Sandy Springs authorizes eminent domain for sidewalk project

A retail strip along Roswell Road is the subject of disputed values between the city of Sandy Springs, which needs land for a sidewalk project, and the property owner. GOOGLE MAPS

A retail strip along Roswell Road is the subject of disputed values between the city of Sandy Springs, which needs land for a sidewalk project, and the property owner. GOOGLE MAPS

The Sandy Springs City Council has authorized eminent domain proceedings if negotiations fail to resolve differing land values for two tracts needed for a Roswell Road sidewalk project.

The city seeks about 905 square feet fee simple and 1,074 square feet of temporary construction easement at 5696 Roswell; and approximately 1,459 square feet fee simple and 1,258 square feet of temporary construction easement at 5674 Roswell, according to a memo to the council from City Attorney Dan Lee.

Sandy Springs offered $136,700 for the first parcel and $200,300 for the second; but the owner of both, Roswell Road Development Partners LLC, returned counter offers of $680,000 and $840,000, respectively.

Both properties are small strip shopping centers immediately south of I-285. Tenants include Quick Stop, Love Shack, Cricket and Metro PCS stores, a coin laundry and a restaurant.