The Oakwood City Council unanimously approved the rezoning of a 20.6-acre commercial site between Interstate 985 and Atlanta Highway near Exit 17 from planned commercial development to commercial at a meeting Monday
evening.

And according to Frank Simpson, president of The Simpson Co. in Gainesville, Milton Martin Toyota is planning on building a new dealership on the rezoned land.

“Last time we met, I talked about what we’d like to see go here,” said Simpson of the plot of land.

“I’m excited to announce tonight that we are in final discussions with Milton Martin Toyota. I feel like we have found a site that Milton Martin can establish for the next 50 years.”

While Simpson said there were still a few things left to work out, he still felt “very confident” about the plans with the dealership.

Simpson hopes to close with Milton Martin Toyota sometime in February and begin construction on the dealership and stand-alone collision center immediately after.

In addition to the dealership, Simpson and City Manager Stan Brown said they hoped to see some of the land used by sit-down eateries and are already in talks with several restaurants.

“More sit-down restaurants are needed in Oakwood, and we believe this will improve the lives of our citizens,” said Brown.

Simpson said conditions with the retail market are beginning to improve, and development of the land
is evidence.

“We’re starting to see more activity in regards to retail tenants,” said Simpson.

“It’s nice to see things are starting to turn around.”