Businesses along the Scott Road corridor in Putnam County have welcomed the addition of the Stillwater subdivision now under development; however, some residents have expressed concerns about increased traffic and limited access to Highway 44, despite a new traffic signal at the intersection of Highway 44 and Scott Road.
According to Interim Putnam County Manager Byron Lombard, the Stillwater development presents challenges beyond traffic access. Lombard previously served as the longtime city manager for Greene County and was widely credited with guiding its 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 with 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 plan, which would encompass more than 165 acres when combined with earlier phases. The land was sold by Shaifer Oconee LLC, the owner and operator of Piedmont Water. The overall tract was rezoned from commercial planned unit development (CPUD) to residential planned unit development (RPUD) earlier this year.
Phase 1, already approved, sits on 59.562 acres and includes 155 mixed-use housing units, including single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. Phases 2 and 3, which are still awaiting approval, cover a combined 104.55 acres. Phase 2 proposes 121 units, while Phase 3 includes 111 units.
At least one business along the Scott Road corridor plans to capitalize on the expected residential growth. Owner Brandon Dail will relocate his home automation company, Epic Innovations of Lake Oconee, to 170 Scott Road in one of the nearby retail centers.
“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 working with some of the builders in Stillwater.”