proposed renaming is consistent with the City’s adopted
procedures and is appropriate for consideration by the Mayor and City Council.
• Implementation of the street renaming will require coordination among
multiple agencies to ensure consistency across all addressing,
mapping, and service systems, while minimizing disruption and
maintaining public safety.
• Coordination will occur with the United States Postal Service (USPS),
Henry County GIS and addressing, and E-911 emergency services to
update mailing records, mapping systems, and emergency response
COORDINATIO databases.

N • Additional coordination will include the Henry County Tax Assessor and
utility providers to update property records, billing systems, and service
REQUIREMEN accounts associated with affected properties.
• The City of Stockbridge Public Works Department will be responsible
TS for updating street signage, ensuring consistency with all database and
mapping updates.
• The City will also provide direct notification to affected property owners
to assist with updating personal and administrative records.
• Given the limited number of impacted properties, coordination is
expected to be manageable and can be completed efficiently through
standard administrative procedures.
STAFF FINDINGS
Berry Street is a historically significant corridor within downtown Stockbridge and has been previously
designated as part of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail, reinforcing its suitability for commemorative naming.

The proposed renaming will result in minimal impact, affecting only two developed properties, while all
remaining parcels are either undeveloped or not addressed off Berry Street.

The request is consistent with prior City actions and planning initiatives, including the use of downtown
corridors for cultural recognition, placemaking, and community identity.

The proposal meets the City’s street renaming criteria, including property owner impact, public safety,
administrative feasibility, and historical significance.

Councilman Alphonso Thomas’s decades of leadership and service warrant formal recognition within the
public realm, particularly given his role in advancing the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail initiative.

Based on these findings, the proposed renaming is appropriate, consistent with City practices, and in the
best interest of the community.
• Based on the analysis and staff findings
presented, staff recommends approval of the
resolution on first reading to rename Berry
Street to Alphonso Thomas Street. The
RECOMMENDATIO request is consistent with the City’s adopted
N procedures, results in minimal impact—
affecting only two properties—and represents
an appropriate and meaningful way to honor
Councilman Thomas’s legacy and
contributions to the community
SOUTH BERRY STREET
RENAMING COUNCILMAN
THOMAS

Community Development Department
Planning & Zoning Division
I. BACKGROUND

The consideration of South Berry Street for renaming is grounded in prior City initiatives,
historical planning decisions, and the City of Stockbridge’s ongoing efforts to recognize
individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the community. Street naming and
renaming serve not only as functional elements of the built environment, but also as a mechanism
for institutionalizing a city’s heritage and codifying its historical and cultural identity within the
public realm.

For the City of Stockbridge, the establishment of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail
represents a significant and deliberate effort to assert and preserve its historical identity. As a
smaller municipality within a larger metropolitan region, the City has sought to distinguish its
unique legacy, particularly its designation as the ancestral home of the King family. Through this
initiative, cultural recognition became a foundational component of the City’s broader downtown
revitalization strategy, linking historical commemoration with placemaking and community
identity.

The Heritage Trail initiative formally concluded with legislative adoption during the City Council
Meeting on September 14, 2015, marking a pivotal shift in the City’s approach to commemorative
practices. However, the foundation for this action began several months earlier through a formal
legislative process initiated in January 2015.

In January 2015, the Stockbridge City Council authorized the creation of a study committee to
evaluate the renaming of a street in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This resolution served
as the catalyst for the commemorative initiative and formally recognized Stockbridge’s historical
connection to the King family. The resolution also established a research-based mandate for
identifying an appropriate corridor that would provide the necessary prominence and dignity to
honor this legacy.

Mayor Pro Tem Alphonso Thomas served as the primary advocate and guiding figure for the
initiative. Throughout the spring and summer of 2015, he led a series of meetings and discussions
with the study committee to ensure that the effort was grounded in historical accuracy, strategic
planning, and community relevance. His leadership was instrumental in advancing the initiative
from a conceptual proposal to a vetted municipal strategy.

The study committee was tasked with evaluating the City’s street network and identifying a
corridor suitable for commemorative naming. This process required balancing symbolic
significance with practical considerations, including visibility, accessibility, and potential impacts
to property owners and businesses.

Following this evaluation, a multi-segment corridor was identified as the most appropriate location
for the Heritage Trail. This corridor included North Berry Street, South Berry Street, and Railroad
Street. These segments were selected due to their central location within downtown Stockbridge,
their visibility, and their ability to serve as a catalyst for both cultural recognition and economic
revitalization.

