I was just made aware of the potential development of an EZ Stop Market on Concord Road at Second Drive. As a property owner in the Concord historic district, I feel I must express my concerns over this project. It is completely inappropriate for this location. Knox County has very few historic areas and Concord is important to our culture and our history. Placing this establishment next to the historic Masonic Lodge, and cemetery will disrupt the integrity of this historic district.
It appears the planned project is too large for a residential area. It would be better placed on a larger road in a commercial zone. Although there are now several commercial facilities on Concord Road, they are not gas stations, supermarkets, or retail stores.
The proposed market would bring unnecessary traffic into a neighborhood. It will also increase light and noise pollution for a residential area that is known for its walkable streets, churches and community.
The historic overlay in Concord was created to protect an important part of Knox County history. Adding this market would harm the integrity of this community.
I have been a Concord resident for 30 years and I have seen the growth of the area and have dealt with all the traffic and congestion as the infrastructure has struggled to meet the growth. In my opinion, there is no historic charm on Concord Road. Unless you refer to the old, dilapidated building at the corner of Concord and Lake Ridge Dr. that has a food truck operating next to it. To me, it is an eyesore. In all my years living here, I have wished that site would be a functioning gas station/convenience store. I support EZ Stop opening a gas station with a convenience store and restaurant at the proposed site, which is needed in this area. In addition, I'm glad to see a local business operating here instead of some chain from out of state. My children's activities take me all over the local area and I often stop at EZ Stop locations. Recently, their activities took me to a new EZ Stop at 2125 Morganton Road in Maryville. This is the nicest facility that I have ever had the pleasure to visit, and it was very family friendly. I believe the same layout would be beneficial to the residents of Concord and in no way detract from our community.
6-B-24-UR Yvette (37922), June 12, 2024 at 12:17 PM
As a resident of the Choto Area for the last 15 years, I have witnessed enormous growth which has resulted in a tremendous increase in traffic related accidents. While the roundabouts at Choto and Northshore have helped to some degree, the continual increase in residential and business approvals and builds has not. Northshore has not been widened. One flip off the non-existant shoulder and you're stuck for hours - happens a few times a year. People move to the suburbs for peace and quiet. A gas station/restaurant combo does NOT increase the serenity of the area. Quite the contrary. The proposal to build yet another gas station right in between two others is ridiculous and unnecessary. I VOTE NO!
I am writing in support of this land usage and the potential addition of an EZ stop to our neighborhood (I live in Jefferson Park just down the road). I have seen the design for this store and with it's all brick facade, much improved food offerings, and strong local ownership (it is a family run business based in Maryville) would be a great addition. If this is not approved I worry that some other much larger corporate organization will come in with its cookie cutter design and make the area look like every other urban expansion. I would prefer to see a local business succeed who cares about the local area and its people versus another Weigel's or Taco Bell (which would likely pursue the land). I know I am only one person but when discussing this with my neighbors we are all in agreement.
I am writing to express my support for the proposed development of a gas station and farm-to-kitchen restaurant in our neighborhood. While I understand that some community members have reservations, I believe this project will bring significant benefits to our area.
A local gas station will reduce travel time and emissions, contributing to a more sustainable community. The farm-to-kitchen restaurant is an exciting prospect, as it aligns perfectly with our values of supporting our local community. This restaurant will not only offer fresh options but also provide a market for local farmers, fostering a stronger local economy and a sense of community.
It is also important to note that modern gas stations and restaurants can be designed with aesthetics and community integration in mind. With thoughtful planning and collaboration, this development can enhance the charm of our area rather than detract from it. For instance, the design can incorporate elements that reflect the local character of the neighborhood, creating a seamless blend of old and new.
I am confident that this development will be a positive addition to our community, providing essential services, supporting local agriculture, and contributing to our economic vitality.
Leave our neighborhoods as neighborhoods. Traffic is terrible in this area as is and more traffic will negativity impact the surrounding parks with traffic congestion and air quality in a place designated for outside activity. Not to mention, the historical Concord area which has been part of my life for 50 years. We have enough gas stations and convenient stores in the area already. Please DO NOT approve this development. Thank you. Remember you are representatives of the people and if you don't stand for us on this, election time we will Remember who is actually doing what they are supposed to do.
6-B-24-UR Jennifer (37922), July 3, 2024 at 3:51 PM
I strongly oppose the change in land use which would allow a fueling station, convenience store, and restaurant to be constructed on the acreage depicted in this proposal at 1025 Concord Road. I ask that the planning commission reject this proposal in its entirety. It is totally incompatible with the overall lifestyle and character of this small section of Knox County. Please see my specific comments in the attachment. View Attachment
7-D-24-SU B Lamar (37922), July 7, 2024 at 6:44 PM
As a homeowner in the Northshore Town Center (NTC), I am OPPOSED to this request to allow any structure within the NTC to exceed 35' in height. Please see the attached document (NTC.pdf) for details supporting my opposition.
I am a resident of NTC. I highly oppose the approval of this amendment. Residents have invested in a view and were told no lofts were going to be higher than the original lofts. This is the last phase of Mike Stevens builds. We need to protect their investment and views of the scenic highway. He has lofts adjacent that he was suppose to duplicate that in the same level as these.
7-D-24-SU Kleveland (37922), July 8, 2024 at 7:11 PM
I oppose 7-D-24-17 request to amend the previously approved planned district to increase the maximum height of a townhouse from 35 feet to approximately 41 feet In Northshore Town Center. When I built my custom home completed in November 2022, I was told by the builder that future plans for the undeveloped property would not obstruct my view of the lake and mountains. With current building to date, my view from the first three floors of my home are obstructed. With the proposed exception to code, it would obstruct my last remainder of the view from the top floor. This would greatly diminish the value of my property. In addition I believe this exception to building height would violate the Scenic Highway and Parkway Legislation (TCA 54-17). This could be a very unfortunate precedent and put the beauty of our parkways all over East Tennessee at risk. Please vote no.
My husband Richard and I reside in Northshore Town Center. We love our neighborhood so much that we have considered a newer property in the hood as an upgrade. Our primary motivation for the upgrade would be for the view of the lake and mountains from one of the new rooftops on the newer lofts. In speaking with the Stevens, I got mixed reviews from them on whether or not this would impact views of existing neighbors. Views add value to properties. If other properties are being devalued in this, certainly seems that would not be a desire of anyone involved.
6-B-24-UR William (37922), July 10, 2024 at 9:22 AM
The EZ Stop proposed development on Concord Rd is a bad idea. This development does not fit in with its proximity to Historic Old Concord. Please do not approve this development. I am sure there are better ways to develop this property.
6-B-24-UR Jill (37922), Submitted during the meeting
While all development is not bad, this type of development in this area is a bad fit for the historical community of Concord and disrespectful to the citizens visiting the graves of loved ones in the directly adjacent historical cemetery. My family and other families in the community have multiple generations of loved ones buried in the Concord Masonic Cemetery and own burial plots where we will stand to mourn the loss of loved ones in the future. I can't imagine going through this pain while just next door consumers are filling their fuel tanks and grabbing snacks for the road. Let's keep a deep respect for our county and its people as our main priority and vote NO to this development.