July 10, 2025
Planning Commission meeting
Planning Commission meeting
Public Comments
99 Comments for 12-A-20-RZ and
Staff Notes
Applicant Correspondence
December 8, 2020
Please find attached correspondence on behalf of the applicant, Taylor D. Forrester o/b/o The Offices at St. Andrews, LLC
View AttachmentDecember 7, 2020
The applicant has applied for a rezoning for RN-6 zoning at this location. The differences between the residential zone districts can be reviewed here in the Knoxville Zoning Ordinance - https://library.municode.com/tn/knoxville/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=APXBZOCO_ART4RENEDI
Staff is recommending RN-5, rather than RN-6 at this location because RN-5 has a 35' feet height limitation. The greenway is an easement across the property and will remain on the property for the community to use, a rezoning does not eliminate the greenway.
MaryJane
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MaryJane (37931), December 1, 2020 at 12:37 PM
Please do not rezone this property. This is so beautiful for all families to enjoy this area with peaceful runs & walks for families, runners without over crowding. We need an area to continue to find some quiet peace & nature close to home & not over building. Please keep green for all people to enjoy. Thank you so much. Rachel
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Rachel (37909), December 1, 2020 at 5:05 PM
As a resident of West Hills who lives very close to this proposed rezoning, I am very concerned about the potential impact of this rezoning on the greenway that passes through this area. This greenway is heavily used by the community and is a major asset to the existing neighborhood. This is used as a safe space for children to walk and ride bikes. My 7 year old son and I have used this green space nearly every day during the pandemic. If the road is extended and a new neighborhood is built, it will change the character of the greenway dramatically. Further, the trees between the existing St. Andrew's neighborhood and the interstate are vital for noise absorption and pollution reduction. Please dont remove our green space and tree buffer.Diane December 1, 2020 at 7:52 PM
How sad to see that you are planning to take away another wooded area in west Knoxville! Between all the construction on Middlebrook Pike and a subdivision being built on Broome Road and other areas I’m not aware of, there is nowhere wildlife can live. Building apartments or homes along the Greenway between West Hills Baptist and West End Church of Christ is a terrible idea. Not only will wildlife be invaded, it is a well used quiet area to walk. There is seldom a time of the day that no one is walking, jogging, or biking. Please,please, please don’t invade another area with apartments or homes just to get tax money!Kim
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Kim (37931), December 2, 2020 at 7:44 AM
Please do not disrupt the greenway used by hundred of people. We have so many locations with unused buildings or underdeveloped property- we can surely be smarter about reusing underutilized space and not destroy our well loved greenways!Steven
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Steven (37923), December 2, 2020 at 10:07 AM
My wife and I (and many others) use the greenway in this area. If the rezoning would result in the shrinking or elimination of that portion of the greenway, we'd be opposed to it. Greenways and greenspaces are a valuable part of any community and their loss would both diminish the appeal of the area and likely the property values of the nearby homes. Also, the schools in this area are at capacity. If new apartment buildings will be erected in this area, they will overcrowd the schools or necessitate another round of redistricting. Therefore, we are opposed to a zoning change in this area.Amanda
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Amanda (37923), December 2, 2020 at 2:01 PM
Please do not rezone this land! I am a homeowner in the area and the apartments that are already here are not helping property values and are eyesores. The traffic through local residential neighborhoods continues to increase (crestwood hills and west hills) without regard for infrastructure or concern for residents. This is NOT a viable location for apartments! Anna
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Anna (37909), December 2, 2020 at 2:41 PM
Please keep the green way. It is widely used by people. George
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George (37909), December 2, 2020 at 2:46 PM
I am very opposed to this proposed development. It seems as if this will disrupt/destroy the greenway that runs through that area. This is a highly used greenway and it would be terrible to have it destroyed for an office park. This is especially true given the uncertain future of work once the current pandemic is behind us. More and more employers are realizing that physical office space represents an unnecessary cost. It is not certain whether Knoxville is in need of more commercial office space. If you glance at the Knoxville commercial realty landscape, there are ample vacancies in the current supply of office space. Why destroy an untouched space to build an office park that will largely sit vacant? In other areas of the city (e.g., South Knoxville), we are prioritizing untouched natural areas. Why is this not considered in West Knoxville, where these types of locations are becoming increasingly rare?Personally, I run on this greenway - and past this exact area - multiple times a week. The presence of this greenway and West Hills park were a huge consideration in purchasing my home. So this proposed development would have a huge impact on me and I do not want to see it come into fruition.
