Bougie dog park faces opposition from some Atlanta residents
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Skiptown aims to open its newest facility in Atlanta in the fall. Photo: Skiptown
Skiptown's plan to bring an upscale dog park and boarding facility to Atlanta's eastern edge is drawing opposition from some residents who would be living near it.
Why it matters: Residents say Skiptown's plans for 200 Arizona Ave. do not fit the city's heavy industrial zoning classification for the site.
- They also worry that the number of dogs on the property would bring unwanted noises and smells to the neighborhood.
The big picture: Skiptown, a membership-based "dog social club" with locations in Charlotte and Denver, plans to open a 39,200-square-foot facility that will include indoor and outdoor places for dogs to play, day care and boarding facilities and grooming services.
- The site on the border of Edgewood and Kirkwood will also have an outdoor dining area complete with food, beer, wine, cocktails and a coffee bar.
- The company has said it wants to open later this year.
Friction point: Associations representing two neighboring condominiums, Arizona Lofts and La France Street, have hired attorneys and appealed a decision allowing the project to proceed.
What they're saying: "People may want to take their dogs to a facility like that, but I would imagine most people don't want to live within 25 feet of that," Eileen McClay, president of the La France Street Lofts association, told Axios.
- McClay, who owns two dogs, said she and others are concerned about how noisy the property will get when dozens of dogs are there at peak hours.
- She also said people may get distracted by ordering food and drinks and not consistently watch their pups.
Margaret Greenwald, who lives in Arizona Lofts, told Axios she fears she won't be able to enjoy her outdoor space because her unit looks directly over the park.
- She created a petition opposing the project, and about 50 people who live in the area have signed it. (Another petition in favor of Skiptown is also online.)
The other side: Skiptown founder and CEO Meggie Williams told Axios in a statement the company has been "surprised and confused by the repeated false allegations from a few people."
- She said Skiptown's uses fit the zoning designation, and the city of Atlanta has "repeatedly confirmed" that.
- "We have been open and consistent with the scope of our business at all times and appreciate the warm welcome we have received from so many in the community," she said.
Worthy of your time: Skiptown also released a list of frequently asked questions related to the Atlanta project, which touches on concerns about noise, parking, safety precautions and odors.
What's next: The Board of Zoning Adjustment will hear the appeal on Nov. 14, said board secretary Angela Blatch.