Georgia 54 West Court District approves new landscape design guidelines

The Peachtree City Planning Commission meeting on November 18, 2024, focused on the design guidelines and stipulations for developments within the Georgia 54 West Court Overlay District. Key discussions revolved around the landscape buffer requirements and the proposed plant materials for a new development project.

During the meeting, officials highlighted that the landscape buffer adjacent to Highway 54 must be a minimum of 30 feet, a requirement that has been met in the current site plan. The design guidelines specify that the buffer should incorporate various elements such as fencing, meandering paths, berms, low masonry walls, sidewalks, and landscaping to enhance the visual appeal and functionality of the area.

The guidelines also dictate specific tree requirements: canopy trees must have a minimum caliper of 6 inches, which is larger than the typical 3 inches, and should be spaced at least 25 feet apart. Additionally, understory trees must be at least 2 inches in caliper. The meeting noted that evergreen hedges in front of parking areas should be 36 inches tall and planted in staggered rows to provide adequate screening.

Commission members reviewed the proposed plant materials, which largely align with a suggested list from the design guidelines. The development plan includes three shumard oaks in the front, meeting the 6-inch requirement, along with eight understory trees such as redbuds and service berries. Staggered rows of lower pedilums are also proposed to effectively screen the parking area.

The discussions underscored the importance of adhering to established design standards to maintain the aesthetic integrity of the Georgia 54 West Court Overlay District. The commission's approval of these guidelines is a step towards ensuring that future developments contribute positively to the community's landscape.