A new kind of subdivision has been proposed along Steven’s Creek Road
Thomas J. Washburn of Winchester Homebuilders plans to build a mixed-use neighborhood in seven undeveloped parcels, 831 to 843 Riverwatch Parkway. The 13-acre tract, currently zoned Single-family Residential (R-1A), is fronted by Riverwatch to its south, and Stevens Creek to its east.
Winchester has petitioned to rezone the property to Planned Unit Development (PUD), to make for the project, described in the narrative document as a private gated community, geared towards “young couples, singles and empty nesters,” with a variety of dwelling types.
The subdivision will include one, two and three-story townhomes, cottages, duplexes, villas and mansion flats, up to 160 units, at a density of approximately 13 to 16 units per acre. Some 10 acres are to be devoted to residential development, with the main entrance at Stevens Creek and another to be installed from Mayo Road, with about 3.8 acres of open space.
The narrative also intimates that the new community will have a host of amenities, from a fitness center, clubhouse and co-working spaces to walking trails, dog parks and children’s play areas.
The development will use two acres, located at the corner of Riverwatch and Stevens Creek, for commercial use, particularly for establishments permitted under General Business (B-2), which would exclude liquor stores, nightclubs or bars. The narrative document includes
Winchester cites the 2023 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) adopted by the CSRA Regional Commission, which projects Augusta will have more than 10,000 additional residents by 2040.
The narrative also refers to a 2022 study conducted by a Berkeley, Calif.-based planning firm, Opticos Design, on the Athens area, noting it “has many findings directly relatable to Augusta, on the lack of medium-density housing, with stats indicating that residents across age groups desire more walkable neighborhoods.
The Augusta Planning Commission is slated to consider the rezoning request during its July 7 meeting.
Skyler Q. Andrews is a staff reporter covering business for The Augusta Press. Reach him at skyler@theaugustapress.com.
