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rlington's Planning and Zoning Commission approved a luxury apartment complex on Randol Mill Road, despite opposition from neighborhood residents. The 23-acre site is already zoned for apartments, but the developer, OHT Partners, needed city approval to move forward. The project includes 360 residential units, amenities like a pool and dog park, and a jogging trail.

    Residents expressed concerns about traffic, safety, drainage, and property values. One homeowner said she wouldn't have bought her home if it backed up to an apartment building. Commissioners acknowledged these concerns but noted that the site is already zoned for apartments.

    The commission approved the project in a 5-3 vote, with conditions. OHT must conduct a traffic impact analysis, enhance security, and preserve live oaks on the property. The developer also needs to demolish a defunct rehabilitation center on the site, which has fallen into disrepair and cannot be brought up to code.

    The development is expected to increase tax revenue from $30,000 to $600,000 annually. OHT's managing director, Howell Beaver, said the project will revitalize a vacant property that has been under-demolished for years.