Pooler residents voice options on proposed 100+ acre development

POOLER, Ga. (WTOC) - A community meeting was held in Pooler on Feb. 23 for a massive development proposal, referred to as ‘the District’. Plans show ‘the District’ as a 116 acres to bring a variety of activities to Pooler Parkway and Pine Barren Road.

WTOC was outside the meeting speaking with neighbors getting their options on proposition.

The few in favor of the development are saying that the development brings benefits that outweigh any downsides. Those opposed say this “mega-development” doesn’t account for increased daily commutes for residents.

LaTricia Brown, a Pine Barren Road resident, drives by the proposed development site every day. Brown stated how the city and those already living in the area could compromise on ‘The District’s’ development.

“It would’ve been nice to talk to us before promoting this big huge project that has not yet been approved by city council,” Brown said. “But some things that would help us to meet in the middle would be sidewalks along this road before bringing attractions here, can we widen this road before bringing more traffic here. Do the infrastructure first.”

Land developer Robert Forrest replied to the residents’ concerns at this meeting. Forrest confirmed the land is currently zoned for commercial development. His compromise to neighbors is to offer the site as mixed-use land.

The City of Pooler website listed the the mixed-use proposed uses:

• Approximately 1,060 multi-family dwelling unit
• 440 hotel rooms
• 10,000 SF grocery store
• Amphitheatre
• 1-2 gas stations
• Restaurant and office spaces
• 12-14 outparcels for various uses

Forrest said this zoning change would allow walking space and help regulate vehicle traffic.