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Tammy ( 3790), December 2, 2020 at 3:49 PM
Please keep greenway green!!!! Please do not take it away!Nance
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Nance (37923), December 2, 2020 at 4:11 PM
Please keep this greenway GREEN & SERENE!My vote is to reject rezoning for an apartment complex.Walter December 2, 2020 at 4:46 PM
Saw that there was an upcoming vote about some rezoning near the greenway in West hills near the church of Christ . I would really hate to see that developed for condos or office buildings. After all , they are called greenways not sidewalks for condos . I actually saw two deer last week in the woods there. I would bet Wanda Moody , who it is named for , would not approve of a change that would allow development.Amy
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Amy (37909), December 2, 2020 at 4:52 PM
That area is heavily wooded and helps protect the neighborhood from the noise of the interstate. It also keeps down the traffic and the area proposed certainly doesn't need more traffic. The road infrastructure is not built to handle an increase in traffic and the area is already above TDOT noise ordinance standards without taking down trees and increasing traffic. While Knoxville certainly needs more housing, housing complexes out West are not in the price range of affordability for the population that needs housing the most.Elizabeth
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Elizabeth (37909), December 2, 2020 at 5:24 PM
Please keep the greenway green. No apartments. Stop Oliver Smith. Yes Eileen
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Eileen (37909), December 2, 2020 at 10:59 PM
This community is lovingly settled around this greenway. We all enjoy it and get great use of it year round. There are plenty of residences here. We do not need less recreational space. Cynthia
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Cynthia (37909), December 2, 2020 at 11:53 PM
One of the main reasons my husband and I bought out “empty nest” house in West Hills three years ago was to be near the greenway. The easy access to the greenway and West Hills Park is a huge benefit for residents of nearby neighborhoods. I ride my bike 4-5 times per week from my house on Sheffield to the Peters Rd terminus of the Greenway then back to Wesley Rd. I see many of the same families every day. I would certainly hope that this proposed development would not affect the existing greenway in any way. Losing any piece of this very popular segment of the greenway would a shame. Please consider this as you make your decisions. Ashley
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Ashley (37909), December 3, 2020 at 5:47 AM
Absolutely not in favor. Please leave alone the natural beauty of this area. These luxury apartments will do not favors to the crowded, heavily trafficked cut throughs we face on Marlboro, Cortland, Winston..... There are many of places that need rehabbed in this city. Go tear down the many dumps along Middle Brooke or KP and start there, not along a beautiful green space. Bryan
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Bryan (37909), December 3, 2020 at 6:04 AM
The stretch of greenway that this would effect is some of the most scenic and beautiful areas in our entire city. To wipe out all of that to put another apartment complex in would be terrible for our city, our parks, and the people that live here. The current volume of apartments that are unoccupied in that area would dictate we won't need another apartment complex in this space.Keep Knoxville Scruff!
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Kathleen (d 379), December 3, 2020 at 6:18 AM
The greenway is a vital part of the West Hills neighborhood. My kiddos have learned to ride their bikes there, it is always full of neighbors finding a little peace in nature, and I really can’t imagine if it was destroyed in any way by the construction. Please, talk a walk or bike ride through that part and see how beautiful and calm it is. Apartments or office buildings butting right up to it would destroy a special part of our neighborhood. Brooke
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Brooke (37909), December 3, 2020 at 7:11 AM
We want to keep this area a greenway and walking trail for our families. Leave our west hills neighborhood and park alone!Adam
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Adam (37909), December 3, 2020 at 8:08 AM
Please consider keeping this property as is. It is a great stretch of peaceful greenway which many people utilize on a very regular basis. This particular stretch of greenway provides a great peaceful natural refuge from an otherwise busy stretch of Knoxville. Destroying this section of greenway for further development would only add to the traffic madness near that area of Walker Springs. Jeanne
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Jeanne (37909), December 3, 2020 at 9:53 AM
I grew up in West Hills and moved back to raise my family in West Hills 7 years ago. I remember being in elementary school at West Hills when they expanded the greenway so we could ride our bikes and venture even further on the paved trail. We were so thrilled! My 2 daughters, ages 3 and 7, both learned to ride their own bikes on the West Hills greenway 25 years later! As a family we walk, ride, scoot and stroll the greenway at least twice a week! Losing this space would be devastating to my family. The West Hills greenway and park has become a staple of our community and should remain unchanged! Thank you for your consideration in this matter.Jan
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Jan (37909), December 3, 2020 at 11:48 AM
I cannot imagine our lovely greenway being disrupted by adjacent apartment buildings. This greenway is a beautiful, peaceful respite from the pavement, parking lots, traffic all through west Knoxville. I urge you to reject approval for this construction and allow NATURE to have a small sanctuary in our neighborhood. We have already seen an increase of deer, Fox and coyotes in West Hills since the construction of the Tennova facility on Middlebrook Pike. Removing these trees and undergrowth will further limit their habitats. And, even more important, these stands of trees and vegetation provide a natural sound barrier between our neighborhood and the I-40/I-75 corridor. No concrete wall offers the esthetics of natural vegetation. Our lovely West Hills area has already lost more than was necessary to noisy, interstate traffic. Enough!Chelsea
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Chelsea (37909), December 3, 2020 at 12:48 PM
I am opposed to this development as a resident of West Hills and a regular user of the beautiful greenway. I think the greenway is a huge asset to our community and to mess with it and the nature around it will certainly devalue it. In addition traffic has already increased during my time living in this area I cannot imagine what adding even more will do. I think we should do a better job utilizing unused or underutilized apartments building/office spaces instead of developing greenspace that is well loved by those throughout the Knoxville community.Jennifer
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Jennifer (37931), December 3, 2020 at 1:19 PM
I used to live in the apartment complex right next to this proposed site. It was such a nice getaway when I could use the amazing Knoxville greenway system to access green areas and some quiet spaces. It's disgusting that building another complex at the proposed sire would even be considered. Please allow area residents to continue to have a SMALL area of refugee in the midst of an already jam-packed West Knoxville.Sean
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Sean (37909), December 3, 2020 at 1:51 PM
Green spaces are just as important to the residents as businesses are important for tax revenue. In an ever expanding concrete city. We need to relish and enjoy the green ways that are in place. Currently this greenway is a link from the Bearden/west hills area to those areas I consider west. One can get all the way to Lovell rd on greenways, I’ve been told. I personally have not tried that. What ever development is to be developed should first off be aesthetically pleasing to the area it is in. Get away from the Walmart look of commercialism. Take in the beauty of East Tennessee, the small town feel and charm and incorporate the green way into the new development with native plants to attract birds and building with character, maybe a little mountain town type character for the valley. Keep the greenway. For the next generations. Kayla
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Kayla (37923), December 3, 2020 at 5:40 PM
The connection of the greenway from West Hills church to West Hills park is very important to the preservation of the landscape, and is essential for so many people. By taking away the forest separating the greenway and the highway, you lose a piece of Knoxville for profit. The nature brings out the best of Knoxville; a steady hike while gaining a sense of community. The highlight of my day is taking an hour to get out of the house and stroll down that path, sometimes extending it into the park. It would be a shame to take away such an important part of this community to give it away to a company that is not concerned about preserving the habitat. Barbara
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Barbara (37909), December 4, 2020 at 10:00 AM
The greenway upon which this backs up is one of West Knoxville's lovely attractions. It should not be allow to ruin this . This project will definitely detract from this wonderful asset.Nick
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Nick (37909), December 4, 2020 at 1:24 PM
I live in Saint Andrews subdivision. Before you lies a proposal to rezone Parcel 120HC06, recorded as The Offices at Saint Andrews at 8300 East Walker Springs Ln on KGIS. This is a property that’s been zoned Office Park for over 3 decades and directly abuts our wonderful neighborhood. I, Nick Jackson, as well as the residents of Saint Andrews neighborhood ask you to do the right thing and vote NO to this rezoning. It’s the wrong decision, and would be done solely to benefit the developer at the expense of our entire neighborhood and hundreds of tax paying Knoxvillians. It is zoned office park for good reason, and is the only reasonable use of that land given the constraints around it. MPC should not and cannot allow developers to change zoning and eliminate all buffers to Saint Andrews (SA). This is a lovely area and has been here for 20+ years. The neighborhood is an asset to the City and is a veritable small 4th and Gill environment right off the West Town exit. These are the environments you should be cultivating and protecting. Make no mistake about it – a dense apartment complex will destroy Saint Andrews Subdivision as it exists today and adversely affect the entire area.
