Marietta Council Denies Nexus Gardens, Laurel Park Developments

MARIETTA, GA — Two proposed mixed-use developments at the intersection of Powers Ferry Road and South Marietta Parkway are no longer coming to fruition, per a Marietta City Council vote.

In a packed meeting, Marietta City Council members voted unanimously last Wednesday to deny the rezoning applications for the two developments, called Nexus Gardens and Laurel Park, and effectively prevent them from being built. The projects were slated to bring hundreds of townhomes, apartments and senior living units as well as retail and office space to Marietta.

Council chambers were standing room only and some residents brought signs to show their opposition to the developments. Residents said the projects would make the area less affordable and increase traffic to dangerous levels, the Marietta Daily Journal reported — and they created two websites to organize opposition.

Council Member Michelle Cooper Kelly, made the motion to deny the first rezoning application. The second application failed about 30 minutes later, and the packed council chambers erupted in applause from residents.

“You guys really came together as a community,” Kelly said. “You’ve expressed your concerns. I don’t think I’ve ever gotten so many emails and phone calls. But you’re doing exactly what I believe this democracy is designed to do.”

Read more on the MDJ's website here.