January 8, 2026
Planning Commission meeting
Planning Commission meeting
Public Comments
36 Comments for
Elizabeth
37912
37912
7-G-24-PA
Elizabeth (37912), September 24, 2024 at 12:48 AM
I live just next door to the property in question, and I'm restoring a 2 BR, 1 bath cottage built in 1940 that sits on the same sized lot. The re-zoning proposal for the property means that a 2-story duplex with 2 BRs each - that's maybe 8 people, easily, isn't enough. I'm concerned, and rezoning a lot the size of mine opens a can of worms for everybody all over the city. Please gently recommend alternatives, Elizabeth (37912), September 24, 2024 at 12:48 AM
Gregg
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Gregg (37849), December 5, 2025 at 2:56 PM
The proposed rezoning to multi family residential on a small piece of property sandwiched between two single dwelling residences seems terribly inappropriate. The lot lies narrow and long and will require lots of traffic noise and open access to existing neighbors. The access to Heiskell Road is on a blind hill, and almost directly across from the entrance to Country Run Subdivision, which already makes it difficult for the residents of the single family homes to get out on a very busy road. Heiskell Road is extremely busy and dangerous on this blind hill and adding a significant number of cars trying to enter at that juncture would be very much asking for accidents. This is a quiet neighborhood and to the north of this property is a family property of 4 homes immediately adjacent to this property. We are not interested in adding multi family residential next door. Gregg (37849), December 5, 2025 at 2:56 PM
Elanda
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Elanda (37849), December 5, 2025 at 3:00 PM
We are opposed to the proposed rezoning to multi family residential on a small piece of property sandwiched between two single dwelling residences. The lot is too small and will require lots of traffic noise and open access to existing neighbors. The access to Heiskell Road is on a blind hill, and almost directly across from the entrance to Country Run Subdivision, which already makes it difficult for the residents of the single family homes to get out on a very busy road. Heiskell Road is extremely busy and dangerous on this blind hill and adding a significant number of cars trying to enter would be a mistake. This is a quiet neighborhood and to the north of this property is a family property of 4 homes and we are not interested in adding multi family residential next door. Elanda (37849), December 5, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Caitlynn
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Caitlynn (37849), December 7, 2025 at 7:01 AM
As a Heiskell Road/Powell resident, I strongly oppose the proposed subdivision on Heiskell. Our schools and roads are already operating well beyond capacity, and adding another high-density development would only worsen an already strained infrastructure.Caitlynn (37849), December 7, 2025 at 7:01 AM
We are currently dealing with multi-year construction on the Emory Road/I-75 interchange, which has created significant congestion and safety concerns. Introducing additional traffic during this period, while our community is already bottlenecked, would be irresponsible and detrimental to the quality of life for current residents.
I cannot imagine the negative impact this development would have on our roads, school system, emergency response access, and overall infrastructure. Until there is a realistic, fully funded plan to address these issues, I strongly urge the committee to deny this proposal.
Patti
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Patti (37849), December 7, 2025 at 7:49 AM
I strongly disagree with this proposed subdivision. I currently live in Country Walk and the amount of traffic causes huge concern. It is a blind view exiting our subdivision and many accidents have occurred. I feel adding more traffic will cause more accidents and slow traffic in this area. Please vote no!Patti (37849), December 7, 2025 at 7:49 AM
Karen
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Karen (37849), December 7, 2025 at 8:43 AM
Before adding another subdivision on Heiskill Rd please consider the traffic and the schools. Wrecks happen daily on Heiskill road.Karen (37849), December 7, 2025 at 8:43 AM
It is so hard to get out of Country Walk and Country Run subdivision now, another subdivision would make the traffic even worst.
Also, the Powell schools are currently crowded they can't handle more kids.
Kristen
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Kristen (37849), December 7, 2025 at 9:24 AM
I would strongly advise against a proposed added neighborhood or additional housing across from Country Run. This is already a very congested road and dangerous with getting out from the blind hill. Adding additional housing and therefore traffic to this area would be extremely dangerous, and only worsen the congestion, traffic, and threaten the safety of homeowners, as well as children who rely on school bus stops along this route. Kristen (37849), December 7, 2025 at 9:24 AM
Donna
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Donna (37849), December 7, 2025 at 9:59 AM
We do not have the infrastructure for continued subdivision and housing development in this area. The area was considered agricultural for years and was loved for its country feel. We are ruining the area with over development. Our elementary school children are being taught in trailers with no air and heat. They deserve better. Donna (37849), December 7, 2025 at 9:59 AM
School drop off is near gridlock with school traffic daily. Traffic gridlocks on Emory daily. Back roads are becoming main commuter routes which makes for safety concerns. Children cannot walk safely to bus stops, speeding traffic on blind curves leads to accidents.