View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20201204132407.pdf
Josh
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Josh (37909), December 4, 2020 at 1:52 PM
Please keep our greenways green! I live in West Hills and run/walk/bike this greenway several times per week, along with my family. This is one of the few 'green' places left in our area. There are actually deer who live in that area - you can see them most mornings grazing around West End Church of Christ. I love where I live -- we need less development, and more areas like this lot along our greenways. Building here will only take away from the appeal of this area, and make the traffic in an already-congested area worse. Please do not develop this green space.Will
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Will (37909), December 4, 2020 at 2:15 PM
Please do not rezone the land under review today. The greenway that goes through West Hills is beautiful and used by so many people right now. If the zoning is changed it would rob us of the nature we get to experience on the greenway. We have so many wonderful trees and great animal life through that section of the greenway. It also provides a buffer from the sound of the interstate and existing homes, not to mention the greenway. I understand that we need to provide enough adequate housing for folks in our city, but please do not change the zoning of the land in question. Richard
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Richard (37919), December 4, 2020 at 3:06 PM
Please do not rezone the land that is being reviewed. The West Hills greenway is beautiful and used by many many many people, including singles, families, adults, children, and their pets. For many it's the only green space left they can enjoy. The land and greenery also form a buffer that insulates residents and visitors from the sound of the traffic and residential life.
Hiram December 4, 2020 at 3:36 PM
I am opposed to the proposal File # 12-A-20-RZ to rezone the portion of West Hills from OP (Office Park) to RN-6 (Multi-Family Residential Neighborhood). The addition of 216 new apartments and 5300 average vehicle trips per day will be a burden on the West Hills neighborhood and a detriment to those living there now.View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20201204153607.pdf
Lynn
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Lynn (37909), December 4, 2020 at 4:47 PM
I am 100% against commercial construction within or close to this greenway zone. From a community perspective, this greenway provides nature within the city and county. It is important for the community to have easy access to nature on a daily basis. From a personal perspective, one year ago I purchased my home within walking distance of this greenway. I do not have the budget to purchase a secluded home surrounded by nature, but I do have the budget to purchase a home in the city close to this greenway. This angers me that a developer takes precedence over the desires of the community. I am tired of the rich getting richer while the middle class disappears. There are plenty of locations available within Knox County that do not disturb the community. PLEASE DO NOT APPROVE RN-5. Cheryl December 5, 2020 at 3:40 PM
Please don’t build apartments at the 3600 Walker Springs. It will be too close to the green way walking area. My friends and I walk this area all the time. It will distract from the beauty of the area. Perhaps build offices or something less intrusive than apartments.Ann
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Ann (37923), December 5, 2020 at 5:57 PM
This land should not be re-zoned. Currently it holds a greenway and park areas that are used daily by hundreds of locals. My husband and I personally use the area to walk our dogs. Especially during this pandemic, being outdoors and having access to the area has been vital to our mental health and I’m sure to the mental health of many others in the area. Don’t take away our greenway!Jewl
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Jewl (37909), December 5, 2020 at 6:02 PM
To all whom it concerns,It is of great concern that this area in West Hills which is zoned as corporate is now being considered for an apartment complex: West HIlls and specifically St. Andrews, a small church, and the greenway border this area which is enjoyed by all of the city. An apartment complex would greatly reduce safety, decrease property value, and greatly increase noise from I-40, all reducing the enjoyment of hundreds of people who currently use this area!
Also, West Hills people have not been properly informed!
Please consider turning down or at least postponing this proposition!
