JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A new development that’s designed to attract young professionals to Jackson is moving forward, but not without controversy.

Developers are ready to move into the next phase of the Village at Livingston Place project.

In a 4-2 vote and a one abstention, the Jackson City Council voted to move forward with the project. It was a heated discussion between Councilman Kenneth Stokes, Ward 3, and his colleagues. He said residents in his ward are not pleased with the decision to approve the project.

Robert Gibbs, an attorney for the Alabama-based developer, said $2 million has already been invested into the project to clear the area and install utility lines. He said they’re looking to build 200 new homes with the hopes of expanding the area and providing an economic boost to the City of Jackson.

“What we have to do now once the plan is approved, well, we’re going to be… We are working with the construction company to close the construction project once that’s closed on, then we start the construction. So, we expect that to starts within the next two to three months. There shouldn’t be anymore hold ups,” said Gibbs.

He said a new neighborhood has not been introduced in the city in about 30 years. Homes will range between $200,000 and $300,000.