MAPC approves new apartment, subdivision projects in Jonesboro
by February 23, 2016 5:09 pm 394 views
George Stem said Tuesday that his grandson, Hayden Stem, came up with an idea to develop a series of two bedroom apartments in downtown Jonesboro. The project and the need for two bedroom apartments in downtown Jonesboro became a reality after the Metropolitan Area Planning Commission gave the go ahead for the project.
The Metropolitan Area Planning Commission voted 7-0 Tuesday (Feb. 23) to approve a conditional use permit for Vision 2000 to build 11 apartments in the 200 block of Union Street.
At one time, the building, about a block from the Jonesboro Municipal Center, was the home to a dry cleaners. Hayden Stem said he likes older buildings and that the Union Street building had begun to look abandoned. George Stem said his grandson, who works as project manager for his properties, lives in downtown Jonesboro and took a role in developing the project.
In addition to the apartments, a private parking lot will be built, as will a deck on the roof. George Stem said the apartments will cater to people who will work in the downtown area.
As for an economic impact, Hayden Stem declined to speculate on the cost. However, George Stem said the apartments would be in the $1,200 to $1,300 a month price range. Construction is expected to start next month and is expected to be complete by the end of the year, George Stem said, noting the developer will go to MAPC in March for final approval.
The commission also voted to approve a preliminary review for a new subdivision in east Jonesboro. Terry Bare with Hayward, Kenward, Bare and Associates said the project would have 102 lots on a 30 acres between East Johnson Avenue and Airport Road near Hilltop Drive and Vickie Drive.
The development will be a multiple phase project, with sewer connections being the first part of the development. Bare said he is optimistic about the project, with final construction expected to be complete by October 2016.
Construction, which is expected to bring about $1 million into the local economy, may be contingent on the weather, Bare said.