Public Comments

April 9, 2026
at 10:31 AM

Teri
37920

4-A-26-OB
Teri (37920), April 7, 2026 at 8:49 AM

Please do not build any additional housing units at this location. We have so many "student" housing already in place in this vicinity and the traffic on Chapman Hwy -Henley Bridge is horrid. Since the Gay street bridge is only pedestrian-the traffic is a nightmare trying to get into the city or onto I-40. Knoxville is growing-we understand-but there are so many other places that can fit more housing units and it's not at this location. What an eyesore the riverfront has become with dozens of cheaply built, overpriced apartment complexes. When did Knoxville become a College with a city built around it instead of a City with a college? Money hungry out of town businesses are sucking the beauty out of our town.

April 7, 2026
at 8:49 AM

4-B-26-SU

cindy
37914

4-B-26-SU
cindy (37914), April 9, 2026 at 10:31 AM

The noise and disturbance this church already creates is bad enough. I am opposed to the expansion. Plus there are 5 other churches within walking distance of this one.

April 11, 2026
at 11:31 AM

Kathleen
37920

4-A-26-OB
Kathleen (37920), April 11, 2026 at 11:31 AM

As a home owner and business owner in South Knoxville, I vehemently disagree with the plan to build that complex at Kerbela shrine. They are asking for height and size variances. The South waterfront codes were written precisely to protect South Knoxville. There should be NO EXCEPTIONS TO THESE STANDARD STANDARDS. The corner of Chapman Highway/Henley and Blount Streets already have enough housing. The traffic alone from this complex will turn Chapman Highway into more of a death trap. People exiting their complex at Mimosa Avenue we’ll have to squeeze their way into northbound traffic to go over the Henley Bridge. There is currently a no left turn sign at mimosa and Chapman so there will be no way for residence of this complex to turn left. The southbound traffic coming over the Henley bridge will have to move into the center turn lane and then cross through two lanes of traffic to enter their complex at mimosa Avenue this entrance/egress cannot afford that kind of traffic. The Henley Street bridge is the only north south tributary that we have since the Gay Street bridge is closed.

April 13, 2026
at 8:31 PM

Lynette
37920

4-A-26-OB
Lynette (37920), April 13, 2026 at 8:31 PM

One set of the stairs up the steep North site of the hill facing the river needs to be converted into a long ramp. I'm a fairly active senior but if I lived there and were to cross the Gay street bridge to town and was counting on the elevator to get me back up the hill and I came back to find it not working.....believe me, I have been there and seen it when there is only one elevator....I would be up that proverbial creek without a paddle. A ramp I would be able to handle slowly but surely.

April 16, 2026
at 2:19 PM

David
37939

4-A-26-OB
David (37939), April 16, 2026 at 2:19 PM

Please consider the traffic this causes. The roads are already overloaded in this area due to recent developments that did not take this into consideration. Parking is also a problem with the developments there now. The neighborhood and businesses in this area do not deserve to suffer more of this problem. We need adequate infrastructure and parking and what is there now is not sufficient to handle this or even what was done prior to this. Please be a responsible government and due what is fair to all involved directly or indirectly. Thankyou for your attention, David

Eric
37932

4-A-26-OB
Eric (37932), May 5, 2026 at 9:18 PM

What astonishingly boring design. This design will not age well, and in 15 years it's going to look terribly out of date. Knoxville needs to require the developer to come up with something a wee bit more interesting than two U-shaped six story buildings. Let's be known as a city with interesting architecture, not cookie cutter garbage.

May 5, 2026
at 9:18 PM

Brittany
37917

4-A-26-OB
Brittany (37917), May 5, 2026 at 10:22 PM

Please do not approve this development. It adds absolutely no character to Knoxville and will further degrades the city scape. The design needs to be completely redone.

May 5, 2026
at 10:22 PM

Douglas
37917

4-A-26-OB
Douglas (37917), May 6, 2026 at 10:45 AM

These plans are terrible. I agree with a previous comment which states that planning needs to insist on SW-5 and SW-6 zoning rules be complied with. There are very good reasons for these rules that were discussed with and approved by the community. This is an important and very prominent location that deserves special attention and long term thinking. I also didn't see any traffic planning associated with this development or reasoning why an active retirement community needs to be placed on top of a hill. Are there no more flat, street level locations in all of Knoxville?

May 6, 2026
at 10:45 AM

Joel
37921

4-A-26-OB
Joel (37921), May 6, 2026 at 11:26 AM

Whatever gets built on Kerbela Hill will dominate the view from almost everywhere downtown. The current plan looks like a prison crossed with a second-rate Motel 6, looming over a city that deserves far better. Knoxville deserves beautiful architecture that fits the character of downtown. This is not it.
The community already made the feedback clear: a site this visible cannot look like crap. Adding a pathway through the middle of the monstrosity does not fix the fact that it still looks like crap. This is not some cheap apartment complex in the middle of nowhere being peddled as luxury. It is one of the most important pieces of land in the city, and treating it this carelessly is insulting.
Deny this design. Hold the developers and the city to a higher standard. Build something on that hill that makes people look down Gay Street in wonder or at the very least, not in disgust.

May 6, 2026
at 11:26 AM

Dan
37920

4-A-26-OB
Dan (37920), May 7, 2026 at 1:52 PM

See attached pdf for comments
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260507135253.pdf

May 7, 2026
at 1:52 PM

Annabel
37920

4-A-26-OB
Annabel (37920), May 7, 2026 at 11:02 PM

I reside and work in South Knoxville and traverse the area around the proposed apartment site daily. The Sevier avenue corridor has been through a lot of changes over the past few years, but the proposed apartment complex on the Kerbela temple site is beyond overwhelming in the many ways it does not follow the South Waterfront plan. Additionally, the lack of consideration for the community is quite concerning. The sheer size of the complex in and of itself is the most distressing part of the proposal. The additional vehicle traffic it will bring to an already overwhelmed area is potentially crippling to the community. And there is no benefit that I have seen for the community.
Please put the brakes on this and encourage the developers to follow the code, follow the recommendations of the South Waterfront Advisory Group and have some consideration for our community. Thank you

May 7, 2026
at 11:02 PM

Mike
37920

4-A-26-OB
Mike (37920), May 9, 2026 at 11:39 AM

See attachment
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260509113914.pdf

May 9, 2026
at 11:39 AM

Rachel
37920

4-A-26-OB
Rachel (37920), May 10, 2026 at 12:32 AM

Attached are comments from the South Waterfront Advisory and Advocacy Group. Individual signatures are the end of the document.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260510003227.pdf

May 10, 2026
at 12:32 AM

Debbie
37920

4-A-26-OB
Debbie (37920), May 10, 2026 at 6:48 AM

This area does not have the infrastructure to support more housing. With the location and the closure of the Gay Street Bridge, 90% of traffic created by this development will use Henley Street. Henley Street is already a source of extreme traffic congestion. This will make that substantially worse.

May 10, 2026
at 6:48 AM

Stewart
37920

4-A-26-OB
Stewart (37920), May 10, 2026 at 8:07 AM

The applicant was fully aware of the South Waterfront Form Based Code when they developed their plan. They chose to ignore that code. Hours of work by many community members went into developing this code. Once we allow variances it will be harder to deny the next request. Soon the code will not matter at all and the next time the city asks for community input it will be met with little or no response.
Please deny these variances for the Kerbela site.

May 10, 2026
at 8:07 AM

Katherine
37920

4-A-26-OB
Katherine (37920), May 10, 2026 at 9:50 AM

I want to request that you postpone the next step in the process of deciding what to do about the Kerbela Temple site and its eventual fate. More time is needed so that the community and the developer can continue working on proposed design elements that currently don't meet the objectives and intent of the Vision Plan and the southwest-Knoxville code.
Thank you,
Katherine H.

May 10, 2026
at 9:50 AM

Louise
37920

4-A-26-OB
Louise (37920), May 10, 2026 at 9:52 AM

I respectfully request to postpone so that the community can keep working with the developer on design elements that don't meet the objectives and intent of the Vision Plan and SW code.

May 10, 2026
at 9:52 AM

Tim
37920

4-A-26-OB
Tim (37920), May 10, 2026 at 12:30 PM

Please do not allow this building to be built at this site. As a lifelong south Knoxville resident who grew up in Island Home and still lives here, South Knoxville is extremely important to me and the city of Knoxville is as well. I believe that this plot of land would serve the city much better as a park, art center, community center, over-look botanical garden etc..ANYTHING but another apartment building. We have way too many apartment buildings going up in south Knoxville and it is ruining the place that I have called home since the 60's. I ask again that you please reconsider what can be built at this site, as this has the potential to help and benefit the community if the right decision is made. Thank you for your time.

May 10, 2026
at 12:30 PM

Connie
37920

4-A-26-OB
Connie (37920), May 10, 2026 at 2:26 PM

As a resident of South Knoxville, I urge you to postpone this item to allow for more time for conversations and collaborations between the community and the developers, CR-Endeavors. More time for meaningful negotiations will contribute to making sure this extraordinary property is developed in a manner that conforms to and honors the South Waterfront Vision Plan.
Please carefully the review and consider the recommendations of the South Waterfront Advisory and and Advocacy Group. This group has done the "hard lifting" representing and listening to the community's concerns.
Thank you for your service to our community.

May 10, 2026
at 2:26 PM

Kathleen
37920

4-A-26-OB
Kathleen (37920), May 11, 2026 at 10:16 AM

Please heed the South Knoxville community's plea for a slowdown on this process. The code was created for a reason, and many citizens worked very hard to help us plan for the future. This undue haste is a slap in the face to all those citizens. We're pleased that the developers have (upon prodding) been willing to meet with residents and adjust plans somewhat. More needs to be done. Thank you! Katie H.

May 11, 2026
at 10:16 AM

Melissa
37917

4-A-26-OB
Melissa (37917), May 11, 2026 at 11:13 AM

A comment critique of public engagement on development projects is that it fails to engage potential residents who would benefit from the project, biasing against the project. I would love to live in this area in a 55+ community (I'm currently eligible and very interested!) that is designed for pedestrian, bus and bicycle transportation. I would go car-free if I lived there. I am a potential future beneficiary of a Yes on this. I disagree with the comments that raise the issue of traffic or assert no more multi-family housing should be built.
However, I agree with the points raised in many of these comments about the visual prominence of the site and its importance to future designs according with the VP. I support the statement submitted by the South Waterfront Advisory and Advocacy Group on May 10.
I want to live here, but I want it to be as good for the community as possible because I want my future neighborhood to be strong, knitted together, and appreciative of the building where I live.

May 11, 2026
at 11:13 AM

Kevin
37918

4-A-26-OB
Kevin (37918), May 11, 2026 at 1:11 PM

Knox Community Planning Alliance agrees and concurs with the South Waterfront Advisory and Advocacy Group request to postpone so they can continue to work with the developer on this project.

May 11, 2026
at 1:11 PM

Kent
37918

4-A-26-OB
Kent (37918), May 11, 2026 at 1:47 PM

I love that South Knoxville continues to grow through commercial and residential development. However, from what I've seen, it does not appear that there is anywhere close to adequate parking allotted for this particular development. Until someone can solve that issue (which is already a massive issue along Sevier Ave), I am not in favor of the development.
Further congestion without solutions is not a net win for the Old Sevier community.

