Public Comments

October 5, 2022
at 1:51 PM

Caroline
37919

8-A-22-OA
Caroline (37919), October 5, 2022 at 1:51 PM

Please see PDF comments
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20221005135109.pdf

January 31, 2023
at 3:50 PM

Jimmy
37917

general
Jimmy (37917), January 31, 2023 at 3:50 PM

dfsdgf
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20230131155002.pdf

Erin
37917

6-B-23-SU
Erin (37917), May 1, 2023 at 12:23 PM

The Edgewood Park Neighborhood Association opposes a special use variance for a drive-thru at the proposed Cookout site at the corner of Edgewood and Broadway. Our full letter is attached, along with plans for traffic calming that would create bad congestion/potential for head-on collisions if the drive-thru line backs up onto Edgewood. We are also concerned with the noise and litter that would come hand-in-hand with the drive-thru.

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20230501122327.pdf

May 1, 2023
at 12:23 PM

Chris
37917

6-B-23-SU
Chris (37917), May 1, 2023 at 12:57 PM

No Cook out

May 1, 2023
at 12:57 PM

DAVE
37917

6-B-23-SU
DAVE (37917), May 1, 2023 at 1:15 PM

About the last thing North Broadway needs is another high traffic, fast food restaurant. There are already far too many on that section. In my experience it has been consistently unsafe to drive by them because people tend to stop quickly to pull in and then pull out without looking at traffic. It would be one more low wage business. The architecture of Cookout is cheap and ugly, and is out of context for the Edgewood Park neighborhood. Please reject their application. We can do better than this.

May 1, 2023
at 1:15 PM

Michael
37917

6-B-23-SU
Michael (37917), May 1, 2023 at 1:49 PM

This proposed drive-thru will create even more congestion on our already unsafe road, and it will likely result in more noise and litter as well. Broadway needs to be redesigned before more businesses are added to it. This road is extremely unsafe in its current state and adding more congestion will create a huge hazard

May 1, 2023
at 1:49 PM

Jamison
37917

6-B-23-SU
Jamison (37917), May 1, 2023 at 2:11 PM

Very excited to have cookout on Broadway. We need fewer vacant buildings and more new development!

May 1, 2023
at 2:11 PM

Nicole
37917

6-B-23-SU
Nicole (37917), May 1, 2023 at 3:53 PM

I’m really concerned about this build. This is a profit grab on the old bank space and while that’s ok, a fast food joint within an already tight (& residential) area and nothing in the plans to indicate widening roads or details on traffic management / city planning to mitigate said congestion will only make this area worse. Not to mention that this could lead into many head on collisions and possibly endanger any visitors (particularly kids) at the park behind the building. Put a stop to this drive through build at this particular location, we beg you!

May 1, 2023
at 3:53 PM

Michael
37917

6-B-23-SU
Michael (37917), May 1, 2023 at 4:59 PM

I am opposed to this use because the traffic on Edgewood will become heavy as drive through traffic will cause traffic stoppages. The property was previously used by a business with much less traffic and what traffic was caused by FT Bank was spread throughout the business day. The proposed business will concentrate vehicle traffic at meal times and cause real safety issues on Broadway if traffic is allowed to attempt to exit the parking lot turning south toward downtown. This intersection is at the entrance to a large number of single family homes and near a city park.

May 1, 2023
at 4:59 PM

Jamie
37917

6-B-23-SU
Jamie (37917), May 1, 2023 at 6:29 PM

When I bought my house in October, I was really unsure of the neighborhood. I grew up in the mountains of Anderson county and the idea of moving to an urban area really unsettled me. However, when I first walked the area during my first showing, I was astounded by the amount of people who were walking dogs, jogging, playing tennis or doing yoga at the park. I felt at home because of the ability that I saw to be in a neighborhood where I felt safe to explore it. I understand that it is always tempting to reuse a space and make money, but I believe the fears this association has is justified. More traffic on Edgewood will make it more dangerous for me, my dog, or even my children to walk to the library or playground. And though there is already a vagrant presence around, this may make our area more attractive to that and less safe. we are in an era of trying to change this part of town for the better. I don’t really believe that a fast food restaurant known for being a place to “sober up” is going to make gains on that goal. I am not a pro, but I would rather see a different kind of space being used for that building, especially one that doesn’t dump into my main thoroughfare.

