The New Albany Co., a prominent real estate developer, has proposed an exciting mixed-use development project in Johnstown’s Gateway District. Spanning across 417 acres, the project aims to revitalize the area and bring about positive economic growth.
The proposed development, known as the Johnstown Gateway Planned District, will be located just north of the Intel site and will be bordered by Green Chapel to the south, Clover Valley to the west, Mink Street to the east, and north of Duncan Plains to the north. It will consist of five distinct areas that will accommodate a range of different uses, including manufacturing, commercial, data centers, offices, warehouses, parking structures, retail spaces, park land, and potentially more than 1,000 housing units.
Tom Rubey, the director of development for The New Albany Co., emphasized that the project is focused on creating a long-term relationship with the city of Johnstown. The goal is to develop a mixed-use area that seamlessly integrates with the larger community vision and takes into account its impact on the local community.
For over 20 years, The New Albany Co. has been instrumental in developing manufacturing sites in western Licking County, particularly in the land annexed into New Albany. However, with this new proposal, the company aims to expand its reach and contribute to the growth and development of Johnstown.
The recent annexation of 286 acres of land from Monroe Township has brought Johnstown south to meet the New Albany city limits, making it an ideal location for the proposed development. Situated across from the Intel Corp. site, where construction on a $20 billion computer chip manufacturing facility is underway, the project aims to capitalize on the economic opportunities presented by the Intel development.
If approved by the city, non-residential development could commence as early as next year. The location of the development, coupled with its proximity to the Intel project, makes it an ideal space for suppliers and other industries to establish themselves, ultimately leading to job growth and significant investment in Johnstown.
The proposed development includes provisions for housing, with an estimated density of three units per acre, potentially resulting in approximately 1,251 housing units on the 417-acre site. Two of the five sub-areas in the planned district do not allow for multifamily housing, highlighting the emphasis on creating a diverse range of residential options.
To address concerns about overcrowding schools, The New Albany Co. has indicated that the housing developments will include limitations on the size and number of bedrooms, with an estimated 95% of the units being one- or two-bedroom. However, Johnstown-Monroe School Board President Tim Swauger expressed reservations based on past experiences, where estimates of student numbers have been significantly underestimated.
The proposed development also includes plans for infrastructure improvements, which could be funded through the establishment of a New Community Authority (NCA). The NCA would involve an annual voluntary real estate assessment, providing a consistent stream of revenue to support the development’s growth.
The New Albany Co.’s proposal represents a significant opportunity for economic growth and development in Johnstown. By leveraging the proximity to the Intel development and creating a diverse and vibrant mixed-use district, the project aims to attract businesses, create job opportunities, and contribute to the overall vision and success of the community. The city of Johnstown will now carefully consider the proposal, taking into account various perspectives and potential impacts before making a decision.