May 11, 2026
at 1:47 PM

Lindsey
37920

4-A-26-OB
Lindsey (37920), May 11, 2026 at 3:31 PM

The South Waterfront Vision Plan was created through extensive public engagement, and projects on major gateway sites like this should uphold that vision.
This development is too large and exceeds the intended block size. Its setbacks and gated design isolate it from the surrounding community, conflicting with the connectivity and accessibility goals of the Vision Plan and form-based code. The project also lacks pedestrian engagement. There is no ground-floor retail, and large blank walls and parking garage frontage create an inactive and potentially unsafe pedestrian environment at night.
Additionally, there has been no traffic study presented for a project of this scale, and there appears to be little meaningful public access to the property. I urge the Planning Commission to seriously consider the concerns and recommendations of the South Waterfront Advisory and Advocacy group before approving this project.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260511153142.pdf

May 11, 2026
at 3:31 PM

Josh
37917

4-A-26-OB
Josh (37917), May 11, 2026 at 7:49 PM

I am not a resident of south Knoxville currently, and haven't been in about 15 years. I have lived in Knoxville since 2005, and have seen quite a bit of change in this city. Much of this change has been good, but much has not. A trend in the past several years has been to allow developments like this, and I do not believe this has been positive. I have been relatively pleased by the sprucing up Sevier Ave has received, and I believe this development would NOT be a positive addition, in fact quite the opposite. As such, I hope that this variance is not approved and that this project is not approved.

May 11, 2026
at 7:49 PM

Alan
37920

4-A-26-OB
Alan (37920), May 11, 2026 at 9:35 PM

Please don't ignore or amend the rules set forth by planners for the South Waterfront. Allowance of a gated development with ignored setbacks is especially distasteful'

May 11, 2026
at 9:35 PM

Martha
37920

4-A-26-OB
Martha (37920), May 12, 2026 at 8:07 AM

From a design standpoint this could be improved by taking the west wing of the building (motel 6 design), moving it to the west and make it a tower which is allowed in the SW-6 zone. This would allow for a public plaza aligned with the Gay street bridge. The building could include a community room that can be open to the public on occasion like the Kerbela is now.

I like that this is geared to seniors but some seniors might prefer to live in a tower. It alleviates the monotony of the plan as presented. Most importantly it allows for a plaza with a sweeping vista of downtown that could be a showpiece for the city.

May 12, 2026
at 8:07 AM

Davis
37919

4-A-26-OB
Davis (37919), May 12, 2026 at 8:56 AM

I support this project. i think it will be great for Knoxville at large & South Knoxville specifically.

May 12, 2026
at 8:56 AM

Melanie
37918

4-A-26-OB
Melanie (37918), May 12, 2026 at 11:05 AM

I am writing in support of residential development at 315 Kerbela Ave, while raising specific concerns about the adequacy of the parking and traffic flow provisions in the current proposal.

The plan proposes 228-235 parking spaces for 217-223 residential units, approximately one space per unit. This ratio does not appear to account for visitor parking or real-world usage patterns, and the plan does not include a traffic or parking demand study to support these numbers. The shortfall in on-site parking will likely push resident and visitor vehicles onto the surrounding neighborhood streets.

This is a particular concern for Dawson St., where City Church Knoxville operates a parking lot that serves families with young children on Sunday mornings and throughout the week. The entrance to that lot is on Dawson St., and increased cut-through traffic or competition for street parking in this area would directly affect safe access for families dropping off and picking up children.

The transportation diagram also does not clearly address how traffic will flow to and from the site during peak hours, nor how delivery vehicles, moving trucks, and emergency access will be managed given the grade changes and limited street widths in this corridor.

We would ask that the planning commission require a traffic impact study and parking demand analysis as conditions of approval, with particular attention to the impact on Dawson St. and adjacent residential streets.

May 12, 2026
at 11:05 AM

Nancy S
37920

4-A-26-OB
Nancy S (37920), May 12, 2026 at 11:07 AM

It is very important that this project comply with the South Waterfront codes. Since there are deficiencies in the proposal, this project should be postponed for the developer to work with the City and community groups to create a compliant project for such a prominent place.

I oppose including the use of the historic 'ghost steps' in any way. The steps should be preserved as an important beloved relic as they are. The property owner could/should apply for inclusion of the "steps to nowhere" on the National Registry of Historic Places. That would be a win/win because the property owner/developer would not have to include non-code compliant steps in the project while mollifying the citizens who demand that they be included.

Please postpone this.

May 12, 2026
at 11:07 AM

Colton
37920

4-A-26-OB
Colton (37920), May 12, 2026 at 11:38 AM

I have concerns about the project's potential impact on parking availability and traffic flow in the surrounding neighborhood. With over 200 residential units and approximately 228-235 parking spaces proposed , I am concerned that the on-site capacity will not adequately meet demand, which could lead to overflow parking on nearby streets. Additionally, the increased vehicle traffic may place added strain on already constrained roadways and affect the safety and character of the neighborhood.

May 12, 2026
at 11:38 AM

Mary Beth
37920

4-A-26-OB
Mary Beth (37920), May 12, 2026 at 1:01 PM

This is one of the most important sites in Knoxville and absolutely no variances should be allowed. The code is in place for a reason and this site, above all others, should be held in 100% compliance.

May 12, 2026
at 1:01 PM

Ann
37920

4-A-26-OB
Ann (37920), May 12, 2026 at 1:13 PM

I request that this proposal be delayed for additional input from the community and revised plans from the developer. I appreciate the South Waterfront zoning and vision and this proposal does not meet those requirements. And we should have learned from several ugly buildings on the south side of the river that variances are bad.

This hilltop is an important part of downtown Knoxville and the booming South Knoxville waterfront area. I would like to see something that reflects the uniqueness and artfulness of the Knoxville community rather than another huge apartment building. Surely there can be a plan that includes a welcoming feel to the public rather than a private secluded area. Other cities have such prominent hills be an asset for all citizens. Please work with the developers to be more creative. Thank you.

May 12, 2026
at 1:13 PM

Kat
37920

4-A-26-OB
Kat (37920), May 12, 2026 at 1:39 PM

I have sweet memories of sitting in the Shriners parking lot in the early morning of summer with my friends to watch the sunrise.

I love South knoxville. I think it's great that our community is expanding and so is the infrastructure to accommodate the community.

I love to see more spaces where all kinds of people from different walks of life can walk and bike around and enjoy nature and local businesses. This is the type of community and growth is something I want to be a part of.

This building plan seems squirrelly when it comes to working around city ordinances and has missed the mark of checking in with and hearing the voices of actual community ideas and opinions that will create the type of future we hope for in south knox.

Please don't sequester off this beautiful lot and turn it into something that keeps its residents separate. Please create a space where we can get to know residents and frequent local establishments and enjoy the view together.

May 12, 2026
at 1:39 PM

Aaron
37917

4-A-26-OB
Aaron (37917), May 12, 2026 at 1:43 PM

See attached.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260512134309.pdf

May 12, 2026
at 1:43 PM

Maggie
37920

4-A-26-OB
Maggie (37920), May 12, 2026 at 2:14 PM

I do not support the redevelopment in this proposed capacity and urge you to consider the viewscape. This architectural plan will not flow with the current vision for sevier ave and extends the already overly generic multistory development of the area to the west through chapman highway. Please consider requesting multi-use and multi-height development plans rather than two big tall blocks on this prominent Knoxville skyline location.

May 12, 2026
at 2:14 PM

Kevin
37920

4-A-26-OB
Kevin (37920), May 12, 2026 at 2:49 PM

I would like to share my support for the upcoming project at 315 Kerbela Avenue. I have called South Knoxville my home since 1981 when I started the 4th grade at Giffin Elementary School. I went to Giffin Elementary for 4th & 5th grade and then later on Graduated at South Young High School in 1989 while living on Earl Avenue.

I left for the United States Navy in 1989 and at that time South Knoxville was on the decline. Walking or riding a bike along Sevier Avenue was very dangerous , homes were not being maintained, and the area that I loved and called home had a very bad stigma. I would always here conversations of "stay out of South Knoxville".

Seeing the growth over the past 10 years and being able to be a part of the revitalization has brought me much joy and now seeing that South Knoxville is one of most desirable areas in Knoxville is amazing. I love going to Sevier Avenue to enjoy food & entertainment and I know that this new development will add so much value to South Knoxville, the waterfront, and the community overall.

May 12, 2026
at 2:49 PM

Cohl
37920

4-A-26-OB
Cohl (37920), May 12, 2026 at 2:55 PM

I am in full support of this development. For decades the property itself has provided little benefits to the general public and generated little revenue for the city, but that is about to change. This developer has clearly taken the South Knox community, and Knoxville as a whole, into consideration when designing these plans. The developer redesigned their project after 3 public meetings with the community (how many other developers in Knoxville have done that?). They have agreed to bring back the JFG sign, work with the city to provide walk ways leading to Kerns bakery (Kern's bakery owner has publicly states he is in full support of this development) and reduce the scale and size of the buildings after hearing public feedback. The site has serious topo and rock challenges that limit what a developer can do with the property which is why variances are needed. The shriner organization could have sold to a student housing developer or any other typical apartment developer but instead chose this buyer because they are building housing for seniors. The city has spent serious tax dollars on the bridge and sevier avenue street scape project. This project can help generate the revenue needed to pay that back.

May 12, 2026
at 2:55 PM

Amy
37923

4-A-26-OB
Amy (37923), May 12, 2026 at 3:05 PM

I was so excited to learn about the development of a 55+ community in downtown Knoxville. I respectfully request that the planning commission support this development.

This would allow my senior father the opportunity to downsize while remaining in the vibrant area he loves. He is a retired UT professor, and has invested and lived in downtown Knoxville for 40+ years. There are many like him who have invested in and live in the 4th and Gill and Park Ridge areas, and need to transition.

Regarding comments about increased traffic----this isn't student or young adult housing. Seniors are much less likely to drive. Professionally managed communities typically provide transportation via shuttles / small buses.

May 12, 2026
at 3:05 PM

Joshua
37920

4-A-26-OB
Joshua (37920), May 12, 2026 at 3:23 PM

I am a property owner and local developer who has built and owns a number of homes and developments in South Knoxville.
I am in favor of this development. We need to continue supporting new housing opportunities and local businesses along Sevier Avenue.
Adding a senior community will further cultivate the diverse age diversity and sense of community that makes South Knoxville such a special place.

May 12, 2026
at 3:23 PM

Marisa
37920

4-A-26-OB
Marisa (37920), May 12, 2026 at 3:34 PM

This new development will add a lot of value to South Knoxville, the waterfront, and the community overall. It seems the developer has even taken the community into consideration throughout this process such as bringing back the iconic JFG sign and providing walkways for easy access to other South Knox developments. I support the proposed development at 315 Kerbela Avenue and believe it would be a great addition to South Knox.

May 12, 2026
at 3:34 PM

Stephen
37920

4-A-26-OB
Stephen (37920), May 12, 2026 at 4:03 PM

Attached are comments from City Church, a direct neighbor of the Kerbela development.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260512160324.pdf

May 12, 2026
at 4:03 PM

Jeff
37920

4-A-26-OB
Jeff (37920), May 12, 2026 at 4:11 PM

I appreciate that the developers are open to adjustments, but we need to go further with this. I like how Gay and Kerns can be connected, but the building itself if so pitifully designed for Knoxville and its position on our city skyline. Break this building up, put a park overlooking the river, or make a tower to give height difference. Anything other than a 5 story mega block stretching the width of that hill. Knoxville has enough of those! Bring us something better that the city can be proud of at this downtown summit. And please be more intentional with the JFG sign if you are planning to utilize it.

May 12, 2026
at 4:11 PM

Cobren
37920

4-A-26-OB
Cobren (37920), May 12, 2026 at 8:52 PM

Generally, I like development.
I don't want the design to be haphazard.
I think there have been some really important aspects that have not been considered. Especially pertaining to the south water front plans.
Please postpone the meeting so that there is sufficient time to review all the plans.
We can come up with something special, but we need to proceed with care.