City leadership recognized that embedding the King family legacy within these corridors would
not only honor historical significance but also contribute to strengthening the identity and vitality
of the downtown area. As part of the public engagement process, the City hosted a community
“meet and greet” at the Merle Manders Conference Center, providing an opportunity to present the
rationale behind the corridor selection and to engage residents and stakeholders in the vision for
the Heritage Trail.

The initiative also received notable support from the King family, whose endorsement provided
both historical validation and moral significance to the project. Correspondence presented to the
City Council reflected the family’s appreciation and anticipation regarding the recognition of their
ancestral ties to Stockbridge. This endorsement reinforced the City’s efforts and further legitimized
the commemorative initiative.

During the June 23, 2015 Work Session, North and South Berry Street were formally identified as
the preferred corridor. Council discussions emphasized that Berry Street runs through the heart of
downtown Stockbridge, lies within the Main Street Program boundaries, and represents a highly
visible and accessible location for commemorative designation. Additionally, the corridor was
identified as having relatively minimal impact on adjacent properties compared to other potential
alternatives, making it both a symbolic and practical choice.

The corridor was ultimately designated as part of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail,
establishing South Berry Street as a recognized route for cultural and historical commemoration.
This designation reinforced the corridor’s role as a key component of the City’s downtown
framework and linked it to broader efforts related to heritage recognition, placemaking, and
community identity.

This prior evaluation and designation demonstrate that South Berry Street has already been
carefully considered by the City as an appropriate location for commemorative recognition. The
corridor’s selection in 2015 reflects a deliberate planning decision that balanced historical
significance, visibility, community engagement, and minimal disruption. As a result, South Berry
Street remains a logical and appropriate location for future commemorative naming initiatives,
including the current proposal to honor Councilman Alphonso Thomas.

II. PURPOSE OF REQUEST

The City of Stockbridge is requesting approval of a resolution on first reading to rename South
Berry Street to Alphonso Thomas Street, in honor of Councilman Alphonso Thomas and his
decades of dedicated public service to the community. This action supports the City’s continued
commitment to recognizing individuals who have made significant civic and historical
contributions.

The purpose of this request is to formally consider the renaming of Berry Street in recognition of
Councilman Thomas’s longstanding leadership, service, and impact on the City of Stockbridge.
Street renaming is a formal legislative action that allows municipalities to embed recognition of
individuals directly into the physical and cultural fabric of the community. As a permanent feature

of the public right-of-way, a street name serves not only as a navigational tool, but also as a
reflection of the City’s history, values, and collective identity.

The proposed renaming seeks to establish a permanent and visible tribute within the public realm,
reinforce the City’s commitment to honoring civic leadership, and strengthen community identity
through place-based recognition. This request is consistent with the City’s prior use of
commemorative naming as a planning and placemaking tool, particularly within the downtown
area where visibility and cultural significance are most strongly expressed.

The proposal also builds upon the City’s established precedent of utilizing Berry Street as a
corridor for cultural and historical recognition, as demonstrated through its designation as part of
the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail. In this context, the renaming represents a continuation
of the City’s intentional efforts to align its physical environment with its historical narrative and
civic values.

Additionally, this request is presented in recognition of Councilman Thomas’s passing in
December 2025. His decades of service to the City, including his leadership as Mayor Pro Tem
and his role in advancing key community initiatives, reflect a level of commitment that warrants
formal and lasting recognition. Notably, his leadership was instrumental in advancing the original
MLK Sr. Heritage Trail initiative, further strengthening the connection between his legacy and the
Berry Street corridor.

The renaming of Berry Street therefore represents not only an act of commemoration, but also an
opportunity to reinforce the City’s broader vision of preserving its heritage, honoring its leaders,
and strengthening a sense of place within the downtown area. Through this action, the City affirms
its commitment to recognizing individuals whose contributions have had a lasting impact on the
community while ensuring that their legacy remains embedded within the public realm for future
generations.

III. LOCATION AND CONTEXT

South Berry Street is located within the historic downtown area of the City of Stockbridge and
functions as a local connector within an established network of residential, civic, and institutional
uses. As illustrated in Exhibit A, the corridor extends between 2nd Street and Wilson Avenue and
connects directly to the M.L.K. Sr. Heritage Trail, a previously designated commemorative
corridor within the City. This connection places Berry Street within a broader framework of streets
that have already been identified by the City as having cultural and historical significance.