Ernest
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Ernest (37909), December 5, 2020 at 6:22 PM
The proposal is very new to several of the residents that would be affected. The decision should be postponed. Katie
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Katie (37909), December 6, 2020 at 9:24 AM
The Greenway adjacent to this property is a valuable resource to the community. As a family, we walk this past frequently, it is close to the park and Y, and provides a much needed natural and physically active outlet for many members of the community in a centrally located space. Its lose would be detrimental to Knoxville, and as a result, I request that you reject the rezoning proposal. Lisa
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Lisa (37909), December 6, 2020 at 12:49 PM
I request that you vote NO to the File # 12-A-20-RZ to rezone the portion of West Hills from OP (Office Park) to RN-6 (Multi-Family Residential Neighborhood). I have checked the information provided for the Planning Commission meeting concerning this rezoning, and I do not see a storm water analysis for the proposed building area. My home and several homes in Saint Andrews have had some flooding issues this past year due to the overgrowth of the retention area between Saint Andrews and the proposed building site. I would like to see what the city/county recommends that the developer do prior to build/during build/after the build for storm water runoff. This is especially important to me because of our current issues with water flow during storms and stagnant water during the summer months (mosquitos). The developer does not have a good history of following through on his promises - including using this property for an office complex only. I am also concerned with destroying greenspace, the buffer for noise from I40, and the large volume of traffic that this RN-6 rezoning will add to the West Hills/North Gallaher View area.View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20201206124931.pdf
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Janis (37923), December 6, 2020 at 1:16 PM
I am against this rezoning. I often walk the greenway path and appreciate the serenity it provides. In addition I feel it would cause major traffic problems due to the close proximity of the I40 exit ramp, Walbrook Drive, Sam’s entrance and East Walker Springs Lane. Please vote no. Kris
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Kris (37919), December 6, 2020 at 2:31 PM
We love to walk at this trail because it is a central location, quiet & secluded & is safe. Please don't force us to find somewhere else to walk. We need this trail to remain as it is.Katherine
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Katherine (37923), December 6, 2020 at 4:33 PM
Please do not rezone this area to add apartments. The development would encroach on the greenway that many residents in the area use. It has become clear, especially during this year, that the greenway sees a lot of use and folks take enjoyment from being able to walk safely through the area and enjoy a little bit of nature and peace close to home. The development will add too much to the noise and traffic that are not needed. Please do not allow this area to be rezoned or developed.Bryan and Ashlee
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Bryan and Ashlee (37909), December 6, 2020 at 9:39 PM
Please see attached letter.View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20201206213942.pdf
Jennifer December 7, 2020 at 12:29 AM
Thank you for your service to our community. I know you are busy and I will keep this short.I am writing regarding the hearing to rezone 8300 E. Walker Springs Lane / Parcel ID 120 H C 061. The week of Thanksgiving we received a postcard about rezoning. In case you have not had the opportunity to personally look at the land, I have included pictures that show the reality for my family if this rezoning is approved. It will mean apartments could be in my backyard (see proposed diagram below), nearly literally, and seen from my kitchen sink. We have lived in Saint Andrews since 2010 and always anxiously awaited when Mr. Smith would build office space, which also creates concerns, but apartments will have a much greater negative impact on our daily life. Apartments would not be appropriate here, they just do not fit in. The space has been zoned for offices since 2004 and there are no good reasons for a change now. I understand this is inconvenient for Mr. Smith with the pandemic hurting office space development but an apartment complex directly behind a beautifully established neighborhood is not right.
Please vote No. I greatly appreciate your thoughtful consideration.
View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20201207002952.pdf
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Darren (37919), December 7, 2020 at 8:53 AM
I run the greenway in this area every morning and it is so beautiful and serene, I would hate for anything to change.Leslie December 7, 2020 at 9:08 AM
I live in West Hills and I speak for at least a dozen families who all oppose rezoning. Please help protect our neighborhood.Thank you.Staff
Staff Notes
December 7, 2020 at 9:19 AM
The applicant has applied for a rezoning for RN-6 zoning at this location. The differences between the residential zone districts can be reviewed here in the Knoxville Zoning Ordinance - https://library.municode.com/tn/knoxville/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=APXBZOCO_ART4RENEDIDecember 7, 2020 at 9:19 AM
Staff is recommending RN-5, rather than RN-6 at this location because RN-5 has a 35' feet height limitation. The greenway is an easement across the property and will remain on the property for the community to use, a rezoning does not eliminate the greenway.
staff
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Nick (37909), December 7, 2020 at 9:30 AM
Please find attached a summary of my talking points for Thu Dec 10 meeting. I ask that these be distributed to voting PC members before Tuesday's agenda review meeting. These cover the many issues with this proposal and why we feel MPC should vote no to the rezoning. They include the complete absence of any public input or review of all these obvious impacts, inconsistencies with MPC code and our disagreement with staff recommendation that there the amendment "shall not adversely affect any other part of the city or surrounding properties. In addition, please note the comment that during Mr Smith's 2004 rezoning of same property to Office he stated an Apartment Complex would not be in the best interest of Saint Andrews.View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20201207093046.pdf
Kim December 7, 2020 at 10:29 AM
What kind of buffer zone will remain and how deep will it be to maintain the integrity (visual and noise) and quiet wooded ambiance of the greenway?I'd venture this is one of the most-used and loved greenways in the city. Please keep in mind the greenways are one the few free, close-in, outdoor amenties this city has to offer to one of the unhealthiest populations in the country. Do we really need to ruin a greenway for another apartment complex? Of course not.
I do not agree with this property being developed in a dense manner close to the greenway. This city should buy up an approprate buffer zone and protect its precious greenspace.
Staff Reply:
The applicant has applied for a rezoning for RN-6 zoning at this location. The differences between the residential zone districts can be reviewed here in the Knoxville Zoning Ordinance - https://library.municode.com/tn/knoxville/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=APXBZOCO_ART4RENEDI
Staff is recommending RN-5, rather than RN-6 at this location because RN-5 has a 35' feet height limitation. The greenway is an easement across the property and will remain on the property for the community to use, a rezoning does not eliminate the greenway.
The applicant has applied for a rezoning for RN-6 zoning at this location. The differences between the residential zone districts can be reviewed here in the Knoxville Zoning Ordinance - https://library.municode.com/tn/knoxville/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=APXBZOCO_ART4RENEDI
Staff is recommending RN-5, rather than RN-6 at this location because RN-5 has a 35' feet height limitation. The greenway is an easement across the property and will remain on the property for the community to use, a rezoning does not eliminate the greenway.