May 12, 2026
at 8:52 PM

Nancy S
37920

4-A-26-OB
Nancy S (37920), May 12, 2026 at 9:01 PM

The Board of Governors of the Island Home Park Neighborhood Association requests that the proposal be postponed to give the developer time to work with the City and the community to make sure the project meets the South Waterfront form based codes as well as the spirit of the Vision Plan. A traffic study is needed, also.

May 12, 2026
at 9:01 PM

Nathan
37920

4-A-26-OB
Nathan (37920), May 12, 2026 at 11:17 PM

I am a life long South Knoxville resident and have watched our little corner of the scruffy city grow immensely the last 10 years. Responsible growth is a net positive for our city. However, I do not believe a 55+ apartment building fits the spirit of The South Waterfront long term goals.

Here is what I would like to see change in the plan:
1. Remove the age requirement. We need a diverse citizenry with young adults, families, and seniors. Age restrictions are a form of reverse discrimination and I do not think we should perpetuate the practice.
2. Require a public accessible overlook area to preserve the amazing view of downtown and the river for all to enjoy.
3. Require residents to use the Kay st access point and do not connect the parking lot to Mimosa or Sevier Ave. We need to continue building pedestrian friendly zones on Sevier Ave. and routing more cars that direction will go against this goal.
4. Limit surface parking. Require a garage or structure to avoid large paved areas that will trap heat.
5. Trees. Plant as many native trees as possible under the guidance of a qualified arborist.

Some of these items are addressed in the plan, but I want to reiterate their importance.
Lastly, in general, this development will be seen by Everyone looking across the river into South Knoxville. Please treat our home with as much care as we do and make it something we are proud of.

May 12, 2026
at 11:17 PM

Brianna
37920

4-A-26-OB
Brianna (37920), May 13, 2026 at 6:57 AM

We do NOT need any more development, apartments, etc. You all are crowding us who were born and raised in South Knox. I can barely get to work now without sitting in traffic or waiting on construction. All the development is actually ruining nature.

May 13, 2026
at 6:57 AM

Amy
37920

4-A-26-OB
Amy (37920), May 13, 2026 at 7:22 AM

This project might seem to solve one problem (lack of available housing) but creates more problems. 1) Increasing traffic in an already congested area, 2) Inaccessibility for pedestrians to and by the surrounding community, 3) Lack of equitable access for persons with disabilities (which is especially important in a 55+ community), and 4) Disrespect for the community that thoughtfully planned for the future of South Knoxville. Surely there is another viable plan that doesn't create more issues.

May 13, 2026
at 7:22 AM

Linda
37920

4-A-26-OB
Linda (37920), May 13, 2026 at 8:21 AM

I appreciate the work that the developer of the Kerbela site (South Waterfront) has done to involve the community in their plans. However, more work needs to be done to make it better. This site is too visible and too important to not get this right. I respectfully ask you to please postpone tomorrow's decision to give the developer and the community more time to work together.

May 13, 2026
at 8:21 AM

christie
37920

4-A-26-OB
christie (37920), May 13, 2026 at 9:30 AM

The proposed development is not aligned with the previously approved south waterfront vision and plan. It's also not very public-friendly, as currently designed and planned, but could become more so with more time and input from the surrounding community. Not enough time and opportunities have been provided for the community to appropriately weigh in and be heard. Please postpone any final decisions on this development to allow further discussion with additional stakeholders. This development sits at a critical location for south Knoxville at the intersection of Henley/Chapman and the river, and full consideration should be given to such a significant development.

May 13, 2026
at 9:30 AM

Gary
37924

4-A-26-OB
Gary (37924), May 13, 2026 at 10:12 AM

I would like to suggest obtaining the land between council place and Sevier Ave. Reconstruct that part of Sevier Ave into a two way street with a turning lane onto and off of Dawson Street. Block Council place from vehicle traffic altogether and make it into part of the greenway system connecting to the Gay Street Bridge as part of this development.

May 13, 2026
at 10:12 AM

Allen
37920

4-A-26-OB
Allen (37920), May 13, 2026 at 10:13 AM

Please see attached
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260513101344.pdf

May 13, 2026
at 10:13 AM

Mark
37920

4-A-26-OB
Mark (37920), May 13, 2026 at 10:18 AM

Infrastructure must come before more housing developments. Roads and traffic in South Knoxville are already overloaded, and adding another 200 housing units will only make congestion worse and the area harder to access and enjoy.

There is also understandable skepticism about promises that these developments will remain Ã¢ÂÂactive 55+Ã¢ÂÂ communities. We have already seen a similar situation with the retirement community on John Sevier Highway, where rezoning was approved based on one proposal, only for the property to later become a standard housing development. That precedent raises legitimate concerns about long-term accountability and whether the original intent will actually be maintained.

Before approving additional housing projects, the city and county should first prioritize road improvements, traffic planning, and infrastructure expansion. Growth without infrastructure planning only creates more congestion, safety concerns, and strain on existing residents. Responsible development means ensuring roads, traffic management, and public services are in place before adding hundreds of new housing units.

May 13, 2026
at 10:18 AM

Terry
37920

4-A-26-OB
Terry (37920), May 13, 2026 at 10:21 AM

As one of the founders and a former representative on the South Knoxville Neighborhood and Business Coalition that gave input on the South Waterfront project, I strongly urge you to support SWAAG's request for another postponement on this agenda item. There are many parts of this proposal that still need to be addressed by CR Endeavors, to ensure that the community will see fruition and not left with empty promises. So please, I urge postponement on this matter.

May 13, 2026
at 10:21 AM

Jessica
37917

4-A-26-OB
Jessica (37917), May 13, 2026 at 10:54 AM

I am writing in opposition of the Kerbela Development Proposal on the South Knoxville waterfront. The last several years have brought numerous apartments and townhouse style homes, most of them being unsightly and thrown together. Aside from this project breaking codes, the design is an eyesore. Additionally this will cause traffic (which is already bad) to be a nightmare. Why is our city okay with the idea of allowing an out of town developer to break the codes our citizens worked so hard to create with a dismal building that in 15 years will look like garbage? Please listen to your citizens and do not let this pass. We love our waterfront and skyline. This is one of the few beautiful features of Knoxville we have left. Also, please leave the ghost steps as they're a part of Knoxville's history. Instead of this apartment complex, a park would fit wonderfully in this space. It would be appreciated by everyone and not create a worse environment for those in South Knoxville. Thank you for your time.

May 13, 2026
at 10:54 AM

Zoe
37939

4-A-26-OB
Zoe (37939), May 13, 2026 at 12:04 PM

Bike Walk Knoxville is in support of SWAAG's position on this project. Please see attached comments.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260513120431.pdf

May 13, 2026
at 12:04 PM

Pamela
37920

4-A-26-OB
Pamela (37920), May 13, 2026 at 12:23 PM

Bottom ground-level floor should be commercial space to be open to the public. Private residences and private communal spaces can then be built on-top of these public-facing commercial spaces, but no exceptions should be allowed for height for the complex itself, as its view should not impede the view of historic civil war sites directly across Gay Street Bridge. Whatever monolithic statue/structure for elevator that is placed in direct view of pedestrians on Gay Street should be agreed upon by members of the City of Knoxville community.

May 13, 2026
at 12:23 PM

Kellie
37920

4-A-26-OB
Kellie (37920), May 13, 2026 at 1:25 PM

The Kerbela Shriner Temple currently sits on a key location on the edge of South Knoxville and downtown Knoxville. This key location demands the highest level of scrutiny for any new development.

While an active senior living development is not an issue inherently, the manner in which CR Endeavors has approached this is. The facade in the plans does not fit the style of long-lasting development that makes our downtown so inviting and valuable. The massing of the building exceeds the maximum perimeter and footprint in either of the districts the parcels belong to. Considering the elevated location of this site, this is a factor that should not be allowed under any circumstances.

Because of its key location and proximity to downtown, Kerns, and the Art Trail, this site should prioritize public engagement and amenities, public passage and connectivity, and areas that invite leisurely public activities. We should not allow our city to develop into something that is not usable by its people. Development in this location should inherently carry those core values, and any new development should aspire, at minimum, to be as good as, if not better, than the development around it. Promoting apartment deserts with no retail, construction that is an eyesore to any passerby, lack of public outdoor greenspace, and large quantities of traffic in an already congested area creates an unlivable, non-functioning city.

See attached PDF for full comments.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260513132545.pdf

May 13, 2026
at 1:25 PM

Logan
37902

4-A-26-OB
Logan (37902), May 13, 2026 at 6:13 PM

This boring rip off of a kitschy Sevierville condo building from the early 2000's will be such a terrible backdrop to Gay St. Why are they using oversized gable roofs and a stone veneer over storefront? All the precedents they used fit in much better than this will and it looks nothing like those, it also looks nothing like what the SW plan envisioned for this area.

Alternative compliance should be allowed when complying with the vision of the form based code requires an alternative approach. We can do better.

May 13, 2026
at 6:13 PM

Rachel
37918

4-A-26-OB
Rachel (37918), May 13, 2026 at 7:06 PM

We dont need more apartment complexes here! The traffic is already bad enough. People keep promising responsible growth, this isn't really responsible growth. The infrastructure cant even take it as it is. This needs to stop.

May 13, 2026
at 7:06 PM

Whitney
37920

4-A-26-OB
Whitney (37920), May 13, 2026 at 7:30 PM

Please allow for a postponement so that SWAAG and the developer have an opportunity to address all the issues that are so important to the neighborhood.

This property is unique and how the final plan looks can set a precedence for future projects.

Let's make sure we get it right. Thank you for your continued commitment to thoughtful planning and community input.

May 13, 2026
at 7:30 PM

Robert
37932

5-B-26-DP
Robert (37932), May 13, 2026 at 8:39 PM

The case notes state "The rear lot (Lot 2R3) will have access to Harrison Springs Lane as well.

Which resident(s) on Harrison Springs Lane will be having an access point through their yard? Or will the access point be going through Harrison Springs HOA owned property? How can this access be given when the property being reviewed does not even have contact with Harrison Springs Lane? Have the homeowners who border this property been contacted regarding this access?

If the statement above was listed in error, then what other statements in the case notes are also in error?

May 13, 2026
at 8:39 PM

Robert
37932

5-B-26-DP
Robert (37932), May 13, 2026 at 8:54 PM

All properties along Harrison Springs Lane are located downhill from proposed site plan.

In the attached document, blue arrows show current flow of storm water runoff. As of May 13, 2026, natural barriers have already been removed. Currently, no stormwater management plan is in place. What is the mitigation plan to prevent storm water from flooding and damaging homes along Harrison Springs Lane?

Proposed easement and 2-way road (per conversation w/ property owners in early May 2026) will be elevated above the backyards of Harrison Springs residents, many of whom have children playing in their backyard. Proposed road maybe within 5 feet of residents' backyards. Some residents have had all natural barriers removed between the easement and their backyard. What is the mitigation plan to prevent vehicles from crashing into backyards w/ children playing? Can residents request an additional 50 ft setback?

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260513205438.pdf

May 13, 2026
at 8:54 PM

Justin
37932

5-B-26-DP
Justin (37932), May 13, 2026 at 11:51 PM

I am voicing concerns with the proposed development having access to Harrison Springs Lane. There is currently access to Shaeffer Road for both of the proposed units on the existing property. There is no reason to remove trees to gain access to Harrison Springs Lane. This will also create safety issues with the amount of construction vehicles that will be using the one entrance and exit intended and designed for the 167 residents of Harrison Springs Subdivision. Please do not approve access to Harrison Springs Lane.

