City Council Holds Public Forum On Overton Condos

MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL — The Mountain Brook City Council's decision on the Overton Condos has been delayed after a public hearing on the matter at the council's Nov. 13 meeting. The council ultimately voted to extend deliberation with another public hearing.

The developer of the condos, Ron Durham, was present at the meeting to discuss the project and why the property should be rezoned for residential use. Concerns that were previously raised by community members were addressed as well, specifically traffic and safety.

A representative with Skipper Consulting, who conducted a traffic study of Overton Road, found that traffic on Overton Road has nearly doubled since an earlier count in the late 2000s, due in part to the traffic on U.S. 280 and Interstate 459. Sain Associates, from whom the city requested a study as well, agreed with the conclusion.

Durham also addressed property values, stating that the condos would sell for $300 per square foot and town homes for just over that. Residents are concerned that their homes may take a hit due to the development and increased traffic. Durham also said that he doesn't believe the development's height would present any issue to nearby homeowners.

In regard to concerns about nearby Brookwood Forest Elementary school, which is at capacity, Durham said the intended demographic for the condos would not be families with small children and is intended to appeal to one- to -two-person households.

In response, residents gave their own presentation led by economics professor Griffin Edwards, which reiterated previous concerns, specifically the economic impact of increased traffic. Edwards and other residents met with Durham to discuss the project but were unable to reach a mutual conclusion.

Vestavia Hills has yet to approve its portion of the development, since the project is split between both cities, though Durham indicated the project could still move forward even if Vestavia declines.

The council decided to carry over the public hearing to the Dec. 11 meeting.