Christine December 7, 2020 at 1:14 PM
My family and I are residents of the Saint Andrews Residential Community which abuts the land parcel 12-A-20-RZ that is currently zoned as OP (Office Park). We moved here from South Florida, a place with very few green spaces and millions of people living nearly on top of one another, in the summer of 2019.View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20201207131443.pdf
Fred
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Fred (37909), December 7, 2020 at 2:08 PM
Planing Commission MembersI have a serious concern about the proposed 200 unit apartment complex adjacent to the Saint Andrews neighborhood.
My name is Fred Trainer Sr. and I have lived in Saint Andrews since 1998. We have always been concerned about the development of this piece of property because of already existing water drainage problems, excessive noise from the interstate traffic and the environmental detriment of the existing walking trail. In addition, all the homeowners on Glenrothes Blvd backing up to the project would have a serious problem with privacy in their backyard. All of this would result in a serious devaluation of property values in our neighborhood.
Of course we prefer not to have any project developed on this piece of property but the very worst type of development would be a large apartment complex.
We appeal to all members of the Planning Commission to protect us from the proposed apartment complex.
David
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David (37909), December 7, 2020 at 2:41 PM
Dear planning board,
As a resident of West Hills, I strongly oppose the request to rezone this property. The greenway that will be affected runs next to my neighborhood and I want to keep it GREEN and SERENE (as per the slogan). Noise is already a serious problem from the interstate and a rezone will not help. While I realize that I cannot prevent the developer from building on the property within his already approved rights, I will not stand by to allow even higher density usage to occur (such as apartment buildings). I and my neighbors will be paying close attention to this vote and will be prepared to help elect new city officials if this rezone is approved.
Sincerely,
David JenkinsNick
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Nick (37909), December 7, 2020 at 3:14 PM
Please see attached letter as a PDFView Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20201207151412.pdf
Tonia
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Tonia (37909), December 7, 2020 at 3:42 PM
I am opposed to this plan. The Jean Teague Greenway was a large reason why we bought our home. It gave me a safe place to walk with my young daughter. Having an apartment complex running along an entire stretch of the Greenway will go a long way in destroying those feelings of security for many. Also, no one in my community has been notified of this change that will obviously affect them. No one has had a chance to learn about this new development or ask questions. I don't feel that rezoning a part of our neighborhood during the holidays and during a pandemic is a professional way to go about this. The community deserves to have a voice on this.
Adrienne December 7, 2020 at 4:33 PM
Please vote no on the rezoning of the land behind St. Andrews Subdivision. An apartment complex adjacent to a single family neighborhood is not appropriate. It will have an adverse affect on my home life … noise, privacy, school crowding, etc.I am a senior citizen and most of my savings is invested in my home at 207 Kirkwall Lane, and I cannot afford to have it jeopardized.
Thanking you in advance …
Joy December 7, 2020 at 5:16 PM
Good Afternoon. I do not believe that to rezone this area is congruent for our West Hills neighborhood. I do not understand the rush to do this during a pandemic. Our school is already overcrowded as evidenced by the aging portable buildings. Our wildlife has been displaced. I saw a beautiful large buck on a small grassy area last week at the condominiums on Broome Rd. This is not an appropriate area for an apartment complex.Thank you. Mark
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Mark (37909), December 7, 2020 at 5:24 PM
re zoning from commecial to wouldn't be beneficial to St Andrews in many ways. first off flooding see photo from this spring. secondly the increased noise level of the interstate with the trees & vegitation cut down and also lights and traffic from an apartment complex will certainly be a negitive empact on the neighborhood ! Please vote NO to rezoning!Jewl
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Jewl (37909), December 7, 2020 at 6:09 PM
We have HUGE concerns about the possibility of putting an apartment complex in this area next to the Jean Teague greenway, West Hills Park, St. Andrews subdivision, 2 churches, and West Hills neighborhood in general for these reasons:- Apartments are not compatible with 57 single family homes next door in the $400+k range- No real analysis has been taken into consideration for the project with the exception of a traffic study- We request…no, we DEMAND that a Stormwater study be done before ANY development or rezoning of that property- In 2004, when Oliver Smith himself requested that the MPC rezone that property to offices -- Oliver's own representative said he didn’t feel apartments were appropriate for that property.
Please DO NOT APPROVE!!
Megan December 7, 2020 at 6:30 PM
I oppose the rezoning of Office Space to Apartment Complex at 8300 Walker Springs. I use the greenway every day and think if you rezone it, you will ruin the natural beauty that is present.Megan December 7, 2020 at 6:30 PM
I oppose the rezoning of Office Space to Apartment Complex at 8300 Walker Springs. I use the greenway every day and think if you rezone it, you will ruin the natural beauty that is present.Mike
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Mike (37909), December 7, 2020 at 7:10 PM
My wife and I were married in 1999 and immediately built our dream home in St. Andrews subdivision. We particularly loved the location because of its access to so many great places, but particularly because of its access to the Greenway which runs Directly behind our home. The beauty of the trees and the people walking and riding bikes has been a joy to us since day one. We are asking that you do not take this away from so many people and particularly those of us that have grown to love this neighborhood and area. I do not think Knoxville needs any more office , space particularly in this time that where more and more people are now able to work from home. Rezoning of this property Just this does not make sense In the destruction of beautiful land and the destruction of so many property owners land and home value. Thank you for your time and attention on this matter.Connie
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Connie (37909), December 7, 2020 at 7:18 PM
We are opposed to the rezoning of the West Hills Greenway behind our homes on Glenrothes Blvd. the Greenway has been our favorite part of living in this community. It is life giving to our neighborhood and so many use this for exercise and meditation daily. It would be a tragic loss for many friends and neighbors in our area as well as many pets and animals. It is a sanctuary to those of us who have enjoyed it for many years and seasons.