May 13, 2026
at 11:51 PM

Joshua
37932

5-B-26-DP
Joshua (37932), May 14, 2026 at 9:17 AM

I have major concerns about this addition. It will literally put a road 5 feet off of my back yard - a safety issue with cars driving for my children and family. I think this road needs be redirected to the existing driveway. It appears the family does not want the traffic at their house and are redirecting to our yards. Also, they have begun work before this meeting - even before the SWPP protection was in place. Please consider this. Thank you!

May 14, 2026
at 9:17 AM

Joshua
37932

5-B-26-DP
Joshua (37932), May 14, 2026 at 10:07 AM

I'm not asking for denial - just that these questions get answered before permits are issued.

The slope analysis shows 7.4 of 7.5 acres is in the HP (Hillside Protection) area, including 1.3 acres of 25-40% slope. Our homes sit at the base of this hill. The wooded slope currently absorbs and slows rainfall; clearing and grading will change that. The staff report calls the impact "minimal disturbance" but doesn't specify what's planned on the steeper slopes. I'd ask that the applicant be required to detail what HP area disturbance is planned and how drainage will be managed to protect the homes downhill.

The plan calls for direct road access to Harrison Springs Lane, already the main road in and out of our neighborhood for residents and a substantial number of delivery traffic and other service workers. The estimated 28 daily vehicle trips plus construction traffic will add to that load. Has the access point been formally approved by Knox County Engineering and Public Works under Condition 3?

Finally, the plat notes the JPE access road won't be maintained by the city or county. Who is responsible for it? An unmaintained private road on a steep slope is also a drainage concern - degraded pavement and shoulders can channel water directly toward neighboring properties. That needs a clear answer before approval.

May 14, 2026
at 10:07 AM

Kim
37932

5-B-26-DP
Kim (37932), May 14, 2026 at 10:32 AM

I am concerned about the drainage issues that may arise. The homes in Harrison Springs sit at the base of the hill that will be regraded. Right now the slope is wooded, and the trees, root systems, and leaf cover absorb and slow rainfall before it reaches our properties. I would like to make sure the applicant submits a plan to ensure the drainage will be managed and the Harrison Springs residents will not have run off from the project.

My second concern is the use of Harrison Springs Lane as an access road. This is already the primary road in and out of our neighborhood and sees heavy use from residents and delivery traffic throughout the day. The estimated 28 daily vehicle trips from this development will add to that, on top of construction traffic. I am concerned about the safety of our residents, especially children, with the high traffic volume expected during construction.

Lastly, there has been a lot of this proposed construction that has already started and many trees have been cut and grading has been done. I do not understand how this is allowed to happen before the proposal has been approved, but I know the residents that live directly below the access road have major concerns about erosion.

Please take the existing residents of Harrison Springs into consideration before moving along to ensure that our property will not be affected any more than it has been. Thank you for your time.

May 14, 2026
at 10:32 AM

Ian
37920

4-A-26-OB
Ian (37920), May 14, 2026 at 10:43 AM

It is very important that this project comply with the South Waterfront codes. I agree with the many local longtime residents of south Knoxville that are concerned about safety, traffic, parking, congestion, & the generic design that is not deserving of such prime real estate. Those of us who were here before covid are not happy with outside developers building their crappy apartments and overpriced homes here for quick cash. I'm also reading that it is walled off? If that's true a gated community atop our best hill overlook is not welcome. The steps should lead up to a park/public space, not private property. Please stop allowing developers to hack us up. I understand that CR Endeavors has been listening so far, and they need to slow it down further. I'm sure they can do business elsewhere if it's not to their liking. Also, a traffic study is needed, come on.

May 14, 2026
at 10:43 AM

Gina
37902

5-B-26-DP
Gina (37902), May 14, 2026 at 10:50 AM

I am reaching out as my constituents are concerned at this location. I am not against this project, but I do have a few conditions I would like to be added on this location.

I would like lots 61-67 ( in Harrison Springs) to be protected as trees have already been removed. I feel this will cause erosion . I would like the applicant to provide a buffer where natural buffer was removed. I would like the buffer to include 6 ft green giants offset every 6 feet along the property line.

The next condition is I would ask the access would only be Schaeffer Rd. The neighborhood is not comfortable with connections. This is a well established neighborhood and since there is already access to Schaeffer Rd. we request that be the only location for access.
Thank you for your consideration and making this a successful project for the applicant and the existing neighbors.
Gina Oster, Knox County Commission Chair

May 14, 2026
at 10:50 AM

Thomas
37932

5-B-26-DP
Thomas (37932), May 14, 2026 at 10:53 AM

I am writing to formally and vehemently object to the proposed development plan that includes routing an access road through our existing neighborhood for the benefit of a completely separate development. This proposal is unacceptable and would cause serious and irreversible harm to our community, our property values, our quality of life, and most importantly, the safety of our children.

Since this message box permits only a brief comment, I kindly ask you to examine the attached PDF file that reflects the opinions of all my friends and neighbors!

We strongly urge the planning commission to reject this proposal in its entirety and require the developer to find alternative access solutions that do not burden and endanger an established residential neighborhood. There is overwhelming opposition to this proposal from affected homeowners, and we fully expect our concerns to be taken seriously. This development access plan must NOT move forward!!!

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260514105303.pdf

May 14, 2026
at 10:53 AM

Mark
37920

4-A-26-OB
Mark (37920), May 14, 2026 at 11:43 AM

I attended the meeting with the developer at the Kerbela site and agree with all the concerns expressed in the SWAAG document. This highly visible property deserves a more carefully worked out plan that is in line with the South Waterfront zoning code and Vision Plan. Please grant a postponement of CR-Endeavor's proposal to allow further planning and community input.

May 14, 2026
at 11:43 AM

Robert
37932

5-B-26-DP
Robert (37932), May 14, 2026 at 12:14 PM

Grading for the easement has already begun. Attached are photos showing the proposed access to Harrison Springs Lane and the concerns for stormwater plans. Existing homeowners already have stormwater challenges due to slopes from adjacent property.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260514121402.pdf

May 14, 2026
at 12:14 PM

Blair
37932

5-B-26-DP
Blair (37932), May 14, 2026 at 12:16 PM

Attached are some of my concerns as an owner/resident of Harrison Springs lane backing up against 1908 Schaeffer Road.

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260514121659.pdf

May 14, 2026
at 12:16 PM

Robert
37932

5-B-26-DP
Robert (37932), May 14, 2026 at 12:23 PM

Attached letter from Harrison Springs residents with their concerns.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260514122324.pdf

May 14, 2026
at 12:23 PM

Steven
37923

6-C-26-RZ
Steven (37923), May 20, 2026 at 7:38 AM

Emphasis should be placed on improving the residences along Dutchtown Road with a definite limit on the number of homes permitted. Under no circumstances should the Commission permit more than four units per acre. High density residential (such as apartment units) would negatively affect the infrastructure of the area.

May 20, 2026
at 7:38 AM

Ray
37923

6-C-26-RZ
Ray (37923), May 21, 2026 at 9:54 AM

Adding high density housing along this stretch of Dutchtown Road simply adds to the already increasing traffic volume the current residents are experiencing. In addition, putting this development across the road from one of the entrances to Christian Academy school can lead to further traffic problems during special events. Finally, although it doesn't happen often, this area tends to collect standing water during periods of heavy rain and I'm wondering how further development will affect this issue.

May 21, 2026
at 9:54 AM

Margaret
37923

6-C-26-RZ
Margaret (37923), May 25, 2026 at 9:56 AM

I have lived at my home in Dutchtown Harbor Subdivision since 1996 and have seen two major floods that caused extensive problems for my subdivision. After the first flood in the mid-nineties, Dutchtown Road was flooded at our original entrance that caused that major road to be closed for several weeks, and a lot of our property was also flooded. Sandbags prevented home damage. Subsequently the road was raised several feet that closed that entrance and a large retaining wall was built by the county at the side of our common property between us and CAK. This was supposed to prevent future flooding. Raising the street has prevented Dutchtown Road from flooding but in 2019 our property was flooded again, this time causing the flooding of two of our homes and major flooding on Saint Thomas and several of our homeowners' property. There has also been continuing construction of more homes/townhomes/apartments along Dutchtown very close our subdivision with more land currently being cleared for more townhomes. All this construction decreases land area that would help with water runoff, and I have not seen any improvements for better drainage. I am very concerned that construction of multiple duplexes will greatly increase the chances of flooding of our property in the near future. Please address our infrastructure needs before approving any more construction.

May 25, 2026
at 9:56 AM

Kimberly
37923

6-C-26-RZ
Kimberly (37923), May 26, 2026 at 3:47 PM

As a resident of the Gulf Park Subdivision, I am hesitant of this rezoning and proposed usage. I use Dutchtown Road each day as I take my child to and from CAK. I use the Academy Way entrance at least twice a day, if not more. As I exit the Gulf Park neighborhood off of Sanders Road each morning and afternoon and turn left onto Dutchtown there is already a myriad of traffic concerns - one in particular with the house that is almost directly across from Sanders Road. Honestly, there are just a lot of people using this road to get to different schools and to Pellissippi Parkway.

The new duplexes/townhomes being built further down the road along with new apartments that will only increase the traffic onto Dutchtown. Currently, there is not a traffic light on Dutchtown Road from Cedar Bluff Road until you get to Pellissippi Parkway. (2.2 miles) Potentially adding 12 more dwellings onto Dutchtown Road, especially right in front of Academy Way, is only going to increase the traffic load onto an already heavily traversed area.

I'm also concerned with flooding. In 2019 and 2020, Cedar Bluff Road and Dutchtown Road saw significant flooding. The latest flood risk assessment was completed in 1999. Further studies need to be completed before anymore development.

May 26, 2026
at 3:47 PM

Liz
37923

6-C-26-RZ
Liz (37923), May 27, 2026 at 1:35 PM

Dutchtown does not need anymore developments! Traffic is already too high with all of the schools in the area and we don't need apartments here!! Furthermore, this area already has a problem with flooding and all this will do is displace more water and cause more issues!

May 27, 2026
at 1:35 PM

Chad
37923

6-C-26-RZ
Chad (37923), June 4, 2026 at 11:09 AM

How future drainage and where it would drain to needs to be considered in an area with poor drainage and a history of flooding so nearby houses are not flooded and damaged. See pdf attached.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260604110927.pdf

June 4, 2026
at 11:09 AM

Jan
37932

5-B-26-DP
Jan (37932), June 4, 2026 at 7:43 PM

have major concerns about this addition. My property is lot 67 and the road/driveway will literally run along the length of my entire back yard - a safety issue with cars driving as well the natural barrier of trees which were all knocked down over a month ago.. I also have concerns about possible erosion and drainage that could occur during the construction and the future. I think this road needs be redirected to the existing driveway. It appears the family does not want the traffic at their house and are redirecting to our yards. Please consider the possibility of moving the road further away from our homes along the Harrison Springs Lane properties that are adjacent to this construction. Thank you.

June 4, 2026
at 7:43 PM

7-B-26-RZ

Chase
37917

7-B-26-RZ
Chase (37917), June 5, 2026 at 8:01 AM

Industrial mixed used is great, but multi family rentals is not what this neighborhood needs. Based on community interactions that I have had, I recognize that people want homeowners; individuals who have a vested interest in the community. Renters often do not have this attachment, and do not represent the wishes of the community in both aesthetics and local integrity.

I'm actually familiar with the builder, and am also cognizant of the needs of rental properties to accommodate the expanding population. But low effort multi family homes are not the solution. Over the last 5 years I have seen this area grow into a really great community that is respecting the land and each other. I have identified this as the property owners efforts and wishes.

