Mar. 20, 2013 – Disappointing news for residents of the Lakeshore Heights subdivision, despite their opposition, Gainesville City Council gave final approval to the development of a 25-acre Ga. 53/Dawsonville Highway retail center near the yesterday evening.

America’s Home Place, an independent custom home builder, asked the city to approve a 246,000-square-foot shopping center across from recently built restaurants Olive Garden, Cheddar’s Casual Cafe and Buffalo Wild Wings, and near the Lakeshore Heights subdivision.

The plan generated controversy among the neighborhood residents, and many spoke in opposition at the Planning and Appeals Board meeting Feb. 12 and before the first City Council vote on March 5.

Tuesday’s vote was unanimous for Approval.