PLEASE slow down the development and be better stewards of the natural resources and wildlife in the area. No one wants to live in a cement jungle in Powell.
Christie
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Christie (37849), December 7, 2025 at 12:49 PM
Unless you intend to provide/ place a traffic light then I am against the development of this area! This is a very trafficked area and a bus stop. Theres a blind hill on Heiskell right before the entrance to Country Run. Since living here for 30 years the traffic has increased exponentially and so has the danger of pulling out onto Heiskell Road. As stated unless proper traffic management is instigated then I am against this this proposed development! Christie (37849), December 7, 2025 at 12:49 PM
Christie F. T.
Jennifer
37754
37754
12-I-25-RZ
Jennifer (37754), December 7, 2025 at 2:37 PM
Please consider denying this request! We are getting a 200 unit apartment complex on emory road maybe 1 mile from this request! Our roads are awful, need paving, congested, need new lines etc! Our schools are already overcrowded! Lets preserve our city of Powell!! Unless you can afford a new elementary, middle school, and high school please do not approve this request!Jennifer (37754), December 7, 2025 at 2:37 PM
Angela
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Angela (37849), December 7, 2025 at 2:39 PM
We live next to this property and have along with our family for over 30 years. We have enjoyed a quiet neighborhood alongside good neighbors. This will change the dynamic of this area. It is already overcrowded with two subdivisions close by on this road and will be impossible to get out of our own driveway with this many homes right next to us. It is a blind Hill and there are a lot of wrecks here. Please reconsider and deny this access for this many homes in that small area.Thank you ! Angela (37849), December 7, 2025 at 2:39 PM
Amanda
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Amanda (37849), December 7, 2025 at 4:34 PM
I have serious concerns about how this new development will affect traffic safety on Heiskell Road. In the past year, I have seen more wrecks than usual from vehicles trying to access Heiskell Rd from Emory Rd. I live in Country Run subdivision across from the proposed development. The current level of traffic congestion makes it difficult to access Heiskell during common commuting hours. Additionally, the blind hill obscures on-coming northbound traffic; the many vehicles that travel above the speed limit here make this a dangerous access point. I personally have nearly been hit on a few occasions. A new development will bring increased congestion and a higher risk of collision and injury to an already risky location.Amanda (37849), December 7, 2025 at 4:34 PM
To be clear, I am not opposed to increasing housing opportunities in this area. What I am opposed to is building new developments without updated infrastructure and safety measures.
Matt and Katie
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Matt and Katie (37849), December 7, 2025 at 4:45 PM
Please do not let them get permission to turn this into apartments or townhomes! This has been family owned land for years and it is already too traffic filled as it is. Keep Powell from growing faster than its roads! Matt and Katie (37849), December 7, 2025 at 4:45 PM
Sloan
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Sloan (37849), December 7, 2025 at 4:49 PM
I am writing to share my concerns about the proposed rezoning of the agricultural land near my property for a new subdivision.Sloan (37849), December 7, 2025 at 4:49 PM
My main concerns include:
Traffic: Heiskell road is a already busy, and adding more homes will increase congestion and raise safety issues.
Schools: Zoned schools (specifically, Powell Elementary) are close to/over capacity, and additional families may strain resources.
Environmental Impact: Converting farmland to housing may affect drainage, increase runoff, and reduce open space.
Community Character: Rapid development may change the rural or semi-rural feel of the area.
I respectfully ask that the Commission carefully evaluate these issues before making any decision on the rezoning request.