June 5, 2026
at 8:01 AM

Louise
37920

4-A-26-OB
Louise (37920), June 5, 2026 at 6:05 PM

Please require this project to adhere to the community guidelines in all ways, especially providing -N/S as well as E/W public pathways within the project. These pathways could utilize a pedestrian bridge partnership with the city that would help the walking/biking population reach Kerns and the Rail Trail. Please, City of Knoxville participate in this from the outset instead of making this a future improvement that might never happen.

-Some first floor retail/food spaces would be lovely. Other apartment projects in the area have implemented this successfully.
-An exterior design and finish material commensurate with the high profile of this location. This project will be front and center in our cityscape.

I am very excited to welcome a cutting edge 55+ rental opportunity to the south shore. It is a great idea so let's make them build the best version for us.

June 5, 2026
at 6:05 PM

Annabel
37920

4-A-26-OB
Annabel (37920), June 5, 2026 at 8:36 PM

I am commenting once again as I don't see any of the major concerns raised by community members being addressed in the revised plans. If the developers truly want to be part of our community, they will follow the South Waterfront code. If they continue to try to get around the code, the Planning Commission needs to deny their petition.

June 5, 2026
at 8:36 PM

Maggie
37920

4-A-26-OB
Maggie (37920), June 6, 2026 at 8:14 AM

I don't support the development moving ahead before a traffic study is completed in this key area of S Knox and recommend the planning commission require the development to complete a review of the impact on traffic flow and safety. Further, please consider alternatives to the size of this development. The placement will be extremely impactful and shorter units should be considered.

June 6, 2026
at 8:14 AM

Lisa
37923

6-C-26-RZ
Lisa (37923), June 7, 2026 at 8:42 AM

I am a concerned property owner that this will affect because our property backs up to the proposed rezoning area. My concerns are for water drainage and barriers to protect our property. How will the drainage be addressed especially since in 2019 the flood waters were well into our property, which took days if not weeks to fully resolve. Nothing has been addressed about those issues and to now propose to build multiple units along that area is a HUGE concern. Dutchtown can not take more concentration of housing along this area with 2 private schools that release onto dutchtown near this location and multiple new properties being built not even mentioning the huge apartment complex that is being built just a short distance down the road. The infrastructure of this area is being pushed beyond its limits already without adding the potential for more units to be developed in an already heavily traveled road. I believe approving this land for residential building will not improve our area and will only cause more issues. Please take our concerns to heart as property owners that will be directly affected by the rezoning decision.

June 7, 2026
at 8:42 AM

Ann
37920

4-A-26-OB
Ann (37920), June 7, 2026 at 1:00 PM

Once again, this proposal is for a massive private development on a prominent hill in South Knoxville. It will benefit the developers and perhaps the residents but it is not of benefit to the citizens of Knoxville. Instead of adding beauty and access to a large area currently under-used, it will stress city services including transportation, stormwater, waste, lighting and others by unplanned growth. It will not provide a cure for the current middle and lower class housing crisis. The view from downtown and the Gay Street bridge should be welcoming and have the tree canopy the city says it want to maintain or create. The public should have access to the riverfront by more than an asphalt walkway.

June 7, 2026
at 1:00 PM

7-B-26-UR

Gary
37932

7-B-26-UR
Gary (37932), June 7, 2026 at 1:41 PM

I hope you are doing well. I am writing in concer over the expansion of Vulcan. I live in Hickory Meadows subdivision and my home between purchase price and improvements is pushing 500,000.00 in investment. There are roughly 100 houses in this subdivision alone. That is potential of 50,000,000.00 in economic damage just to home owners, which no one can afford. Add in the reduction of property tax revenue and other financial damages. It will reduce/destroy air quality, my house is a year old and is caked with dust. Can't imagine how much worse it will get. Silica is lung damaging, causing a host of severe medical issues from lung cancer to COPD. Simply put, Knox County has grown to much to keep a health and property risk such as Vulcan running much less allowing them to expand. Farragut and Hardin Valley are two of the most affluent parts of Knox County. Significant invest from the state, county, businesses and home owners will be eliminated by the destruction this will cause to our communities. We beg this not be permitted to proceed. Thank you.

June 7, 2026
at 1:41 PM

Rachel
37920

4-A-26-OB
Rachel (37920), June 8, 2026 at 2:54 AM

Attached are comments from the South Waterfront Advisory and Advocacy Group on the revised proposal submitted to the PC for the June, 2026 meeting. Individual signatures are at the end of the document.

South Waterfront Advisory and Advocacy Group

June 8, 2026
at 2:54 AM

Stewart
ce

4-A-26-OB
Stewart (ce), June 8, 2026 at 12:08 PM

The revised plan provided by the developer has failed to address the concerns of our South Knoxville community. There is no public north south passage, there is no ground level accommodation for retail and the size of the development exceeds the spirit of the SWFBC. The refusal of the developers to engage with the community does not bode well for future integration into the wider community. For all practical purposes this development will be a gated community. By allowing this development to move forward will encourage other developers to ignore the SWFBC. I understand that South Knoxville is not represented on the PC but I am hopeful the members of the PC will consider the wishes of the residents and deny this development as submitted.

June 8, 2026
at 12:08 PM

Ann
37920

4-A-26-OB
Ann (37920), June 8, 2026 at 1:04 PM

No variances!! The riverfront code was carefully developed to preserve some sanity regarding development next to the Tennessee river which is a unique feature of Knoxville and historically was the start of the city. The condos on the south side were granted way too many variances and they are not good looking. I am sorry to drive Neyland Drive and look across to see block structures with a bunch of windows. NO VARIANCES!

June 8, 2026
at 1:04 PM

Benjamin
37902

4-A-26-OB
Benjamin (37902), June 8, 2026 at 3:37 PM

Attached please find the following correspondence from Mr. Mullins regarding Agenda Item #12.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260608153752.pdf

June 8, 2026
at 3:37 PM

Zoe
37919

4-A-26-OB
Zoe (37919), June 8, 2026 at 4:09 PM

Please see attached comments on behalf of Bike Walk Knoxville.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260608160942.pdf

June 8, 2026
at 4:09 PM

Alan
37920

4-A-26-OB
Alan (37920), June 8, 2026 at 8:33 PM

As a 75 year old South Knoxvillian I recall a time when the 'ghost' steps leading to the Kerbela area actually led to homes of many of my friends. Some pathways even connected Sevier Ave to points near Kerns Bakery. I fear the design of the proposed building will prohibit pedestrian traffic. I would like for plans to include pedestrian access to the hill and beyond. I don't believe non-apartment dwellers will have access around the development as it is now designed. It is my understanding ground floor businesses are called for in the regulations for the project. Pedestrian traffic seems to be essential for the businesses to be successful. Thank you for the chance to express my opinion.

June 8, 2026
at 8:33 PM

Lindsey
37920

4-A-26-OB
Lindsey (37920), June 8, 2026 at 8:56 PM

I am submitting the attached comments from the South Waterfront Advisory & Advocacy Group in support of denying this application. The revised submission fails to address the core concerns raised by residents and stakeholders regarding public access, pedestrian connectivity, block size, future retail opportunities, and compatibility with the South Waterfront Vision Plan. I respectfully ask the Planning Commission to give these concerns substantial weight in its deliberations.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260608205649.pdf

June 8, 2026
at 8:56 PM

Rachel
37920

4-A-26-OB
Rachel (37920), June 8, 2026 at 11:18 PM

Attached are comments from the South Waterfront Advisory and Advocacy Group. I tried to submit these on Sunday, but apparently forgot the attachment.

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260608231845.pdf

South Waterfront Advisory and Advocacy Grou

June 8, 2026
at 11:18 PM

Debbie
37920

4-A-26-OB
Debbie (37920), June 9, 2026 at 8:04 AM

These revisions do not address the fundamental issues identified by the community. Granting any kind of exception renders the code moot and sets the precedent for any developer to ignore the code and just count on being granted a variance.

This area and the south Knoxville community does not have the infrastructure for this project, nor is it what was envisioned for the community.

Please deny the developer's request.

June 9, 2026
at 8:04 AM

Kat
37920

4-A-26-OB
Kat (37920), June 9, 2026 at 8:55 AM

I've reviewed the revised proposal for this development and I am disappointed in how it still fails to meet the codes that are in place to make sure that new construction will meet the needs of this community.

We actually live here, we want to build this community in a way that creates opportunities for connection and shared spaces.

We can't have this lack of consideration become the lackluster standard as this part of town continues to grow and change.

We have a real opportunity and responsibility to create something special together for a more sustainable future of our growing Knoxville. Let's at least try.

June 9, 2026
at 8:55 AM

Becky
37920

4-A-26-OB
Becky (37920), June 9, 2026 at 10:02 AM

I completely agree with the South Waterfront Advisory and Advocacy Group. The vision and spirit for the South Waterfront is not considered at all in this development. It is WAY to large, and would look like a monstrosity looking down from above from all vantage points. If it is something that is going to be built, there should not be ANY variances allowed. Speaking from experience living near the Livano Apartment complex, and how many variances were allowed by the BZA is disappointing. I've lived in large cities that do a better job at protecting their riverfronts and waterfronts in order for them to be enjoyed as open spaces for the public and not build apartment block after apartment block. I would like for this current plan to be disallowed and have them go back to the drawing board to create more open spaces and use for public access.

I also agree that a traffic study should be done BEFORE any approval, as I live on W Blount and can tell you from experience that traffic patterns should NOT be an afterthought and should be considered prior to any development approvals. They should also have plan improvements made prior to any plan development prior to additional traffic in order to respect those who area currently living in the neighborhood.

June 9, 2026
at 10:02 AM

Dan
37920

4-A-26-OB
Dan (37920), June 9, 2026 at 10:18 AM

1. The Developer's changes from the Admin Committee were very minor. The building as propose will still result in the loss of a scenic feature (Article 7.0.2.G.8.v), specifically the view from the Gay Street Bridge and Riverwalk. The horizontal and vertical massing can easily be mitigated by adding materials and colors to the east and west wings, and by not keeping the same colors and materials at consistent elevations. The project doesn't have to stick with the boring palate of tans and white. Please require at least one and preferably two additional colors, and two additional types of materials (perhaps appropriate shades of green and blue). These colors and materials can also be added to offset and emphasize the gable ends. The massing can also be somewhat offset by the addition of vertical projections at the roof level.

2. Don't be so repetitive with the location and sizing of the windows and the balconies. They can be significantly different across the north elevation.

June 9, 2026
at 10:18 AM

Lynette
37920

4-A-26-OB
Lynette (37920), June 9, 2026 at 11:27 AM

The BZA, City Council and the Planning Commission refused to approve my house plan application because it did not meet the intention of the South Waterfront Vision Plan. This plan for the Kerbela site does not meet the intention of the South Waterfront Vision Plan and likewise should be rejected.

June 9, 2026
at 11:27 AM

Kellie
37920

4-A-26-OB
Kellie (37920), June 9, 2026 at 2:15 PM

After reviewing the updates from CR-Endeavors, I'm extremely disappointed that they did not address any of the major concerns that both the community or the Planning Commission board mentioned during the last meeting. I attended that meeting, and it was very clear from all parties that there needed to be public access through the site, that the site needed to be developed for commercial/public use cases for the future, and that the aesthetics needed to be significantly improved. The new proposal by CR-Endeavors only lightly touches on the aesthetics of the building, and does absolutely nothing for the public access and future use cases of the property. This directly goes against the Vision Plan and the form-based code for this area. Their proposal does not meet the community or city requirements, and it is clear they have no desire to work with the community or city. If they actually cared about the community, then they would design a property development that adhered to the Vision Plan and the code, but it is clear they do not have the or city in mind, either for today or the future. This is a major disappointment and, frankly, an insult to our beloved city. As the Shriners mentioned, they have already had multiple offers. Let's pick a developer that actually cares about our community and is wholeheartedly willing to follow the Vision Plan and the code. Our city is too valuable to kowtow to a developer who is not willing to do the bare minimum.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260609141509.pdf

June 9, 2026
at 2:15 PM

John
37917

4-A-26-OB
John (37917), June 9, 2026 at 8:38 PM

If this development acts as a hindrance to pedestrian and cyclist connectivity, the city must deny this proposal. This is entirely contradictory to the communal efforts to better connect South Knoxville, and the city as a whole, by means of accessibility without motor vehicles. A gated residential property has no business being so close to an urban center of a growing city.

