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Dunwoody’s Mount Vernon Shopping Center Receives Zoning Change Amid Retail Challenges

Exterior view of Mount Vernon Shopping Center in Dunwoody, Georgia

News Summary

Dunwoody, a suburb of Atlanta, has received a zoning change for Mount Vernon Shopping Center, allowing for diverse businesses amid retail challenges and resident concerns. Community forums highlight the need for revitalizing local retail, addressing crime issues, and exploring redevelopment options for the future of this shopping center.

Dunwoody’s Mount Vernon Shopping Center Receives Zoning Change Amid Retail Challenges and Resident Concerns

Dunwoody, a bustling suburb of Atlanta, has recently seen an important development in its retail landscape with a new zoning change for the Mount Vernon Shopping Center. This fully leased neighborhood retail center at 5482 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd and 1244 Dunwoody Village Pky is poised for minor improvements as it seeks to navigate through challenging retail conditions.

Challenges Faced by Local Retail

The Perimeter Village shopping center, located off Ashford Dunwoody Road and encompassing an extensive 42 acres of space, has been facing significant hurdles. The closure of a Walmart Supercenter last summer, one of two stores in North Metro Atlanta to shut its doors due to underperformance, has heightened community concerns regarding the future of local retail. Currently, over 200,000 square feet of retail space is available at Perimeter Village, with another 15,000 square feet potentially opening soon.

Residents have actively participated in community forums discussing these closures and potential alternatives for revitalizing the shopping center. Concerns surrounding crime, particularly issues such as shoplifting and skip-scanning, have also been voiced, with local law enforcement reporting frequent calls related to Walmart’s operations.

Community Engagement and Redevelopment Ideas

The local community has expressed pessimism about the shopping center’s future, with many residents engaging on social media to share their worries. Recent discussions have been part of a larger series of community forums titled “Edge City 2.0: Shaping Tomorrow’s Perimeter.” These forums aim to address residential and commercial real estate trends, laying the groundwork for Dunwoody’s growth and development strategies.

As discussions continue, some residents are advocating for redevelopment opportunities that incorporate residential spaces, parks, and connected trails, shifting the focus from traditional retail in line with national trends towards online shopping.

Zoning Change and Future Prospects

In a significant move, Dunwoody’s Planning Commission recommended a zoning change for the Mount Vernon Shopping Center, transitioning from Neighborhood Shopping (NS) to Local Commercial (C-1). This new zoning classification allows for a more diverse range of businesses, such as private clubs, restaurants, and indoor recreation facilities. Additionally, a cap of 5,000 square feet has been placed on special-event facilities, demonstrating a responsive approach to community feedback regarding potential business hours and types.

Despite the optimism around the zoning changes, challenges remain. Local grocery store types are not being pursued due to leasing difficulties, and there has been significant turnover of anchor tenants at the shopping center, with past tenants including Harris Teeter and Ace Hardware. The recent closing of Lidl after just two years adds to the uncertainty.

City Council Directives and Upgrades

In order to enhance the shopping center’s viability, the City Council has mandated improvements to pedestrian access and other upgrades. This decision reflects a growing understanding of the evolving retail landscape and the necessity for adaptable strategies to meet community needs.

As Dunwoody navigates these evolving dynamics, the future of the Mount Vernon Shopping Center remains a focal point for local residents and city officials alike, highlighting the delicate balance between retail challenges and the aspirations of the community.