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Politics & Government

City Council Approves Student Apartment Complex

Residents speak out against project because of traffic and noise concerns.

The Kennesaw City Council unanimously approved plans for an 850-bed student apartment complex near Cherokee Street and McCollum Parkway at their meeting Monday.

Representatives of the project developer, Cima Management, were on hand to address the concerns voiced by several Kennesaw residents who live near the proposed 19-acre development. Many were concerned with the increased noise level and traffic that will come with the new housing.

Cima Management Partner Marc Bensman said he would agree to many of the residents’ requests, including adding a privacy wall and planting 20-foot-tall Leyland cypress trees to combat any additional noise from the complex and maintain security.

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Addressing traffic concerns in the area, Bensman said the complex is working with to utilize a shuttle service for students residing in the area. Mayor Mark Mathews also commented that SPLOST funds will be used to implement additional traffic signals and make turn lanes and other intersection improvements.

Many residents from Maple Drive attended the meeting and voiced their concerns, including Kennesaw resident Doris Roman.

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“We object to this development because of the additional traffic and noise level it will bring,” said Roman, who has lived in the area for three years. “The reason we chose to live here is because it is quiet and we know our neighbors. We love where we live – and now you are taking away our little piece of Mayberry.”

Despite public comments against the apartment complex, Council member Cris Welsh commended Cima Management for their willingness to work with the community, city planners and Kennesaw State University in the design of the development.

The council also approved business licenses for a massage therapist at 1635 Old 41 Highway and an alcohol retail package store at 2851 North Cobb Parkway.

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