June 9, 2026
at 8:38 PM

Cathy
37920

4-A-26-OB
Cathy (37920), June 10, 2026 at 1:24 PM

CR-Endeavors seem like the typical out of town developers that have come to Knoxville to make a fast buck. They build eyesores, leave disorder in the form of traffic/parking or actual detritus, allow Kudzu to run rampant and destroy our nature.
When they do get cited by Codes they sell the property to a 'new' LLC. Which makes it hard to hold owners accountable. It takes lawyers and money to pierce the corporate veils the shadow LLCs. Money that the City or County Codes don't have. So nothing happens.
We are no longer a poor Appalachian town in need of investment, we need better planning standards as we grow! Especially when it comes to destroying a uniquely designed historic highly visible building.

June 10, 2026
at 1:24 PM

Kevin
37918

4-A-26-OB
Kevin (37918), June 10, 2026 at 1:43 PM

On behalf of the Knox Community Planning Alliance (KCPA): The KCPA board of directors respectfully requests that you deny the submitted application. The South Waterfront Advisory & Advocacy Group provided substantial and actionable feedback and ideas for improving the design. Many other public comments have also provided useful, and actionable, feedback.
The applicant's revised application has failed to take most of that into account, and the submitted plan does not line up with the South Waterfront Vision.
While uncomfortable, you are our LOCAL appointed representatives. 20 years ago, the community and city put substantial time into developing the design guidelines to make this look like Knoxville, not anyplace else. The applicant has not met the intended vision. Your duty is to represent Knoxville, provide them reasons why you are denying it, and then deny the application because it doesn't fit.

June 10, 2026
at 1:43 PM

Stephen
37920

4-A-26-OB
Stephen (37920), June 10, 2026 at 2:22 PM

City Church respectfully requests that the Commission deny the revised plans for development on the Kerbela site in its current form.
Our attached comments substantiates this request.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260610142241.pdf

June 10, 2026
at 2:22 PM

Lindsey
37920

4-A-26-OB
Lindsey (37920), June 10, 2026 at 3:28 PM

Hello, I walk with friends weekly in the area of Kerns, Kerbela and the Gay St bridge. Our route takes us down Sherrod Rd, across Kerbela lot, down the stairs on the hillside onto Sevier ave, directly across from Gay St. Bridge. After walking the bridge, we head back the same way, up the stairs and across the Kerbela lot to Sherrod to the apartment complex. These stairs are the best access to Gay St and Blount for the folks in those apartments up from Kerns. I hope keeping that access open is part of the new development.

June 10, 2026
at 3:28 PM

June 10, 2026
at 10:13 PM

Aaron
37917

4-A-26-OB
Aaron (37917), June 10, 2026 at 10:13 PM

YES! Knoxville believes that this development should be required to provide guaranteed and legally-enforceable public access through the site for pedestrians. We also encourage the developer to consider taking full advantage of the density allowed in the SW districts, in which they are working, because, in addition to being (presumably) more financially viable for the project, the increased tax base, decreased carbon emissions per housing unit, shorter commutes, and increased walkability will benefit the current and future residents of Knoxville.

7-O-26-RZ

James
37918

7-O-26-RZ
James (37918), June 13, 2026 at 9:18 PM

How is this new project going to affect our utilities. We are currently at a high-water pressure in order to supply homes down the line. Every day we have 3 or 4 severe water pressure drop offs during high usage times. (solution is larger water supply line down Crippen).
We currently have minor road flooding in a couple of areas during heavy or prolonged rains. Plus, extreme flooding in the greenway after prolonged rains. When you open up the forestry area where is all the water to go. Since Oaks Springs Villas sits at a lower elevation, we will suffer the effects which will not be good. The 3DU/AC zoning they are requesting seems to be a direct conflict with current drainage issues of our area. (They should be restricted to 2DU/AC. This would allow yards to retain some of the runoff water).
Currently traffic is already bad at rush hour. On several occasions I have had to wait 3 lights to get through the light on Crippen. Adding another 16,200+ car each month will really make a mess out of traffic and is already bumper to bumper all the way up Maynardville pike to the top of the hill.

June 13, 2026
at 9:18 PM

Chris
37924

7-E-26-RZ
Chris (37924), June 14, 2026 at 2:39 PM

Please be aware that the community has learned of this rezoning request, but there has been absolutely no public notification beyond the standard zoning sign. It is the community's strong opinion that any applicant requesting a rezoning should be responsible for reaching out to residents, explaining their plans, and sharing the design concept. The developer has not met with the community, and as a result, this proposal will face overwhelming opposition again.

June 14, 2026
at 2:39 PM

June 15, 2026
at 10:45 PM

Linda
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Linda (37924), June 15, 2026 at 8:52 PM

I have lots of concern with this rezoning so close to the historical cemetery. This cemetery is my husband's family cemetery.
Plus, Strawberry Plains Pike already gets backed up in this same area due to the elementary school.
We only have one grocery store in the area. Lots of concern with bringing lots more families into this area. Please stop this project. Not the area for that much growth!

June 15, 2026
at 8:52 PM

7-B-26-UR

Steven
37932

7-B-26-UR
Steven (37932), June 15, 2026 at 10:45 PM

I live in the Hickory Meadows neighborhood here in Hardin Valley. I have a lot of concerns to voice regarding the newly proposed Vulcan expansion. This expansion would back up straight to my property.
First, the whole neighborhood can already feel the physical effects of blasting from Vulcans current location and moving closer to our properties would be disastrous for the structural integrity of our homes.
Next, I also worry of the health concerns from the effects of RCS (Respirable Crystalline Sylica) for my wife, son, and myself.
Like many other young families in the neighborhood, we are first time home owners. We bought this house looking to start our lives and build equity. This expansion would ultimately ruin everything and completely put our family in financial purgatory.
My final question/thought is, we were never made aware of this expansion being a possibility. If it was always an option and a strong possibility at that, why was zoning ever approved in the first place for our neighborhood? It makes our family feel betrayed.
At the end of the day, the only clear outcomes that can save the families in this neighborhood from financial ruin would be for either Vulcan, Knox County, or another entity to buy our homes or the expansion to be declined.
Would love to hear feedback and what actions can be taken here.

7-O-26-RZ

Robert
37918

7-O-26-RZ
Robert (37918), June 16, 2026 at 9:48 AM

As a resident of Oak Spring Villas in Halls, I am writing to express my strong opposition to rezoning case 7-O-26-RZ regarding the 18-acre parcel at 4628 Crippen Road.
The property is designated as both Rural Conservation (RC) and Hillside Ridgetop Protection (HP). Given the environmental sensitivity and the steep slopes associated with an HP designation, I urge the planning committee to carefully weigh these factors against the proposed PR zoning of 3 du/ac.
Furthermore, I have serious concerns regarding the impact on local infrastructure. Crippen Road is a minor collector with a pavement width of only 18-20 feet. Adding upwards of 50 homes would generate hundreds of additional daily vehicle trips, significantly compromising safety at the already hazardous intersection of our subdivision entrance. We expect a comprehensive traffic study to be conducted to fully evaluate the potential impact of this development.

June 16, 2026
at 9:48 AM

June 17, 2026
at 11:11 AM

Kathy
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Kathy (37924), June 17, 2026 at 11:11 AM

This is protected Rural Conservation land. This property has so many problems that must first be addressed before any blanket approval can even be considered. It has a 150 foot TVA easement that runs straight down the middle of the property. TVA must be involved. There is a creek and wetland on the front of the property. Another creek on the back with a spring. All that must be studied for environmental impacts. There has been many car wrecks right in front of this site that makes it dangerous to even imagine a subdivision coming out of it. There must be a traffic study. It is hillside protected and the lay of the land is a huge hill. That protection must be considered. All around this property is 3rd & 4th generation single family homes. It is completely out of character for this area to drop a subdivision with 68 homes right in the middle of this neighborhood. The land could never fit that kind of development in because of the problems it has. Rezoning this would take away the protection that we were told we would have with the new land use plan. Please deny this rezoning and uphold that plan and the neighbors rights. The Commission should not grant a major density entitlement first and ask the hard questions later. Once density is approved, the process shifts toward forcing the site to accommodate that density. That is backwards. The constraints should be identified first, and only then should the Commission determine whether any increase in density is appropriate.

Lauren
37918

7-F-26-RZ
Lauren (37918), June 17, 2026 at 1:24 PM

Please stop allowing greedy developers destroying Knox County to continue. By allowing this, youre saying youre alright with ruining our community and do not care about the residents.
Lauren L.

June 17, 2026
at 1:24 PM

7-O-26-RZ

George
37918

7-O-26-RZ
George (37918), June 17, 2026 at 1:51 PM

Greetings,
I have several concerns and they are:
- Safety concerns on Crippen Road given the potential for increased flow. This road is already heavily traveled and is not designed for the current flow of traffic.
- Fire Hydrant Lines; does the existing infrastructure have adequately to handle an increase of services
- Potable Water Lines; Same infrastructure concerns as mentioned immediately above.
- Damaging storm water runoff and potential damage to the Halls Marsh Area
- Safety concerns for traffic due to the close proximity of several entrances and egresses onto Crippen Road ( hidden drives due to existing road and terrain conditions ).
- School bus ( School Children ) safety given the item immediately above.
- Speeding along Crippen Road; unchecked speeding on this road. Crippen is utilized as short cut between Hiskel / Gibbs and Knoxville ( bypassing Halls Cross Roads Intersection )
These are the opportunities that come to my mind. I'm sure that other concerned citizens will provide others that are equally pressing and concerning.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback into the process.
V/r,
GJ D.

June 17, 2026
at 1:51 PM

7-D-26-DP

Kevin
37871

7-D-26-DP
Kevin (37871), June 17, 2026 at 2:53 PM

We don't need more homes. We need more restaurants and grocery stores here as it is. The schools are going to be overcrowded. We don't have to make room for everyone wanting to leave their state.

June 17, 2026
at 2:53 PM

Jamie
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Jamie (37924), June 17, 2026 at 5:10 PM

This rezoning is a few feet away from my family cemetery McCubbins and is just through the woods from my 24 acre farmland. The land is hillside and has a creek running through it . Carter elementary is on the opposite side of straw plains pk, where there are traffic backups daily. This community is tired of having large developments ruin 4-way in. We have one grocery store amd one school. Our roads are narrow and filled past capacity. Please do not approve this rezoning.

June 17, 2026
at 5:10 PM

Beverly
37920

7-F-26-RZ
Beverly (37920), June 17, 2026 at 9:02 PM

Please stop this madness! Knox County is being overdeveloped. This property should be left alone as it is currently zoned. A big majority of the Commissioners should be thrown out of office, along with the folks in MPC.

June 17, 2026
at 9:02 PM

June 18, 2026
at 10:27 AM

Priscilla
37721

7-F-26-RZ
Priscilla (37721), June 18, 2026 at 10:27 AM

There is no reason new development should go here. Adding more development to our rural community is dangerous - the infrastructure cannot support it. The roads are small, there are no sidewalks or streetlights, there are food deserts, blind curves, and county planning needs to do better. There is no support for this many new homes, and we are losing too much forest and rural land currently.