Rob
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Rob (37909), December 7, 2020 at 7:33 PM
This refining should be denied, or at the very least tabled/delayed until more information is gathered and analyzed. Storm water runoff has been historically an issue and how this property is developed will potentially further impact existing residential neighboring properties. More analysis is warranted before refining. Additionally, rezoning this parcel to large apartment complex will potentially adversely impact the neighborhood school with overcrowding. Noise from the highway is another detrimental impact rezoning this land could have on the surrounding land owners. Also, the owner of the parcel requesting the rezoning argued 15 years ago that the property was better suited for office space in lieu of apartments which were problematic to the neighboring residential subdivision. His present rezoning request flys in the face of his previous rezoning request 15 years ago. Lastly, the timing and nature of how this rezoning application appears suspicious in that sufficient notification did not seem to be provided that would allow the impacted neighbors to gather information regarding specific detrimental impacts. Based on the above you should deny the rezoning at this time. Hurley December 7, 2020 at 7:33 PM
I am opposed to the rezoning initiative. We chose to be patient and purchase in West Hills because of the maturity of the neighborhood and feeling comfortable about all it had available to the community. We knew there would not be any new roads or new gigantic projects to change West Hills. Hearing about trying to squeeze in an apartment complex sounds like there will be a high increase of traffic, noise and potentially more flooding. Please rethink this idea and allow this area to remain the same.Ashley
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Ashley (37909), December 7, 2020 at 7:47 PM
As I was heading to drop my daughter off at WH Baptist Preschool, I noticed your rezoning poster. This is of concern for me for our West Hills Elementary where I am a teacher. We already have very large classroom numbers and have teachers teaching in very old portables. Portables are not an ideal learning environment and a large family apartment complex would only seem to add to this problem, as well as, crowding our classrooms more. Please consider a different location for your work efforts. Thank you for listening to the concerns of your community. Kari
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Kari (37909), December 7, 2020 at 8:03 PM
Please vote no to the upcoming rezoning of this area, or at the very least postpone the decision until a proper meeting can take place between Mr. Smith and the residents of St. Andrew's neighborhood. I strongly believe the change of the zoning will have a negative impact on our neighborhood and the West Hills community. As a seventeen-year resident of St. Andrews neighborhood, I feel the change in zoning would have a negative impact on homes in the area, specifically the residents backing up to the property. Over the years, I have seen more than a dozen times when the flooding from the drain easement/catch basin cannot keep up with the demands. (Water comes from the proposed property, the park, and church property). The overflowing water has reached our homes, garages, and even Glenrothes Blvd numerous times bringing debris, damage, and displaced animals. In addition to flooding issues, the new zoning classification would lead to more noise, light pollution, and traffic congestion.
The change in zoning will have a negative impact on the zoned schools. As a current Knox County educator and former West Hills Elementary teacher, I know firsthand that our elementary, middle, and high schools are overcrowded and stretched thin for resources needed by children in our community. Currently, there are no plans to build any additional schools in this area. The addition 400-600 apartment homes would cause this problem to escalate.
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Michelle (d Dr), December 7, 2020 at 8:39 PM
I walk this area with my friend every Saturday. I do not see how an apartment complex is suitable directly beside a neighborhood.Mahogany
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Mahogany (37909), December 7, 2020 at 8:53 PM
I oppose the rezoning request. The greenway abutting the St. Andrews subdivision is one of the few green spaces left in this part of town and is enjoyed by residents not only of the West Hills community, but of the city of Knoxville generally. Turning the requested area into apartments will increase traffic (pedestrian and automotive), noise (especially from the interstate, which currently has a small buffer from the trees and undeveloped zone), and further burden the drainage basin behind the St. Andrews subdivision, which floods regularly. I don't believe sufficient studies have been done on the effect the change of zoning would have on this area. Time is needed for proper evaluation of whether the rezoning and proposed development is appropriate or even desirable for this community. If the property must be rezoned residential, it should be rezoned for single family housing. Even if apartments are required, a smaller apartment complex, with proposed tree buffer separating the apartments from the residential homes would be an improvement over the proposed plan. As it stands, the proposed rezoning and development would be detrimental to the West Hills community.Brian
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Brian (37909), December 7, 2020 at 9:46 PM
My family and I have been residents in Saint Andrews since 2004, and I can honestly say I cant imagine having any office or apts being zoned along the greenway facing our subdivision. We see so much flooding already due to heavy rains. My friend Mark has been flooded out about 10 times since we have lived here and I can not imagine what the water run off from any parking lot would do to the homes in our subdivision. One year I saw the water rise so high it wrapped around three houses , jumped the road, crossed over another empty lot and back into the waterway. Our property value would decline rapidly if more homes were flooded out by excessive water runoff. More studies really need to be done to move forward with any develpoment of Oliver Smiths land. Our homes and property values are at stake here. Please vote no for this new zoning.John
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John (37909), December 7, 2020 at 10:04 PM
We have serious concerns about the planned Re zoning from office complex to multiple apartment complexes. The latter would be far less compatible with the St. Andrews subdivision where homes are generally in the 400K+ range. This very sentiment was expressed by Oliver Smith’s representative when zoning for office space was obtained in 2004.Before any development occurs it would be imperative to have a well done stormwater study be done as many adjacent properties have been repeatedly flooded after intense storms. This is likely to be exacerbated by further deforestation and building. Updated traffic noise studies and the need for extension of the Interstate sound barrier wall should also be studied.. Finally it should be noted that it is a particularly beautiful portion of the West Hills Greenway that will be affected by construction of any sort on the property in question and very careful consideration should be given to preserving as much of this natural beauty as possible if any building is undertaken here. We respectfully request that the MPC vote NO in response to the application for rezoning of the property for apartment complex construction.Meredith
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Meredith (37909), December 7, 2020 at 10:20 PM
As a homeowner in Saint Andrews subdivision we are very concerned about the talk of apartments going in behind the Greenway just adjacent to our neighborhood. This will have an adverse affect on the value of our homes, not to mention traffic, noise, privacy, school crowding, destruction of the beautiful nature and animal habitats beside the greenway, etc. We would sincerely appreciate your voting against such a development to preserve the sanctity of our area.
