Proposed Waynesville Development: New Apartments and Office Building

The article examines two development proposals in Waynesville: a 48-unit apartment complex and a separate downtown office building. Both projects are seeking town approvals and are drawing scrutiny from staff, neighbors, and commissioners.

Officials are weighing traffic, parking, stormwater, and the overall downtown character before permits can be issued. Final decisions will depend on site plan reviews, possible conditional use permits, and public hearings before town boards.

Apartment Complex

Waynesville is considering a 48-unit residential project on a 4.5-acre parcel off Jarrett Street, next to the Ingles shopping center. The proposal includes four buildings with a mix of one- to three-bedroom units.

On-site parking and stormwater management features are designed to meet local standards. The site layout aims to balance housing density with access and buffer needs in the neighborhood.

Developers must address design and infrastructure questions during the review process. Neighbors and staff have raised concerns about the project’s fit with the area, traffic on Jarrett Street, and parking availability.

Final plans must resolve these issues before permits and construction can proceed.

Key Features

• Four residential buildings totaling 48 units
• Location on a 4.5-acre parcel off Jarrett Street near the Ingles center
• Unit mix from one- to three-bedroom layouts
• On-site parking and stormwater management for sustainability

Office Building

The second proposal is an office building on a vacant lot at Russ and Church streets in downtown Waynesville. This project would add commercial space to the central business district, supporting local businesses and offering office space for small firms.

By locating downtown, the building aims to increase employment and complement the existing streetscape. The review process will consider zoning, design standards, and compatibility with nearby uses.

Stakeholders are interested in how the office will fit with pedestrian traffic, street activity, and parking in the area.

Commercial Space and Downtown Context

• Office space planned for a vacant downtown lot at Russ and Church streets
• Focus on adding commercial capacity within the central business district
• Potential synergy with nearby retail and services
• Impact on pedestrian experience and streetscape

Approval Path and Stakeholder Input

Both proposals require town approvals, including site plan review by the planning board and possible conditional use permits depending on zoning. Town staff have identified issues such as traffic, stormwater, utilities, landscaping, and compliance with regulations.

Neighbors and commissioners are focused on how the developments could affect downtown character, traffic, and parking. Developers must submit revised plans that address these concerns before permits are issued and construction begins.

Public hearings and formal reviews by town boards will help determine the outcome for both projects.

Impact on Waynesville

If approved, the two projects could diversify housing options and expand commercial capacity in Waynesville. This would support local growth and economic activity.

The apartment complex would add to the housing supply. It may attract a younger workforce or families seeking proximity to downtown amenities.

The downtown office building could boost professional services and retail activity in the central business district. These projects raise questions about character and cohesion in the downtown core.

There may be changes in traffic patterns and parking demand. Municipal staff and developers will need to work together on design, access, and amenity strategies.

These strategies should align with community goals and help preserve the town’s distinctive feel. Public hearings and planning board reviews will determine the timeline and feasibility of these developments.

Residents, business owners, and visitors should stay informed about upcoming meetings and submission milestones. This will help them understand how these projects may shape Waynesville’s future mix of housing and commerce.

 
Here is the source article for this story: New apartments and new office building proposed in Waynesville