Veronica
37754
37754
12-I-25-RZ
Veronica (37754), December 7, 2025 at 6:18 PM
I drive Heiskell rd everyday and have most my life. My family grew up out here. This area has grown enough. The roads are already too busy and the schools are overcrowded. You need to fix the other problems before bringing more unwanted people to this, what used to be, nice and quiet side of Powell. Developments like these should go to a vote from the community not a planning committee. Veronica (37754), December 7, 2025 at 6:18 PM
Niki
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Niki (37849), December 7, 2025 at 8:37 PM
I have concerned about a high density subdivision at this location and how they will safely get on and off an already congestion Heiskell. That spot is at a hill with limited visibility and reaction time. There are already issues when people traveling towards Emory on Heiskell try to turn left into Country Run and Walk. In fact my son was rear ended in that spot as he waited to turn into Country Walk when someone came over the hill quickly and did not stop in time. This will only become a larger problem with another subdivision entrance in this same location with no turning lane. Niki (37849), December 7, 2025 at 8:37 PM
Valerie
3784
3784
12-I-25-RZ
Valerie ( 3784), December 7, 2025 at 8:39 PM
I live in Country Run subdivision which is diagonal from the entrance to the proposed property for an apartment complex. At certain times of the day it is already difficult to get out of the subdivision entrance safely, and will be more difficult as the Emory rd exit off the interstate continues to be worked on. People will get off the interstate at Raccoon Valley Rd and use Heiskell Rd to avoid the Emory exit. More cars from the proposed apts will make it even more difficult. I have lived on Heiskell Rd for over 58 years and have seen it become busier each year. We would appreciate you considering leaving this area for a single home rather than a busy apt complex. Thank youValerie ( 3784), December 7, 2025 at 8:39 PM
Tiffany
37931
37931
12-I-25-RZ
Tiffany (37931), December 7, 2025 at 8:47 PM
I grew up two houses over from this property my entire life. My kids still come over and play at my parents house who live there, as do my nieces and nephews. My extended family lives right beside this property, and building so many apartments in this the area would not only be foolish, but would bog down. What is a very dangerous place to be pulling out. The hill that comes up over high School Road is very difficult to see over, and with the congestion of multiple people coming from apartments, you are waiting for an accident to happen. Not only that, but it seems absolutely criminal to keep filling up farmland that is so beautiful and sparse in this area. It would make more sense to preserve it. Furthermore, the wildlife that lives in that area depends on that property. There are many deer, chickens, coyotes, squirrels, etc. Diminishing this land further diminishes the resources for the wildlife in the area. Finally, using this property to put that many people will put a really heavy low on the utilities, and the infrastructure that exist in that area. This area is not built for that many people to be living in that small of a space. Also, it is a very odd place to put so many people. Those people need space to move about with vehicles, and that area is not built for that type of movement.Tiffany (37931), December 7, 2025 at 8:47 PM
Steve
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Steve (37849), December 7, 2025 at 8:59 PM
I would like to request that any approval to rezone this property on 7809 Heiskell Road for a multi family or condos which world increase traffic pulling out on Heiskell Rd. Near Country Run and Country Walk subdivisions be denied. I live at 7833 Heiskell Road and have had several occasions where people coming from Emory and Central Ave pike continuing north on Heiskell have had to slam on brakes, go onto grass area around a vehicle turning left into a home with current traffic patterns. Also, if you are trying to turn left or off a single family home onto Heiskell near Country Run you have to be careful that no one is speeding over the hill or turning toward Emory Road out of Country Run. With the planned I 75 exit 112 work that will be going on traffic on Heiskell will be heavier then it is currently. Please reconsider approving this request.Steve (37849), December 7, 2025 at 8:59 PM
Olivia
37924
37924
12-I-25-RZ
Olivia (37924), December 7, 2025 at 9:04 PM
This would make pulling in and out of my families homes incredibly difficult. It is already a busy intersection. Adding 50 more cars is ludicrous! Olivia (37924), December 7, 2025 at 9:04 PM
Sheila
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Sheila (37849), December 7, 2025 at 9:26 PM
This is already a very busy road and it is speedy extremely congrats with 2 subdivisions at the same location. I'm also concerned about property value going down with an apt complex.. That's why we purchased and built rural originally.Sheila (37849), December 7, 2025 at 9:26 PM
Madison
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Madison (37849), December 7, 2025 at 9:41 PM
The new subdivision being proposed is unnecessary. I live across the street from the proposed location in Country Run Subdivison, and the community is already full. Traffic is terrible almost any time of the day now, 7:30am-6pm basically, and it makes it hard to navigate anywhere in the community without getting stuck in traffic or a wreck. I believe this will be more negative than positive, and bring unneeded congestion that our community doesnt need. Madison (37849), December 7, 2025 at 9:41 PM
Rusty
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Rusty (37849), December 8, 2025 at 12:52 PM
