Controversial Proposal For Hobbs-Friendly Shopping Center Moves Forward

A proposal for a shopping center at the intersection of Hobbs Road and Friendly Avenue in Greensboro has cleared another hurdle.

On Monday, the Greensboro Zoning Commission unanimously approved rezoning 6.7 acres to include both retail and residential development.

“This project will provide a larger tax base for the city and make the area more pedestrian friendly and walkable,” says Adam Marshall, Zoning Commission board member.

“This is an emotionally charged issue, but the plan is the most appropriate and best use for the property,” says Anita Bachmann, also a member of the city's Zoning Commission.

But not everyone agrees. Garnett Hughes is among dozens of people who attended the meeting to show their opposition for the project. He came to the Melvin Municipal building wearing a bright red sticker that said “No Commercial Encroachment”.  

Like many residents, he wants to preserve the residential character of his neighborhood.  He's also concerned about safety and traffic issues.

“The Friendly Shopping Center is a big enough development. We don't need another grocery store in that area. What is going to stop developers from asking for more commercial zoning from then on? What's next?,” says Hughes.

During the meeting, Halpern Enterprises presented its new plan to the Zoning Commission, which includes adding housing to create a buffer zone between residential and retail and preserving old trees in the community.  

Greensboro attorney Tom Terrell represents the Atlanta-based company. He says they're looking at adding restrictions to address some concerns, including limited business hours, and reduced signage and lighting in the development area.

“Tattoo parlors are another example. We did not include them in the list of disallowed uses because we thought tattoo parlors already were restricted and disallowed in that zoning district. That's been pointed out to us that they are allowed, so we will be eliminating that use,” says Terrell.

The Friendly Coalition, which opposes any retail development on the west side of Hobbs Road, says it will petition Greensboro city council on the issue.

A public hearing will take place May 19.

Follow Keri Brown on Twitter @kerib_news