Businesses along the Scott Road corridor in Putnam County have welcomed the addition of the new Stillwater subdivision currently under construction.
However, some residents remain concerned about traffic congestion, particularly the two-lane bottleneck approaching the Ga. Highway 44 intersection, even with the addition of a new traffic signal at Scott Road.
According to interim Putnam County Manager Byron Lombard, the Stillwater development presents challenges that extend beyond road access. Lombard previously served as Greene County's longtime acting county manager and was widely credited with helping guide the county through a period of significant growth.
“Yes, projects of this size create density issues for roads and utilities. Like Greene County, Putnam is experiencing the same growth as Lake Country continues its popularity to both new residents and businesses,” Lombard said. “We know we need to get ahead of these important concerns like managing growth, utilities and ancillary services to residents by making the area safe and efficient for all.”
Stillwater Lake Oconee has submitted its final Phase 3 plans, completing a development that will encompass more than 165 acres across Phases 1, 2 and 3. The property was sold by Shaifer Oconee LLC, owner and operator of Piedmont Water. Earlier this year, the overall tract was rezoned from Commercial Planned Unit Development (CPUD) to Residential Planned Unit Development (RPUD).
Phase 1, which has already been approved, spans 59.56 acres and includes 155 mixed-use residential units consisting of single-family homes, townhomes and apartments. Phases 2 and 3, which are awaiting approval, cover a combined 104.55 acres. Phase 2 includes plans for 121 mixed-use residential units, while Phase 3 proposes an additional 111 units.
At least one business along the Scott Road corridor is already planning to capitalize on the area's residential growth.
Brandon Dail, owner of Epic Innovations of Lake Oconee, said his home automation company will relocate to 170 Scott Road, where he expects the expanding community to create new business opportunities.
“We are very excited to move here and expect the business to grow with the addition of new housing,” Dail said. “There will be numerous opportunities expected with working with some of the builders in Stillwater.”