Developer withdraws application for proposed apartment complex near VHECH

During Thursday's planning and zoning commission meeting, developer Steven Hydinger withdrew his application for for a 150-unit apartment complex between Dolly Ridge Road and Oakview Lane.

Around 100 members of the Cahaba Heights community gathered Monday to discuss the potential development near the Vestavia Hills Cahaba Heights Elementary School. Hydinger, a managing member of the property’s management company Brec Development, presented the proposed development on Monday and explained why he believed it would benefit the community.

As of Thursday afternoon, a petition against the proposed development had reached 1,165 signatures. A Facebook group had also been created to discuss ongoing community development.

More than 100 attended the planning and zoning meeting, which was at full capacity. A large crowd gathered outside City Hall, and children held posters reading "Not in our School Yard" as cars driving by on U.S. 31 honked in support.

"He heard you loud and clear on Monday night," said Director of Public Services Brian Davis. "He has withdrawn his application and is going back to the drawing board."

The crowd erupted in cheers following Davis' announcement. Resident Julia Crigler, who was inside the meeting for the announcement, said she was in tears.

Crigler said the issue was not that the community didn't want a new development but that it was that they didn't want something so large.

"We are passionate about finding something that fits into the nature of our city,"  Crigler said.

Abby Brady has lived in Cahaba Heights for 12 years and echoes Crigler's sentiments.

"I think there is a misconception that this community does not want change," said Brady. "We do want growth and to evolve into the beautiful, walkable, village that has been envisioned for years. This is simply not the right development for this space."

Crigler hopes this effort will have an impact on the community as they look ahead to future projects.

"It feels so good to be heard," Crigler said. "You won't find a greater community than this one anywhere in the the greater metro area. This has helped us become better organized and prepared for the next time a developer comes in."