Thank you!!
The Mackay FamilySue
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Sue (37909), December 7, 2020 at 11:00 PM
Please do not destroy the greenway which runs behind several houses in the St. Andrews subdivision. That greenway is used by hundreds of people and pets everyday. To destroy it would be to seriously affect the well being of many people. In addition, rezoning/and or construction of apartments in the area adjacent to the greenway could seriously impact the value of the homes in the subdivision. Those homes are valued at 400+. The two are not compatible. There may also be some serious drainage issues that could be affected by the construction of a complex of any kind in that area. Please do not take away any part of our greenway!
Jennifer
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Jennifer (37909), December 7, 2020 at 11:06 PM
I’m very concerned about the proposal to rezone this area adjacent to my neighborhood. When the trees were first cut down between the greenway and the church behind my house the interstate noise increased significantly which we were very upset about. This proposal to rezone from proposed office space to apartments this would negatively affect the 57 single family homes, the flooding that already occurs in our backyard when it storms , the number of students in the area schools, the traffic in the area and the overall quality of life in our subdivision. Please vote no to this. Leland
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Leland (37909), December 7, 2020 at 11:11 PM
I am writing to you this evening to respectfully request that you grant a 30- to 60-day postponement of hearing this request to rezone the property abutting the south bounds of the St. Andrews subdivision in West Hills.Many residents are just learning about this proposed change from a planned office park to an apartment complex.
With the distractions of COVID-19 and the holidays, many St. Andrews homeowners are worried that the developer is taking advantage of the circumstances to rush this though approval with minimum response from the community. As a part of the West Hills community, the West Hills Community Association shares an interest in the development of this property and how it may impact our community in general and our neighbors in St. Andrews in particular.
Since the property has been on the market as a potential office park for more than two decades, it is hard to imagine what harm would come from granting a possible one- or two-month postponement of this hearing to allow the neighborhood to become better informed and to possibly host a community meeting with the developer via Zoom or other appropriate means.
Thank you in advance for your thoughtful consideration.
Basil and Joni
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Basil and Joni (37909), December 8, 2020 at 6:19 AM
We oppose the rezoning of the proposed St Andrews flood zone area to any more residential uses due to its already hazardous flooding and the loss of trees.
Instead of removing more trees, we suggest adding trees to this buffer zone to improve the atmosphere for all citizens and visitors to this area.Robert
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Robert (37909), December 8, 2020 at 8:45 AM
I have lived in this house for around 15 years. We are longtime members of the neighborhood church behind our house. It would be terrible to have hundreds of cars driving beside our church and within a stones throw of my yard. We have always anticipated office space, three-story apartments are totally inappropriate.
We are completely opposed to rezoning.
Fannie
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Fannie (37909), December 8, 2020 at 9:49 AM
I am very opposed to apartments being built near the greenway at West Hills. This cannot happen! This was shut down several years ago and needs to happen again. James
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James (37909), December 8, 2020 at 10:47 AM
I have lived in this part of West Hills for over 30 years. The Jean Teague Greenway has very much improved the quality of life in this neighborhood. Please don't allow its beauty to be destroyed by, in effect, having it end up in the back yard or much worse, adjacent and visible to a housing complex parking lot! Please do not approve this rezoning application. Thank You.Boyd December 8, 2020 at 11:24 AM
I am total opposed to this rezoning which is not appropriate for this neighborhood. It would have a severe impact of the quality of life for the residents of St Andrews and most of West Hills. Flooding is already a major problem and this would not help. Let’s keep things green as the greenway was planned for.Applicant
Applicant Correspondence
December 8, 2020 at 11:30 AM
Please find attached correspondence on behalf of the applicant, Taylor D. Forrester o/b/o The Offices at St. Andrews, LLC December 8, 2020 at 11:30 AM
View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20201208113024.pdf
applicant
Jeff
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Jeff (37922), December 8, 2020 at 12:03 PM
I walk the green way every day during lunch it is beautiful please reserve a part of Knoxville that is so inviting to this neighborhood in to other communities into those who are considering making Knoxville their homeBowe
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Bowe (37909), December 8, 2020 at 12:16 PM
My wife and I recently moved to the beautiful Saint Andrew’s Subdivision in October. One of the main reasons we chose this house was its access to the beautiful greenway. We use it almost every day! Adding any kind of apartment complex would undoubtedly lead to damage of the greenway from construction and trash. The people of West Hills deserve better. Why damage something so beautiful with unnecessary construction? West hills is a wonderful place to start our family and I look forward to someday playing with my children on that same beautiful greenway, a tiny oasis in the middle of a wonderful city! Shannon
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Shannon (37923), December 8, 2020 at 1:41 PM
I use this Greenway several times a week. Adding apartments there really ruins the concept of a Greenway. Hundreds of people walk this trail and we like that barrier of trees between us and the highway. It's a nice escape from the city in the city. Please don't knock down all those trees.Cynthia
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Cynthia (37909), December 8, 2020 at 1:50 PM
Please vote NO for the rezoning of this property. I am very concerned by storm water drainage because my yard has flooded many times during storms and it has been very close to entering my basement on several occasions. Has a storm water analysis been conducted? What has the developer documented that he will do about drainage from the many apartments and parking lots? I think the property is more suited for office buildings and that will not impact traffic as much and will add no additional students to the surrounding overcrowded schools. Also, apartments along the greenway generally bring more crime and more littering than greenspaces. Please vote NO on the rezoning!Michael
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Michael (37909), December 8, 2020 at 3:42 PM
As someone who uses Knoxville's greenways quite frequently, I am greatly opposed to reducing the green around the greenways. These stretches of land need to be preserved whenever possible as they are relied upon by so many to get a break from the rest of the city. It will negatively affect many people from all over Knoxville who use these greenways.Rachael
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Rachael (37909), December 8, 2020 at 3:47 PM
As a west hills resident, I do not want the space along the greenway to be developed. Greenways should be green.Debra December 8, 2020 at 3:56 PM
My concern is for traffic exiting onto Gallaher View Road. There have been multiple fatalities in that particular spot and with an additional 500 cars coming and going daily, its of concern. Drivers will also take a right and then a right onto Broome Road to use West Hills as a cut through. We are already experiencing an issue with speed, reckless driving, and littering. Would you please take the above under advisement when making a decision regarding the rezoning and/or approval. This may seem as though its not of major importance, but it is to the families living on Broome. How much more traffic can one neighborhood handle? My other concern is the same as the other emails you have been receiving, the integrity of neighborhoods, West Hills and St. Andrews. Noise, water run off, destruction of a greenway, decrease in home values etc.
