August 13, 2026
Planning Commission meeting

Public Comments

397 Comments for

4-A-26-OB
Ann (37920), April 5, 2026 at 9:49 PM

Many cities have hills that are pleasant to look at instead of just apartment buildings. This particular hill in Knoxville deserves to be treated specially because of its location at the end of the Gay Street bridge and visible from downtown. Planning needs to insist on SW-5 and SW-6 zoning rules be complied with and WITHOUT VARIANCES. The slopes can be managed with landscaping which is pleasing. The steps should lead up to a park-light public space, not private property. South Knoxville does not need or want another mammoth apartment building on top of one of the few remaining hills that are on the South side. Please do not allow this private seller or developer to have variances to the form-based code that was so carefully planned by the public.

April 5, 2026
at 9:49 PM

4-A-26-OB

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-A-26-OB

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 11, 2026
at 11:31 AM

4-A-26-OB

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 13, 2026
at 8:31 PM

4-A-26-OB

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

April 16, 2026
at 2:19 PM

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

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

4-A-26-OB

Brianna
37920

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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

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Amy
37920

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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

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Linda
37920

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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

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christie
37920

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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

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Gary
37924

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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

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Allen
37920

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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

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Mark
37920

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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

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Terry
37920

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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

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Jessica
37917

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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

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Zoe
37939

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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

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Pamela
37920

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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

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Kellie
37920

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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

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Logan
37902

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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

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Rachel
37918

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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

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Whitney
37920

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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

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Ian
37920

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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

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Mark
37920

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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

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Louise
37920

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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

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Annabel
37920

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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

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Maggie
37920

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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

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Ann
37920

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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.