As the city of Conyers proposes to change the historic overlay zoning district in Olde Town Conyers to the Downtown District (D), residents and property owners in the area are invited to learn more about the proposed change in zoning at upcoming town hall meetings and public hearings.

The D district, the new, proposed zoning district, was created to protect historic development while providing an opportunity for Olde Town Conyers to re-establish itself as a center of commerce and promote walkability to a unique variety of mixed-use establishments including civic, office, restaurant, retail and residential uses within the district.

"The new D district will preserve the history and charm of Olde Town and offer developers guidelines for new development and redevelopment within the area that is consistent with the city's Comprehensive Land Use Plan and the council's vision for our historic center, the heart of the city," said Director of Planning and Inspections Marvin Flanigan.

The D district is composed of approximately 282 acres within the city of Conyers that comprise the Conyers historic district. The D district is further divided into subsections: downtown edge, downtown civic and downtown center.

The city of Conyers Department of Planning and Inspections will conduct two town hall meetings to discuss the proposed rezoning and field questions from residents and property owners. Town hall meetings will be held on Tuesday, July 15 and Tuesday, July 22 at 6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers at 1194 Scott Street on the second floor of the Conyers Police Department.

Public hearings will be held at the Historic Preservation Commission meeting on Monday, July 28 at 6 p.m. in City Council Chambers, at the Conyers-Rockdale Planning Commission meeting on Thursday, August 14 at 7 p.m. in the Rockdale County Assembly Hall at 901 Main Street and at the Conyers City Council meeting on Wednesday, August 20 at 7 p.m. in City Council Chambers.

"These town hall meetings are designed to be highly informative and interactive so citizens and business owners can obtain the most information about decisions pertaining to their properties," said Mayor Randy Mills. "We are anticipating good participation among property owners so everyone has a level of comfort and understanding of this new zoning district."

Citizens unable to attend the town hall meetings may download the zoning district map and proposed ordinance on the city of Conyers website, www.conyersga.com. For more information on the rezoning town hall meetings, call 770-929-4280.