The surrounding area reflects a well-established community fabric characterized by a mix of
residential neighborhoods and institutional uses that serve the local population. Nearby land uses
include Trinity United Methodist Church, Floyd Chapel Baptist Church, Stockbridge Elementary
School, and Henry County STEM High School, which is scheduled to open in August 2027 at 109
South Lee Street in Stockbridge, Georgia. These institutions contribute to consistent daily activity
along the corridor and reinforce its role as a community-oriented environment. The presence of
schools and places of worship further enhances the visibility and recognition of the corridor,
making it an appropriate location for civic and commemorative designation.

From a land use perspective, the corridor is defined by predominantly low-density residential
development, with limited commercial activity. This contrasts with higher-intensity corridors such
as North Henry Boulevard, which function as primary commercial and transportation routes. The
relatively low intensity of development along Berry Street supports its classification as a
neighborhood-scale street, intended primarily for local access rather than regional traffic
movement.

In terms of connectivity, South Berry Street provides important local access between adjacent
streets and community destinations while maintaining a manageable scale of traffic. Its function
as a low-volume corridor contributes to a more stable and predictable environment, which is
beneficial when considering changes such as street renaming. Unlike major arterials or collector
roads, the limited number of access points and lower traffic volumes reduce the complexity of
implementation and minimize potential disruptions.

The corridor’s integration into the downtown area also enhances its visibility within the
community. While not a major commercial corridor, Berry Street remains centrally located and
accessible, allowing it to serve as a recognizable and meaningful location for honoring individuals
who have contributed to the City. Its proximity to key institutions, including the future Henry
County STEM High School, and its connection to the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail further reinforce its
symbolic and long-term significance within the City’s broader historical and cultural context.

Furthermore, the limited scale of development along this segment contributes to its suitability for
renaming, as fewer properties are directly impacted. This localized context supports the finding
that the proposed renaming will result in minimal disruption to property owners and service
providers while maintaining a high degree of visibility and recognition within the community.

Taken together, the corridor’s location, surrounding land use pattern, institutional presence, future
educational investment, and connectivity characteristics support its designation as an appropriate
and effective location for commemorative street renaming.

IV. ANALYSIS

South Berry Street has established historical and planning significance within the City of
Stockbridge and has been previously evaluated as a corridor appropriate for commemorative
designation. Its selection as part of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail demonstrates its
visibility within the downtown core, its cultural relevance, and its alignment with the City’s
broader efforts to incorporate historical recognition into the public realm. This designation reflects
a deliberate planning decision by the City to utilize centrally located corridors as platforms for
cultural expression and community identity.

The corridor’s location within the Main Street Program area further reinforces its importance
within the City’s downtown revitalization framework. As a visible and accessible street within the
downtown area, South Berry Street serves as an effective location for commemorative naming,
allowing recognition efforts to be integrated into areas of daily activity and public interaction. This
established precedent supports its continued use as a corridor for honoring individuals who have
made meaningful contributions to the community.

A parcel-level review of the South Berry Street corridor was conducted to assess potential impacts
associated with the proposed renaming. The analysis identified a total of five parcels along the
corridor, of which two are developed and three are undeveloped. The two developed parcels that
would be directly impacted by the proposed renaming are:

• 144 South Berry Street
• 146 South Berry Street

These properties would require address changes if the street is renamed, including updates to
mailing addresses, utility accounts, tax records, and emergency services databases. While this
represents a direct impact to affected property owners, the limited number of impacted parcels
significantly reduces the overall burden associated with the renaming.

From an implementation perspective, the scope of required changes is manageable and can be
addressed through coordinated efforts between the City and relevant agencies. Because the number
of affected properties is minimal, the administrative complexity typically associated with street
renaming—such as widespread address updates and business impacts—is substantially reduced.

The three undeveloped parcels do not currently have active structures or established addresses and
would therefore experience minimal impact. Any future development on these parcels would be
assigned addresses under the new street name at the time of permitting. As a result, no future
address changes would be required, and the renaming would not create additional administrative
burden. This condition is consistent with standard addressing practices and further supports the
conclusion that the overall impact of the proposed renaming is limited.

Overall, the proposed renaming is considered to have minimal impact due to the limited number
of affected properties, the localized nature of the corridor, and the absence of significant

commercial or high-intensity uses. As shown in Exhibit A, South Berry Street serves a relatively
small number of residential and institutional properties and does not function as a major
commercial or arterial corridor. This context supports the finding that the renaming can be
implemented with minimal disruption to the surrounding community.

The proposed renaming is also consistent with prior City actions and planning initiatives, including
the designation of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail and the use of downtown corridors for
commemorative purposes. The request aligns with the City’s participation in the Main Street
Program and supports broader goals related to cultural recognition, placemaking, and the
reinforcement of community identity within the downtown area.

