The Decatur Downtown Development Authority has given its nod to a proposed townhome project at 111 Church Street, as reported in a recent meeting on January 12. This development plan includes the construction of 12 townhomes on a half-acre site, currently occupied by a one-story building and parking area, and zoned for commercial use. Two of these units are earmarked as affordable housing, a significant move considering the project’s location in a commercially zoned area south of the city’s core commercial district.
The project, spearheaded by Jackbilt Development, seeks a conditional use permit and a special exception for building height, aiming for structures closer to 46 feet to accommodate roof decks, exceeding the current 40-foot limit. The townhomes, ranging from 1,600 to 1,800 square feet, will feature two or three bedrooms, garages, and rooftop decks. Some units may include a live-work space or a mother-in-law suite on the first level. Additionally, a private park space for residents is part of the plan.
This development is not only about adding more housing options but also about contributing to the city’s affordable housing stock. For developments with more than five units in Decatur, 10% are to be offered to households earning around 120% of the area median income, making this project a significant addition to the city’s efforts to increase both housing density and affordability.
Construction is anticipated to start later this year or early in 2025, pending approval of the necessary permits by the city commission. This project represents a step forward in addressing the housing and affordable housing shortages in Decatur, offering high-quality living spaces in a prime location.