A vote by the Tyrone Town Council to allow three-story buildings to extend to 40 feet may help pave the way for a planned hotel at the corner of Ga. Highway 74 and Dogwood Trail. Tyrone currently has no other hotels or motels within its town limits.

Above, developer Steve Gulas addresses the Tyrone Town Council about his hotel proposal. Photo/Ben Nelms.

The 3-1 vote, with Councilwoman Gloria Furr opposed, increased building heights in the commercial zoning district from 35 feet to 40 feet. Developer Steve Gulas had requested a 45-foot height to accommodate varying facades along the roofline that would result in flexibility of design.

Representatives of Founders Studios and Glendalough Manor supported the request, while the three people opposed cited the potential for increased crime, increased traffic and the belief that “We don’t need people from outside Tyrone.”

Responding to a question about sewer, Gulas said tests of the soil indicate that septic can be utilized on the site, though he favored sewer.

The 4.71-acre site at the corner of Dogwood Trail and Hwy. 74 is already zoned to accommodate a hotel. Gulas said the hotel is expected to include approximately 80 rooms on three floors.