V. STREET RENAMING PROCEDURE AND COMPLIANCE ANALYSIS

The proposed renaming of South Berry Street has been evaluated for consistency with the City of
Stockbridge’s adopted street renaming procedures as outlined in Section 16.10(A)(3) of the
Unified Development Code. This section establishes a formal and uniform process for the
renaming of public streets to ensure transparency, public participation, and administrative
coordination.

The ordinance provides that street renaming may be initiated by the Mayor, a member of the City
Council, the City Manager, City staff, or through a formal petition process. In this case, the request
is initiated by the City Council, which satisfies the initiation requirements outlined in the
ordinance.

In accordance with the ordinance, the City is required to provide mailed notice to all affected
property owners, businesses, and any applicable homeowners’ associations not less than thirty (30)
days prior to the required public hearing. The notice must include the current street name, the
proposed new street name, the reason for the change, and the date, time, and location of the public
hearing, along with instructions for submitting comments.

The ordinance further requires that the City publish notice of the public hearing in the City’s legal
organ and provide additional notice through posting on the City’s website and at City Hall. These
requirements ensure that the public is adequately informed and provided with an opportunity to
participate in the decision-making process.

A public hearing must be conducted by the Mayor and City Council prior to the adoption of any
street renaming ordinance. During this hearing, all interested parties are afforded the opportunity
to be heard, and any written comments received are included as part of the official record.
Following the public hearing, the Mayor and City Council may approve, modify, or deny the
proposed street renaming.

The ordinance also establishes specific review standards to guide the decision-making process.
These include consideration of the level of support or opposition from affected property owners
and businesses, potential duplication or confusion with existing street names, public safety
considerations, historical or cultural significance, administrative and implementation costs, and
any other factors related to the public health, safety, and welfare.

Based on staff’s analysis, the proposed renaming of Berry Street is consistent with these review
standards. The request involves minimal impact to property owners, does not present known
conflicts with existing street names, and will not adversely affect emergency response operations
with proper coordination. Additionally, the historical and civic significance associated with
Councilman Alphonso Thomas provides a strong basis for commemorative designation.

Finally, the ordinance requires coordination with external agencies, including Henry County E-
911, the United States Postal Service, local utility providers, and Henry County government prior
to implementation. These coordination efforts will ensure that addressing systems, emergency
services, and public infrastructure are updated in a consistent and timely manner.

Accordingly, the proposed renaming of South Berry Street may proceed in compliance with the
City’s adopted street renaming procedures and is appropriate for consideration by the Mayor and
City Council.

VI. COORDINATION REQUIREMENTS

If approved, implementation of the street renaming will require coordinated action among multiple
agencies and departments to ensure consistency, accuracy, and continuity across all public and
private systems that rely on addressing information. Effective coordination will be essential to
minimize disruption, maintain public safety, and facilitate a smooth transition for affected property
owners and service providers.

Primary coordination will occur with the United States Postal Service (USPS) to ensure that all
mailing addresses associated with Berry Street are updated within the national postal database.
This step is critical to maintaining uninterrupted mail delivery and ensuring that both existing and
future correspondence is accurately routed.

Coordination with Henry County GIS and the addressing division will be required to update
official address records, parcel data, and mapping systems. These updates will ensure consistency
across countywide databases and support integration with other governmental systems that rely on
accurate geospatial and addressing information.

A key component of the implementation process will involve coordination with Henry County
Emergency Services (E-911) to update the emergency response database. Accurate addressing is
essential for emergency dispatch and response, and updates must be completed in a timely manner
to prevent any disruption to public safety services. Verification of the updated street name within
emergency systems will be a priority prior to full implementation.

The Henry County Tax Assessor’s Office will also require notification to update property records
associated with affected parcels. This will ensure that property ownership records, tax billing
information, and official documentation reflect the new street name.

Coordination with utility providers, including water, sewer, electric, gas, and telecommunications
services, will be necessary to update service account records and billing systems. This will help
ensure continuity of service and prevent administrative issues for affected property owners.

At the municipal level, the City of Stockbridge Public Works Department will be responsible for
the removal and replacement of existing street signage and the installation of new signage
reflecting the approved street name. Signage updates will be coordinated to align with database
updates to avoid inconsistencies in wayfinding and navigation.

In addition to agency coordination, the City will provide direct notification to affected property
owners to inform them of the street name change and provide guidance on updating personal
records, including driver’s licenses, insurance documents, and other address-dependent
information.