Alexis
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Alexis (37924), June 18, 2026 at 1:00 PM

Please do not let developer build these houses. A family graveyard near by does not need this. Strawberry Plains Pike has so much traffic now. Speed limit 45, most cars are doing at least 60 mph. When I go to my mailbox I pray I don't get hit.
SAY NO to this

June 18, 2026
at 1:00 PM

June 18, 2026
at 11:16 PM

Tanya
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Tanya (37924), June 18, 2026 at 11:16 PM

This land is currently zoned RC (Rural Conservation) and HP (Hillside Ridgetop Protection), and changing it to PR (Planned Residential) would invite development that does not fit the site or the needs of our community. The proposal for 68 new houses would be on a steep hillside with two creeks/wetland area and a TVA easement running through the middle of the property. This is not a good location for that kind of buildout. The terrain, water features, and protected hillside conditions make this property especially sensitive, and pushing development here would risk damaging the character and stability of the area.
Our community is already carrying too much. We do not have the infrastructure in place for more growth like this. We have one grocery store, our schools are already overflowing, and traffic is already horrible on the interstate, Asheville Highway, and Strawberry Plains Pike. During school hours, Strawberry Plains Pike is already difficult to move through. I can't believe that this would pass without additional studies being done and I think a traffic study while school is in session (not during the summer) would immediately stop this. We ask officials to protect this land, respect the current zoning, and reject this rezoning request. Our community deserves planning that does not make daily life harder for the people who live and travel through this area.

Tanya
37924

7-E-26-RZ
Tanya (37924), June 19, 2026 at 1:24 AM

We do not have the infrastructure for more developments in this area. The traffic is already horrible on Asheville Highway, the interstate, and Strawplains Pike, the schools are overflowing, we have one grocery store. How about do things around here the correct way and build up infrastructure then talk about developments. Either way 12 units/ac is way too much to be located in the middle of a single family residential area and sounds more like an apartment situation again but we don't know because information is not being shared with the community. The same community that is going to have to deal with whatever makes our area worse then all these new developments have already.

June 19, 2026
at 1:24 AM

June 19, 2026
at 11:10 AM

Steve
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Steve (37924), June 19, 2026 at 11:10 AM

Please reconsider all development in east Knox county. With the current increases in housing and the volume of vehicles coming from Jefferson and Hamblen county the roads are just to crowded. I sometimes wait in line for 2 miles at the Holston river bridge redlight heading west now. It's become a miserable experience traveling on strawberry plains pike and Asheville hwy. Adding more housing will just add to the traffic problems.
Then you also have the convience center volume problems we currently have that will increase along with schools. Please do not approve any more housing.

7-SA-26-C

John
37922

7-SA-26-C
John (37922), June 19, 2026 at 11:38 AM

As President of The Gates at Franklin HOA, I have polled the property owners in The Gates at Franklin Subdivision, and we are in agreement that the Knox County Planning Commission should remove the 6-SE-19-C, Condition 5 requirement for sidewalks inside our subdivision.
The homeowners do not need, have room for, or want sidewalks inside The Gates at Franklin Subdivision. Sidewalks have been constructed along Triplett Lane where there was ample space and need. The site plan documents for the subdivision provided by B&B Development, from the beginning of the development, did not include any provision for sidewalks for internal lots along Lantern Way. With the limited setback from the road to the house fronts, there is simply no room for the prescribed sidewalk requirement without irreparably impacting our small, gated community. Installation of sidewalks at this time would have significant adverse impacts on the subdivision as a whole and on each property.
Therefore, the HOA supports removal of Condition 5 requirements for sidewalks within the subdivision alongside Lantern Way.
We respectfully request that you take appropriate action to remove or modify Condition 5 requirements for sidewalks in The Gates at Franklin Subdivision.
Regards,
John Lyons
President, The Gates at Franklin Homeowners Association

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260619113817.pdf

June 19, 2026
at 11:38 AM

June 19, 2026
at 11:44 AM

Andrew
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Andrew (37924), June 19, 2026 at 11:44 AM

I am writing in opposition to this rezoning. The traffic is already horribly too dangerous on Strawberry Plains Pike to allow for this. Twice this month I have nearly been run off the road while turning into my driveway, which happens to be only half a mile from this proposal.
This road and this area cannot handle the additional traffic until significant infrastructure updates are made. It is far too dangerous for me to turn in and out, so how much more dangerous will it be for me but also for all of the new homeowners in this development with the additional traffic.
Please vote no on this rezoning.

June 19, 2026
at 11:56 AM

Donna
37912

7-F-26-RZ
Donna (37912), June 19, 2026 at 11:56 AM

Please deny this request for rezoning that 13.64 land. It is protected land that needs to be left as intended. This area is very congested now. When Carter School pick up time happens it backs up. There have been so many wrecks right in front of there that it is dangerous. Adding a entry at that location for a subdivision across the creek & wetland needs to be studied first. The families that live all around that property have been there for a very long time and this will determinedly impact their property. It would be a shame to force this type of development on the old established neighbors while the plan is in place to protect them. Also there are many problems with the land. It has wetlands and creeks that must be considered. That 150 foot TVA easement will limit much of any desired development to even be considered. That would be like a puzzle trying to fit houses in. It is hillside protected also. Please vote no to this bad request and honor the zoning in place. They knew what the property was zoned before they bought it. They now want to forget about the people that live there and take advantage of them.

June 19, 2026
at 12:22 PM

Stephanie
37871

7-F-26-RZ
Stephanie (37871), June 19, 2026 at 12:22 PM

We do not need anymore housing in this area. One reson is the roads can't handle anymore traffic, as well as the Carter community Schools are already overcrowded. We have one good store and that's food city that barely enough to handle the people we have, then there is Priceless which is a extremely small store that doesnt have half of what the food city does. We don't have many pharmacies and the few we have are already fairly loaded with patients. We just don't have it for all these new homes. Theres already so many more going in. What will the builders and developers, and government officials rather us never have any farm lands or beautiful green pastures. Many of the farm lands are still working farms, and yet new developments keep trying to push them out. We just don't have the room for anymore housing complexes no matter the size or style. Quit trying to take all the fresh air we have and polite it with all the new traffic.. Plus you are also running all the dears out of their home and they have no where else to go to. Just someone grow a pair and stop all this nonsense please.

Kelly
37871

7-F-26-RZ
Kelly (37871), June 19, 2026 at 6:02 PM

To whom it concerns. I am writing to you on behalf of my family and myself. McCubbins Cemetery has been my family's personal cemetery since dating back to the 1800s. I would like to personally invite you to come see our cemetery on the hill. I believe you would find after looking at the property line and the fact some graves only have a piece of slate rock for a headstone that this new construction is not a proper fit. Knox Co is not responsible for any thing to do with the cemetery it is all taken care of by family. The property line is about 15 feet from the last row of graves. Putting homes close is a problem waiting to happen. There will be adults and children that will have no respect for my loved ones final resting place. Once some of the slate rocks are removed or broken we will have no way of knowing who or where it goes. I do hope you will consider this historic family graveyard in making your vote. Strawberry Plains Pike is a 2 lane road. You already have Carter Elementary basically across the street and traffic is horrible every morning getting through that add more cars and it will be a disaster. We would like to see East Knox County grow some but not at the expense of our community. We have 1 red light 1 grocery store 1 drugstore and a hardware store a lot of 1 lane hills and curves roads. I would like to thank you considering a NO vote in our future. Kelly

June 19, 2026
at 6:02 PM

June 19, 2026
at 10:24 PM

Guy
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Guy (37924), June 19, 2026 at 10:24 PM

Enough already, your rubber stamping these subdivisions with any concern for the infrastructure is absolutely ridiculous!!!?

June 20, 2026
at 12:41 AM

Heather
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Heather (37924), June 20, 2026 at 12:41 AM

We don't have the infrastructure for everything that is being added out here. We have one grocery store, the schools are overflowing, and the traffic is horrible on Asheville Highway, the interstate, and Strawplains Pike especially when school is in session so we don't need this almost across the street from the elementary school. This particular property is under Hillside Ridgetop Protection. Protect the family cemetery that has been there for decades.

Chris
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Chris (37924), June 20, 2026 at 8:53 AM

Please deny this rezoning request. The proposal raises serious environmental and infrastructural concerns, including the presence of protected wetlands, encroachment by TVA powerlines, and inadequate road infrastructure - all of which would directly impact the area across from Carter Elementary. Additionally, a historic family cemetery sits adjacent to the property. While we recognize that growth is inevitable in East Knox County, we urge the commission to require a proactive, community-driven approach before any approval. Specifically, we request a formal community meeting with the developer to review a detailed site plan, ensuring that the proposed placetype is compatible with the surrounding neighborhood and its unique constraints.

June 20, 2026
at 8:53 AM

Danielle
37871

7-F-26-RZ
Danielle (37871), June 20, 2026 at 9:29 AM

Please stop with the developments in our area. Our community can not handle the amount of people this would bring. Things have already gotten worse rom the development that already has occurred. Traffic is horrible, more wrecks than ever, and food city is the only major grocery store we have to accommodate everyone..Carter elementary was rebuilt to because the old school couldn't handle the amount of kids we have now. I foresee portable classrooms again if this continues. Please stop development.

June 20, 2026
at 9:29 AM

June 20, 2026
at 11:07 AM

Alexis
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Alexis (37924), June 20, 2026 at 11:07 AM

StrawPlains Pike does not need any more traffic. Please DO NOT CHANGE ZONING

Sarah
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Sarah (37924), June 20, 2026 at 1:43 PM

I strongly oppose this rezoning request. Strawberry Plains Pike is already experiencing increased traffic, congestion, and noise, and the existing two-lane road infrastructure is not adequate to support the additional vehicles that could result from approximately 68 new homes. Multiple apartment and condominium developments have already been built or approved within a mile of this location, further increasing density and placing added demands on local infrastructure.
Our community's services have not kept pace with this growth. Residents are served by limited commercial amenities, including only one nearby grocery store. This proposal could also place additional strain on local schools, including Carter Elementary, by bringing more school-age children into an area where educational resources, staffing, and classroom capacity must already meet the needs of a growing population.
The proposed rezoning is inconsistent with the established character of the surrounding community and undermines the purpose of the Rural Conservation designation. I urge the MPC and County Commission to deny this request and preserve the current zoning.
A pdf letter has been attached.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260620134356.pdf

June 20, 2026
at 1:43 PM

7-SD-26-C

Scott
37924

7-SD-26-C
Scott (37924), June 20, 2026 at 7:08 PM

Why are all these builders deciding to jam a bunch of apartments on or near Asheville Highway and Strawberry Plains Pike. Slow growth is ok but turning this rural area into apartment city is not what we need in this area. Once we start this it will not stop. Why not have development groups look at putting a manufactured housing in these locations instead of apartments at 3 to 4 units per acre that will be affordable for young couples can own instead of giving money to greedy developers who don't care about the neighborhoods they are destroying. We have Food City which prices are higher than other Food City stores because there is no competition near by. We do not need Strawberry Plains Pike to be another Tazewell Pike traffic daily jam.