In regards of the rezoning of 7809 Heiskell Road, I encourage those responsible for this potential zoning change to consider the existing eight subdivisions in the immediate area of 7809 Heiskell Road and the the existing traffic congestion from these subdivisions. Egress from Country Run and Country Walk Subdivisions for those traveling south on Heiskell Road from 7:15AM to around 8:00 or 8:30AM can be difficult due to the existing high volume of traffic traveling south. School buses and postal delivery vehicles further constrict the flow of traffic traveling south. For residents living on the west side of Heiskell Road, turning left across oncoming traffic also causes delays and presents a hazard due the "blind hill" at Country Run Subdivision which restricts views of north bound traffic. A vast majority of traffic traveling in both directions ignore posted speed limits which further increases the chances of wrecks and near misses. An additional subdivision/development at this location at this time appears to only add further congestion and hazardous conditions for existing residences in the immediate area. In recognition of the "blind hill" at Country Run Subdivision, the lack of a police presence enforcing speed limits, mail carriers and school buses making frequent stops and the lack of road width, turn lanes and visibility issues, this high density residential development should at least be postponed until said issues area fully addressed. Thank You.Rusty (37849), December 8, 2025 at 12:52 PM
Jerry
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Jerry (37849), December 8, 2025 at 1:31 PM
I am opposed to adding a subdivision across the street from Country Run Circle. The traffic is already more than what the road can handle especially when there are issues on the interstate. Heiskell road serves as an alternative to the interstate. This is compounded, that the area between Country Run Circle and Country Walk has a blind spot in both directions making it difficult to exit the existing subdivisions. Adding additional traffic in that area will make it that much more difficult.Jerry (37849), December 8, 2025 at 1:31 PM
Chuck
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Chuck (37849), December 8, 2025 at 3:15 PM
Please consider denying this parcel for a multi-family subdivision. Heiskell Road at the proposed site is already inundated with traffic and has limited visibility with traffic especially with the traffic flow coming North to South. With vehicles making a left turn into the proposed parcel it will add more safety concerns as one tops the hill coming from the North for the already congested area. In addition with the new development already under construction on Emory Road for the new multi-family subdivision and possible Retail on the front end along with the new Culver's Restaurant and the Converging Diamond Interchange Heiskell Road is not designed to take on the extra vehicles in its current design.Chuck (37849), December 8, 2025 at 3:15 PM
Brenda
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Brenda (37849), December 8, 2025 at 9:53 PM
I am a neighbor living in the area of this proposed development, and very much opposed to adding more homes on this property. Heiskell Rd. is not designed to handle the amount of traffic that is currently driven on this road. The proposed site of these additional homes would involve exiting at a blind hill, which would be very dangerous, not to mention almost directly across from two other subdivisions that already have a difficult time exiting from their locations. The infrastructure in the Powell area is being redesigned at the I-75 interchange which hopefully will eliminate some of the very dangerous traffic that currently exists on the interstate and Emory Rd. We need additional improvements to the infrastructure before adding more homes on Heiskell Road which already has a high number of accidents. Please vote No to this subdivision requestBrenda (37849), December 8, 2025 at 9:53 PM
Mike
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Mike (37849), December 9, 2025 at 6:53 AM
Frankly, I am stunned that this proposal is being considered, let alone recommended for approval. Have you personally visited the Heiskell Road area for which this development is proposed and witnessed the traffic other residents are describing? There are already well over 500 homes in this 3/4 mile stretch of road that are already taxing the roadways. Add to that the Emory Road interchange project as hundreds and hundreds of cars and trucks will daily exit I-75 at Raccoon Valley and pour down our road for well over a year.Mike (37849), December 9, 2025 at 6:53 AM
You will be extremely hard pressed to find any resident of the area that is in favor of this development. There could not be a more inappropriate place to locate a new residential development! It will become much more dangerous to get of and on to Heiskell Road at the crest of this blind hill.
Stopping proposals like this is why we have a planning board. Please take your responsibility for controlled growth seriously and vote NO on this proposal.
Joe
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Joe (37849), December 9, 2025 at 8:29 PM
In my judgment, I believe it is unwise to have a subdivision at this location. Heiskell Road is very busy, and at this location is a blind hill with two subdivisions across the street. This is unsafe to add a subdivision here. For public safety, vote no. Joe (37849), December 9, 2025 at 8:29 PM
Angela
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Angela (37849), December 10, 2025 at 9:43 AM
Hi- I am writing to make a suggestion if this proposed plan goes through. Right now, when heading toward Emory Road on Heiskell, the traffic backs up at the Emory Road traffic light. Adding more people and cars will exacerbate this problem. One solution that I think could help is if you put in a right turn lane on Heiskell at the light. As it is now, there's a left turn lane that allows people to go to the I-75 entrance and one other lane which can go straight (across Emory Road) or can turn right heading toward Powell High School, Powell Middle School, the Powell library, etc. This lane backs up very much because all it takes is one person going straight to back up every car that would need to turn right. Sometimes it can back up as far as this proposed development.Angela (37849), December 10, 2025 at 9:43 AM
By putting in a right turn lane, those people could turn right at the light, regardless if others are in line to go straight. This would clear out the traffic back up tremendously since so many turn right to go to the schools.
