David over at InDecatur might have been right when he used the word “cram” to describe what JLB developers have proposed to put in the parking lot behind the old Wachovia building at 315 W. Ponce. Here’s a comparison (in units) of JLB’s plan vs. other existing downtown Decatur condo complexes.

Proposed 315 W. Ponce complex – 220 units (& 50-70 hotel rooms)

Compare that to…

335 W. Ponce – 70 units

The Artisan Phase 1 – 77 units

The Artisan Phase 2 – 50 units [thanks to Carl for giving me a hard # in the comments section]

Decatur Renaissance – 168 units

Townsquare Condos – 105 units

More units than the Renaissance?! Yikes…that’s a big, empty parking lot, but its not THAT big. Let’s just pray the development needs variances from the city, otherwise the city and neighborhood may be working with limited bargaining chips.

I’m also just realizing that this development will mean longer lines at Tacqueria…

Data and photos taken from DecaturGA.com

UPDATE: David points out that the floor plans probably won’t be as spacious as other Decatur condo developments in order to squeeze the 220 condos into the space.

I’m wondering if JBL has checked out how well the smaller, 1 bedroom condos over at the Renaissance are selling… I’ve seen a lot of empty balconies over there…

We here at Decatur Metro have known about this new addition at the northern edge of Oakhurst (910 W. College Ave) since Silk: A Smoothie Cafe mentioned the potential neighborly competition in a profile over on Creative Loafing’s Fresh Loaf. But their recent liquor license approval reinvigorated my interest, so I quickly went to the internet for some answers.

Before long I found both the Decatur location and the franchise headquarters’ websites. (Yes, it is a national franchise…with locations in at least 13 states, mostly out west and in the south. The Decatur shop will be the first GA based Moxie Java). The Decatur location’s website is ripe with construction photos, a menu, background on the family that’s running the shop, and job applications.

A closer look at the menu conveys that this is much more than just a coffee house. In addition to the usual java drinks, Moxie Java will also serve baked goods, salads, soups, sandwiches and gelato.

Only thing I couldn’t find is an opening date. Please comment below if you know. UPDATE: Local resident and owner, Michael, tells us in the comments that Moxie Java should be open mid to late February.

Only time will tell how many coffee bars the city’s residents can support, and whether Moxie Java can over come the problems associated with location that have been described by the owner of Silk.

Regardless, it should be a nice neighborhood addition for the Oakhurst coffee addicts that live within walking distance!