June 20, 2026
at 7:08 PM

Kelly
37871

7-F-26-RZ
Kelly (37871), June 21, 2026 at 2:47 PM

To whom it may concern, I am writing this on behalf of the rezoning on StrawPlains Pike. My family has a family cemetery McCubbins with graves dating back to the 1880s to present. A lot of the headstones are just slabs of slate rock. The cemetery is no financial burden to Knox County it is maintained by family. If this rezoning is passed a part of the property line will be about 20 feet from the last row of graves. I invite all of you to come see our cemetery and how close to the property line it will be. With the building of 68 or more houses comes adults and children that will show no respect for our loved ones final resting place. There is no ledger of information on each person. The family just knows who is where by the slate rock. The final resting place for my loved ones is on the hill and is quiet and very peaceful. I am asking you to let it stay that way. Please place one family's history before one mans greed. Just vote NO

June 21, 2026
at 2:47 PM

Harold
37871

7-F-26-RZ
Harold (37871), June 22, 2026 at 2:28 PM

We literally just voiced our concerns about a different area being rezoned, and thank God we stopped it. We don't want our community to become overcrowded with houses and/or apartments. We don't want or need our schools to be overcrowded either.
We don't want any more growth than what has already happened. We don't want our beautiful country community ruined like we've watched happen in Sevier County because of all the development.

June 22, 2026
at 2:28 PM

Michael
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Michael (37924), June 22, 2026 at 2:46 PM

I would just like to voice my concern on 7-F-26-RZ. This is highly inappropriate to go against all of the codes put in place to protect this land and should NOT be rezoned for commercial building purposes for a developer. This land holds immense value and importance to the community and the wildlife that inhabits its with its two creeks and a wetland. The vote should be NO to rezoning this property. Thank you for hearing comments. I will be at the meeting to be heard on this matter as well.

June 22, 2026
at 2:46 PM

June 23, 2026
at 11:58 AM

Brenda
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Brenda (37924), June 22, 2026 at 6:45 PM

This area is the last part of Strawberry Plains Pike before you get to the elementary school that has not been rezoned for subdivisions. It still has the charm of the country. The homes all the way around the property are single family homes. Many have been there for generations. It is completely out of character to rezone this Agriculture property. Even if you look forward to the new place types that were to protect the land it is not compatible. No way can 40 or 50 percent of that land be open space. The property has wetlands on the front and back. It is hillside protected and has a TVA easement that dominates the use because it runs straight down the middle. Placing any more than one house per acre would be wrong for this property. It needs to remain the zoning that matches everything around it. These people knew what the zoning was when they bought it. For them to just decide that they can rezone it and completely change the established character of the neighborhood is beyond wrong. Please see this for what it is and deny this request and preserve the character of the community.

June 22, 2026
at 6:45 PM

7-M-26-RZ

Emily
37721

7-M-26-RZ
Emily (37721), June 23, 2026 at 9:54 AM

As a long standing member of the community I believe we must draw a line. We have seen multiple subdivisions built throughout Knoxville and Tennessee as a whole. They do not represent the Tennessee spirit instead they divid us further. As a community we have fought against every subdivision that has been forced upon us. We need to define ourselves as the small town we are. Not only for general moral but also for public safety. The more people involved in the community the thinner the resources are spread. The money brought in by people moving here does not stay local. The money is sent to the property owners who have sold out and moved on. Knoxville is slowly becoming so metropolitan that a simple drive becomes a thirty minute commute. Please evaluate the local community and our current standing. Simply put we are not interested.

June 23, 2026
at 9:54 AM

7-M-26-RZ

Kelly
37721

7-M-26-RZ
Kelly (37721), June 23, 2026 at 11:58 AM

Our little town cannot support this type of growth. Our roads cannot take another housing development in their current state. The traffic is already terrible if there is one small hiccup in the morning or evening commute. The schools cannot support anymore children in the already deteriorating classrooms and schools. There is not enough staff in the schools to support the children that are currently attending. Our farm land is being taken at an alarming rate making it impossible for future farming opportunities. Please consider what these housing developments do to our small town when they tear apart our natural ecosystems, traffic patterns, and schooling situations.
We do not need anymore house tracks in Corryton!

Diane
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Diane (37924), June 24, 2026 at 9:42 AM

This is one of the worse cases of rezoning of a property that I have ever seen. The neighborhood all the way around this property is nothing but single family homes. This would completely change the intended plan for this area. The new planning that we have been hearing about was to protect areas just like this one. It makes NO sense to change this zoning so drastically to accommodate the developer against the neighborhood and the zone. It would destroy the last part of Strawberry Plains Pike all the way from the interstate, that does not have a new subdivision, before you pass the school to the end of Four Way Inn. The last look of a rural countryside. Everything else has already been changed. Please do not approve this rezoning. Just because someone owns a property does not give them a right to expect they can completely change a neighborhood. They bought it as Agriculture and it should stay that way. They have all the same rights that every other property owner has. They do not have more. Please see these facts and vote no.

June 24, 2026
at 9:42 AM

June 24, 2026
at 10:02 AM

Jan
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Jan (37924), June 24, 2026 at 10:02 AM

This is a bad attempt for rezoning property that has so many things wrong with it that it should not even be considered. Hillside & wetland protected. Large TVA easement running the full length of the property. Any construction on that hill will impact those neighbors drastically with run off. One person said that the developer has already rutted and marred up a historically old family burial ground dragging out old forest trees from the back of the property. On the other side there is a old house that dates back to the 1800s. This was one of the first places settled in this area. I heard that the spring in the back of that property ,up for rezoning, was a main source of water for the early settlers of this area. All that needs to be considered and protected. Allowing the rezoning would be wrong. Please do not even consider doing anything but straight out denial. Thank you for protecting what is left of this area. It should remain the zone just like the surrounding area.

June 24, 2026
at 10:16 AM

James
37924

7-F-26-RZ
James (37924), June 24, 2026 at 10:16 AM

This land on Strawberry Plains Pike is not appropriate for rezoning and should remain zoned as Agriculture. It is steep hillside with wetlands and creeks running at the front and back of the property. High density housing in the middle of this community would be detrimental to the residents who have lived here for decades. This would damage our local ecosystem and negatively impact our surrounding farmlands.

June 24, 2026
at 10:23 AM

Aaron
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Aaron (37924), June 24, 2026 at 10:23 AM

This is a horrible location for a subdivision. Strawberry Plains Pike is already very dangerous and congested in this area. There have been several fatal wrecks right in front of this property because the road is so bad. It would be careless to allow a developer to build a subdivision here. Please vote no and protect our community!

June 24, 2026
at 10:38 AM

Erwin
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Erwin (37924), June 24, 2026 at 10:38 AM

This is not an appropriate site for a subdivision. This is agricultural land surrounded by old family farms and historic homesteads. A subdivision does not fit the character of the area.
There is a history of many fatal accidents in front of this property. A pedestrian was run over and killed on Strawberry Plains Pike near here not long ago. This is not a suitable location.
Please listen to the longtime residents and farmers that have lived on and worked the surrounding land for generations and say NO to this developer.

June 24, 2026
at 11:14 AM

Melony
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Melony (37924), June 24, 2026 at 11:14 AM

Please do not rezone this property ! This is completely out of character for this area and will ruin it. It is unfair to expect to have a property like this with so many outstanding problems create more for the neighborhood. The road is dangerous right in front of it and I have come up on many accidents right there. It is a parental zone so the kids have to walk to school with no sidewalks. That is a scary thought on its own !

June 24, 2026
at 11:26 AM

Nicky
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Nicky (37924), June 24, 2026 at 11:26 AM

This is so out of character for this area. No way should this even be considered. Just because someone decides to try and profit off the neighborhood does not mean that they have the right to change the zoning to get it. This is just greed. That landowner that is really behind this lives far away from this area. They have a beautiful spread that no one can even get close to doing what they are trying to do against our neighbors. They even want it named after them. Please vote no and preserve the intended protection of the rural neighborhood. Once the land is gone its gone. Thank you

June 24, 2026
at 11:34 AM

Neil
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Neil (37924), June 24, 2026 at 11:34 AM

This location should not even be considered for rezoning because it is right in the middle of single family homes. It would stick out like a sore thumb and ruin the rural community there. The protection is written in the zoning. Please stick to it. Over 500 homes are being built within a mile of this property right now. The neighborhood need protection. Please see this for the mess it will create and vote no.

June 24, 2026
at 11:36 AM

Jessica
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Jessica (37924), June 24, 2026 at 11:36 AM

I am writing to ask the Planning Commission to vote no on rezoning 0 Strawberry Plains Pike, Case 7-F-26-RZ.
I travel through this area daily. This road and surrounding area cannot safely handle another subdivision. Traffic is already becoming a problem in this part of East Knox County, especially with all the new growth happening nearby. Strawberry Plains Pike is not a road that needs more driveways, more turning traffic, more school traffic, and more runoff problems added to it.
I am also concerned that once agricultural land like this is rezoned, the character of the area is permanently changed. This property is not flat open land. It has steep terrain, drainage concerns, and sits near older homes and a cemetery. That should matter.
Growth in this area is already more than enough. Every piece of land is not suitable for a subdivision. This particular property should stay agricultural.
Please vote to deny this.

June 24, 2026
at 11:53 AM

Linda
37924

7-E-26-RZ
Linda (37924), June 24, 2026 at 11:53 AM

I live in this area and can tell you the roads cannot support this kind of development. Have you checked out the demands on the roads already? Traffic is horrible. Also the schools are overcrowded with portable building already in place. Please vote no on this rezoning!

Alexandria
37924

7-F-26-RZ
Alexandria (37924), June 24, 2026 at 1:37 PM

This tract is not an appropriate place for increased residential density. It has remained A/Agricultural because that zoning fits the physical character of the land and the surrounding rural-residential area. The property is steep, includes sensitive drainage conditions, and is designated Hillside/Ridgetop Protection. There are creeks, wetlands, and stormwater concerns at both the road frontage and rear portions of the property, and the tract is also adjacent to long-established rural settlements and McCubbins Cemetery.
This should not be treated as a simple 'more housing is needed' case. MPC records already show substantial residential growth in this same immediate area surrounding Strawberry Plains Pike with well over 900 residential units/lots already under construction, approved, or moving through development review in the immediate surrounding area before adding this proposed rezoning.
Given the amount of residential development already being added nearby, general housing demand should not be used to justify rezoning this specific constrained parcel. The question is not whether housing should exist somewhere in East Knox County. The question is whether this particular steep, environmentally sensitive, historically rural agricultural tract should be rezoned from Agricultural to Planned Residential. For this parcel, the answer should be no.
Please vote to deny the rezoning.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20260624133747.pdf

June 24, 2026
at 1:37 PM

7-D-26-DP

Kathy
37924

7-D-26-DP
Kathy (37924), June 25, 2026 at 8:30 AM

The Commissioners should take a long look at all the rezoning happening on Strawplains Pike because it is to much in such a short amount of time. No infrastructure to support it. Our schools are full and the traffic is bad now. Slow down and think before you continue doing more.

June 25, 2026
at 8:30 AM

Cathy
37919

7-E-26-RZ
Cathy (37919), June 25, 2026 at 8:42 AM

The developments around the Carter area are happening to fast. The infrastructure cannot handle it. Please slow it down and think about the neighborhoods. Think about where all the kids will be going to school. Think about the lack of grocery stores. Think about the trash drop off. Think about the traffic. Think about us.

June 25, 2026
at 8:42 AM

June 25, 2026
at 10:59 AM

Brad
37917

4-A-26-OB
Brad (37917), June 25, 2026 at 10:59 AM

There are many opportunities for this site to be better engaged with the community and intent of the SW code while accomodating the slope. The center of the building where they've proposed the leasing one story space should be removed and incorporated into a central corridor that is open to the public. Commercial spaces that act as an inviting path and connector between the hillside connector and mimosa avenue, Kerns, and Rail to Trail. To accomodate this, building the building taller. This would give a purpose to the stairs which currently dead end into fencing to the enclosed apartment spaces. This can be done well. The architecture is mediocre, but small improvements to the connectivity will go a long way. I'm glad that it has more stone/solid exterior material. Needs to have more architectural interest and a more diverse building style. More external connections, townhouse style units on the lower levels would help a lot on this connecting to the neighborhood as well.