This month, I want to give you a closer look at a Dunwoody rezoning case that involved community input, compromise and a lot of hard work. It also speaks to the strength of Dunwoody’s commercial appeal, which benefits all who live and work here.

Kroger Marketplace

Last week, Dunwoody City Council approved a plan to redevelop the former Walmart on Ashford Dunwoody Road into a Kroger Marketplace. Kroger will occupy a large portion of the former Walmart footprint, while the property owner, Kimco Realty, considers options for the remaining space.

Kroger’s plan is a strong example of how Dunwoody’s rezoning and Special Land Use Permit (SLUP) process is designed to work, and it began long before the case reached City Council. In late 2025, the Kroger team held a pre-application conference with planners in the Dunwoody Community Development department. This set the stage for the work to come.



Next, Kroger held a required neighborhood meeting after advertising it in the newspaper and sending postcards to more than 200 nearby residential property owners within 1,000 feet. The February meeting provided an early opportunity for public input.

Staff review

In March, Kroger filed its official application with the City. From there, staff evaluated the site layout, access, circulation, landscaping, signage, and compliance with Dunwoody’s Code of Ordinances and Comprehensive Plan. While the property was already zoned for commercial use, the proposed pharmacy drive-through, fuel center, site changes, and requested zoning modifications required additional public review.

Dunwoody Planning Commission

A meeting of the Dunwoody Planning Commission in May provided a second opportunity for public input. The Planning Commission is made up of seven Dunwoody residents appointed by the Mayor and approved by City Council. During this meeting, residents living behind the property raised concerns about noisy overnight truck deliveries. The Planning Commission listened and recommended approval with limits on truck deliveries.

City Council



The final stop was the Dunwoody City Council, which held two meetings in July. This gave staff, residents, and the applicant two more chances to share their plans, perspectives, and concerns. Residents made the case for a further reduction in delivery hours, and Kroger agreed. 



Large redevelopment projects require collaboration. They also require patience, careful analysis, and a willingness to listen. I’m grateful to our staff, Council, and Kroger representatives for working diligently to develop a plan that works for everyone.

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