If this development passes, (or even if it doesn't) I would like for you to consider adding a right turn lane at the intersection of Heiskell Road and Emory Road.
Thank you.
Stephen
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Stephen (37849), December 10, 2025 at 10:05 PM
I am a resident of Country Run Subdivision. I am concerned about the close proximity of the new subdivision entrance to the existing Country Run subdivision entrance. It is already difficult to turn left onto Heiskell Road from Country Run Circle due to traffic congestion and the blind hill just south of the Country Run Circle entrance. This new subdivision entrance is positioned right between the Country Run entrance and the blind hill. I am very concerned that this location for the new subdivision entrance will create unsafe conditions for accessing Heiskell Road from Country Run Subdivision. I am very concerned that a substantial increase in the number of vehicle accidents and injuries at this location may occur. Stephen (37849), December 10, 2025 at 10:05 PM
Shannon
37931
37931
10-J-25-RZ
Shannon (37931), September 16, 2025 at 4:43 PM
Does the property have an easement just for TVA/ Power or is it public access? Can 2 vehicles pass each other up and down due to elevation? hillside protection area?Shannon (37931), September 16, 2025 at 4:43 PM
Betty Jo
37912
37912
7-P-24-RZ
Betty Jo (37912), July 8, 2024 at 12:26 PM
We agree wholeheartedly with Planning staff on denial of increasing the zoning on this property from single family to multi-family use. The Inskip area has been inundated with multi-family housing over the years. This would also increase the traffic on roads that have not been improved or updated in years. Please uphold staff's recommendation to not change the zoning or the plan amendments for this property. Betty Jo (37912), July 8, 2024 at 12:26 PM
Aneliya
37921
37921
10-J-25-RZ
Aneliya (37921), September 25, 2025 at 3:52 PM
This new potential road presents major concerns for our property. We have been battling extensive flooding of the property every time it rains creating continued erosion on a sloping hill. This new road will only make that issue worse. Is it going to be paved or gravel? Will there also be gravel washing into our property now? Additionally, the slope is significant, directly towards the house with a very sharp bend in it. This poses serious safety threat during weather events as cars will undoubtedly end up in our yard, if not even in the house. Last but not least, this will destroy any privacy this property has and likely result in significant property value drop. Aneliya (37921), September 25, 2025 at 3:52 PM
Kristy
37921
37921
10-J-25-RZ
Kristy (37921), September 29, 2025 at 3:52 PM
Has there been a traffic study done to see if the road can handle more traffic? In the early morning when kids have to walk down to the end of the road to catch the bus ( half mile either way) it is very dangerous. There is a lot of traffic on this road already and not sure if it can handle any more. Additionally will they be responsible for fixing the yards and driveway that they would have to go through?Kristy (37921), September 29, 2025 at 3:52 PM
Ashley
37921
37921
10-J-25-RZ
Ashley (37921), September 18, 2025 at 8:00 PM
Please see attached PDF file as message exceeds 1,000 characters.Ashley (37921), September 18, 2025 at 8:00 PM
View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20250918200030.pdf
Sarah
37849
37849
12-I-25-RZ
Sarah (37849), December 8, 2025 at 10:43 AM
I believe the proposed re-zoning is not well suited for this location on Heiskell Road and should only be approved after necessary infrastructure and safety improvements are completed.Sarah (37849), December 8, 2025 at 10:43 AM
As a resident of Country Run, I observe the challenging conditions at this location daily. The limited visibility from the hill, combined with the speed of traffic and current volume, has created a concerning situation precisely where this development would add its entrance.
The pedestrian safety issues are equally concerning. Heiskell Road completely lacks sidewalks, forcing anyone on foot to walk dangerously close to high-speed traffic. The same blind turns and hills that create driving hazards make it nearly impossible for pedestrians to be seen by approaching vehicles. This is particularly problematic considering the proposed multi-family housing, as residents of higher density housing typically walk more frequently than those in single-family homes.
Despite these hazards, the area has several destinations within walking distance that would naturally attract pedestrian traffic â Collier Nature Preserve, Kroger, and the Public Library. Without proper sidewalks, crosswalks, and traffic calming measures, we would be placing new residents in unnecessary danger when they attempt to access these amenities on foot.
View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20251208104332.pdf