Implementation of the street renaming will be conducted in a phased and coordinated manner to
ensure that all systems are updated concurrently and that any potential confusion is minimized.
Given the limited number of affected properties, the coordination effort is expected to be
manageable and can be completed efficiently with proper interagency communication.

Overall, the coordination requirements associated with the proposed renaming are limited in scope
and can be effectively addressed through standard administrative procedures, supporting the
conclusion that the renaming can be implemented with minimal disruption to the community.

Based on the analysis presented herein, staff finds that South Berry Street is a historically
significant corridor within the downtown area of the City of Stockbridge that has previously been
designated for commemorative purposes. Its inclusion as part of the Martin Luther King, Sr.
Heritage Trail demonstrates its established role as a visible and culturally relevant corridor within
the City’s public realm and reinforces its suitability for continued use in honoring individuals of
significance.

Staff further finds that the proposed renaming of South Berry Street would result in minimal
impact to the surrounding community. A parcel-level analysis indicates that only two developed
properties would be required to undergo address changes, while three undeveloped parcels would
experience no immediate impact. The limited number of affected properties, combined with the
localized nature of the corridor and the absence of high-intensity commercial uses, supports the
conclusion that the renaming can be implemented with minimal disruption.

The request is consistent with prior City actions and planning initiatives, including the designation
of South Berry Street as part of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail and the City’s broader use of
downtown corridors for commemorative naming. The proposal also aligns with the City’s
participation in the Main Street Program and supports ongoing efforts related to downtown
revitalization, placemaking, and the reinforcement of community identity.

Staff additionally finds that the request is consistent with the City’s established street renaming
procedures, which require consideration of factors such as property owner impact, public safety,
administrative feasibility, and historical or cultural significance. Based on staff’s review, the
proposed renaming satisfies these criteria, as it presents minimal impact, does not introduce known
conflicts with existing street names, and can be implemented through standard coordination
processes without adversely affecting emergency services or public infrastructure.

Furthermore, staff finds that Councilman Alphonso Thomas’s longstanding service and
contributions to the City of Stockbridge warrant formal recognition within the public realm. His
decades of leadership, civic engagement, and role in advancing community initiatives—including
his involvement in the establishment of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail—reflect a level of commitment
and impact that is consistent with the City’s criteria for commemorative naming.

Taken together, these findings support the conclusion that the proposed renaming of Berry Street
is appropriate, consistent with established City practices, and in the best interest of the community.

VII. STAFF FINDINGS

Based on the analysis presented herein, staff finds that South Berry Street is a historically
significant corridor within the downtown area of the City of Stockbridge that has previously been
designated for commemorative purposes. Its inclusion as part of the Martin Luther King, Sr.
Heritage Trail demonstrates its established role as a visible and culturally relevant corridor within
the City’s public realm and reinforces its suitability for continued use in honoring individuals of
significance.

Staff further finds that the proposed renaming of South Berry Street would result in minimal impact
to the surrounding community. A parcel-level analysis indicates that only two developed properties
would be required to undergo address changes, while three undeveloped parcels would experience
no immediate impact. The limited number of affected properties, combined with the localized
nature of the corridor and the absence of high-intensity commercial uses, supports the conclusion
that the renaming can be implemented with minimal disruption.

The request is consistent with prior City actions and planning initiatives, including the designation
of South Berry Street as part of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail and the City’s broader use of downtown
corridors for commemorative naming. The proposal also aligns with the City’s participation in the
Main Street Program and supports ongoing efforts related to downtown revitalization,
placemaking, and the reinforcement of community identity.

Staff additionally finds that the request is consistent with the City’s established street renaming
procedures, which require consideration of factors such as property owner impact, public safety,
administrative feasibility, and historical or cultural significance. Based on staff’s review, the
proposed renaming satisfies these criteria, as it presents minimal impact, does not introduce known
conflicts with existing street names, and can be implemented through standard coordination
processes without adversely affecting emergency services or public infrastructure.

Furthermore, staff finds that Councilman Alphonso Thomas’s longstanding service and
contributions to the City of Stockbridge warrant formal recognition within the public realm. His
decades of leadership, civic engagement, and role in advancing community initiatives—including
his involvement in the establishment of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail—reflect a level of commitment
and impact that is consistent with the City’s criteria for commemorative naming.

10
Taken together, these findings support the conclusion that the proposed renaming of South
Berry Street is appropriate, consistent with established City practices, and in the best interest of
the community.

11
