Developers comment on controversial area

A newly installed sign went up Friday on the undeveloped property at the corner of Country
Club Lane and Vann Drive — catching the attention of many locals.

The sign references a potential development of 80 efficiency duplex rental units, the type of project that could move forward by right under the property’s current zoning.

The 7.5-acre site, located directly across from Cracker Barrel and adjacent to the Jackson
Country Club, has been the subject of growing interest — and concern — in recent weeks as its
future comes into focus.

What’s Really Happening Here?

Currently, the property is zoned for duplexes, but that’s not what the current development team is proposing.

According to the developers, they believe that duplexes would be a missed opportunity for the
area. Not only would it fail to complement surrounding properties, but it could also negatively
affect long-term property values in a high-visibility, high-traffic corridor like Vann Drive.
Instead, the team is requesting a zoning change that would allow for a more thoughtful, higher-end development.

Their proposal includes:

 Upscale, single-tenant commercial or restaurant space along the Vann Drive frontage
(zoned SC-1)

 Well-designed, high-quality townhomes on the rear portion of the property (zoned
PRD), acting as a buffer to the golf course and nearby residential neighborhoods

“This isn’t a strip center or a project with vape shops and dollar stores,” the developer clarified.
“We’re talking about high-end, single-tenant users — retail or restaurant concepts — that would elevate the corridor.”

The townhomes would likewise be positioned as a premium product, likely to attract owner-
occupants rather than renters. The developers say this approach is meant to complement the
character of nearby neighborhoods and add long-term value to the community.

What Happens If the Rezoning Is Approved?

Rezoning the property is just the first step. If approved, the developers would still need to go
through the City of Jackson’s site plan approval process. That includes:

 A traffic impact study
 Any necessary infrastructure improvements (like sidewalks and turn lanes)
 Enhanced landscaping and streetscape features
 Review and approval of building placement, design, and access points

The developers have shared a conceptual site plan, but stress that the layout is not final. It’s
simply a starting point for rezoning discussion and feedback.

“We want this to be something the community is proud of,” they said. “We understand the
importance of this site and we want to hear from residents. With Jackson’s ongoing growth, this land won’t sit empty forever — the question is what kind of development we want to see here.”

What’s Next?

The rezoning request will be heard by the Jackson City Council on July 1, 2025.

City of Jackson Zoning Ordinance: https://cdnsm5-hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_16361603/File/Departments/Planning/Forms%20&%20Documents/Zoning/City%20Zoning%20Ordinance%20Master%20Document.pdf