Finally, I am respectfully requesting that you grant a 30- to 60-day postponement of hearing this request to rezone the property mentioned.
Frank
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Frank (37909), December 8, 2020 at 5:09 PM
We have been aware of this development since July 2020, but many community members are just now hearing about it. There are many questions and concerns, obviously. A 30-60 day postponement will give all parties time to get a clear understanding of this proposal, and hopefully work towards a mutually beneficial outcome for everyone involved. WHCA supports a postponement for this purpose.KATHY December 8, 2020 at 8:44 PM
I an concerned about the rezoning planned near the Church of Christ. I am a West Hills resident and only just heard about this. Why no input from local homeowners? This should be studied furthe before rezoning.Divina
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Divina (37909), December 9, 2020 at 12:03 PM
We have just recently learned about a proposal to change a planned office park near the St. Andrews subdivision to a 500-600 apartment complex.As a member of the West Hills Community, we share an interest in the outcome of this proposal, and residual affects to our neighborhood especially the St. Andrews subdivision, greenway. Additionally, potential impacts to traffic on East Walker Springs Road and Gallaher View Road could be detrimental. I have lived in the Cavet Station subdivision on Alexander Cavet Drive off Broome Road and Gallaher View Road for the past 16+ years. Many of you are aware of the tremendous increase in traffic volume on Broome Road. This has lead to numerous accidents some fatal. This development could potentially exacerbate an already dangerous situation on all surrounding roads.
I respectfully ask the members of the commission to please postpone the December 10th hearing for 30-90 days to become better informed, and gather all of information to conduct a community meeting with the developer.
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Candace (ld Dr), December 9, 2020 at 1:08 PM
Please don’t build this apartment complex.!!! This peaceful greenway will never be the same! We have lived in west hills for 16 years and the nice, quiet community that this greenway provides will change it in a negative way! We use the greenway about 5 times a week and it is part of what drew us to this area. We like the quiet neighborhood feel and apartments will kill that!Matthew
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Matthew (37909), December 9, 2020 at 1:52 PM
As a West Hills resident, and frequent user, I oppose development of any kind along the greenway, both for aesthetic and for environmental reasons. As some have already commented, drainage is an issue all along the greenway. Additionally, the removal of the trees will increase noise pollution from the roads as well as reducing the amount of habitat for wildlife. Gary
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Gary (37909), December 9, 2020 at 4:04 PM
I am highly opposed to this proposal (12-A-20-R2, 8300 E. Walker Springs LN). Based on first hand research, I am greatly concerned this proposal will have undoubtedly a substantial, negative affect on my property value and way of life here at my home and St. Andrews Subdivision/West Hills community. View Attachment
https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20201209160435.pdf
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Corey (37919), December 10, 2020 at 2:09 PM
I am in opposition of rezoning plan 12-A-20-RZ. The proposed rezoning will impact a heavily trafficked stretch of the Jean Teague Greenway. This greenway is a fantastic public amenity that raises the quality of life for residents of the West Hills area by offering a relatively secluded area for recreation. It is a popular greenway, and its value to citizens has been proven undoubtable during the COVID pandemic. While I recognize that the proposed plan will not eliminate the greenway, it will have negative impacts both during the construction of housing and forever after rezoning has occurred. This plan appears to benefit very few people, while negatively impacting the many hundreds or thousands of people who use this greenway. Removing the greenery separating the greenway from I-40 and replacing it with apartments or housing will result in even fewer opportunities for people to have a semblance of outdoor serenity in an area that is already highly urbanized. Alec December 11, 2020 at 9:06 AM
There are many other issues related to the zoning change of this 120HC06 zone: A high-pressure gas pipeline runs through this area, and for security reasons, no one can build any structures over this pipe. Who owns this gas pipeline and what does he think about it?
We’re in Panemic and more residents add more COVID-19 cases
I hope the PC and Knox City Council will reject this case because 99.9% of Green Route users and 100% of St. Andrews will support the rejection.
Thank you,
Please vote “NO”.
Caroline January 13, 2021 at 9:10 AM
It would be a terrible loss for our community to lose this lovely , peaceful, appreciated, and well used green space. I walk or run there many times a week with my dog.
Enough is enough.
Please do not destroy. Christina
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Christina (37909), January 13, 2021 at 9:36 AM
I am writing to briefly share my support for the rezoning proposal (8300 East Walker Springs Lane). As a renter in Knoxville, finding affordable housing is difficult due to high demand and low supply. I live in West Hills and frequent this section of the greenway. The location is great for new housing development. I understand that it is easy for people with housing to say 'not in my backyard' to people who need housing. My only hope is that these new developments remain affordable to young professionals and families.