Zoning Commission Approves Cahaba Heights Townhome Developments

VESTAVIA HILLS, AL - Despite some opposition from local residents, the Vestavia Hills Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended the Vestavia Hills City Council approve the rezoning of an area of Cahaba Heights for two townhome developments.

The developments are on Poe Drive and Fairhaven Drive, as developer Charles Kessler plans to build three luxury townhomes at 3771 Fairhaven Drive and four at 3783 Fairhaven Drive, and developer Ron Durham is building five townhomes at 3791 Poe Drive. Durham’s project is part of his work in Mountain Brook and Vestavia with Overton Village, according to the Vestavia Voice.

Several residents spoke in opposition, mainly to Kessler’s development on Fairhaven. One resident in Overton Cove told the commission she was concerned about the current and future deterioration of both Fairhaven Drive and Poe Drive, blaming Kessler’s longtime development work for the condition of the roads. She said she was also concerned about what she said was “a lack of regard for the neighborhood."

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Kessler said he’s been in the area since 1986 and has won numerous awards for his homes, and reminded the commission he’s offering to install sidewalks on Poe Drive at a cost of $150,000 to himself. At a recent work session, City Manager Jeff Downes said the city’s cost for that project is $49,999.

Related Story: Poe Drive Sidewalk Project May Be A Joint Effort

Durham’s original plan was to build 41 residential units with 10 of those in Vestavia, but that number has been reduced to 27 units, with five townhomes in Vestavia, three townhomes in Mountain Brook and 23 condominiums.

The Vestavia Hills City Council still must approve the rezoning before it becomes final.

Image via Barrett Architecture Studios