May 1, 2023
at 6:29 PM

Haley
37917

6-B-23-SU
Haley (37917), May 1, 2023 at 6:38 PM

As a mother and homeowner just a few blocks away, I want to communicate my earnest hope that the commission will block the proposed Cookout on the corner of Edgewood and Broadway. The current infrastructure at the location could not support the increase in traffic congestion, leading residents like my husband and I to have to change our regular routes. Further, its proximity to the part will make the park less safe for my son to play, with an increased presence at night and increase in litter as well.

I have lived in Edgewood for many years happily and I ask you to please not allow Cookout to bring this unwanted change to my home.

May 1, 2023
at 6:38 PM

Sean
37917

6-B-23-SU
Sean (37917), May 1, 2023 at 6:49 PM

I'm totally fine with a Cookout going in on Edgewood and Broadway.

May 1, 2023
at 6:49 PM

February 2, 2023
at 11:34 PM

Shanin
37917

general
Shanin (37917), February 2, 2023 at 11:34 PM

I would like to address an issue that has been a severe difficulty for homeless residence in the city of Knoxville that needs to be addressed directly to help assist the homeless in obtaining permanent residency in the area. I believe in providing access to charging terminals would be very helpful in providing the charging terminals to keep their phones charged to keep in touch with housing possibilities available to them to stay in contact with placement possibilities. I made several calls and left several emails to the mayors of this city . My last attempt I personal arranged a conversation with one of the secretaries in the mayors office as well in person and still no action has been taken . I would like someone from your office to contact me at your soonest available time that we may arrange to discuss these issues directly . You may reach me via email projectchosenones@gmail.com or you may reach me by via cell phone #423-4461466 directly whenever available to discuss these issues please it would be greatly appreciated if you may assist me further for a resolution to this problem possibly . I appreciate the time and attention. Your cooperation would be great to address this issue thank you very much for your cooperation

Heather
37917

6-B-23-SU
Heather (37917), May 1, 2023 at 8:54 PM

As an Edgewood Park homeowner, I would just like to state my approval for development of this site. I feel that an investment of this kind would be a great draw to the area as opposed to the property just sitting vacant for as long as I can remember. And selfishly I don't want to have to drive so far for their food, which I love!

May 1, 2023
at 8:54 PM

Zachariah
37917

6-B-23-SU
Zachariah (37917), May 1, 2023 at 9:49 PM

I am opposed to this as I am worried about drive-thru traffic spilling over onto Edgewood Ave. We have all seen the issues that the Cookout off of Cumberland Ave have created and I don't think that this one would be that different. Please consider something more appropriate for a neighborhood such as this.

May 1, 2023
at 9:49 PM

Mary
37917

6-B-23-SU
Mary (37917), May 2, 2023 at 8:14 AM

I oppose the cookout being planned for Broadway at Edgewood. Broadway is already a nightmare among that stretch between Atlantic and woodland/Coker, so much so that the police have put up a 24/7 camera system. Cookout is notorious for being a late night destination and residents of belle Morris, Edgewood neighborhoods not benefit from its inclusion in our neighborhood.

May 2, 2023
at 8:14 AM

Scott
37917

6-B-23-SU
Scott (37917), May 2, 2023 at 8:32 AM

I would like to let you know that I oppose the construction of a new Cookout restaurant on Broadway. The neighborhood does not need another drive-thru creating more congestion and more air pollution. The neighborhood does not need another source for junk food. There are plenty of restaurants just like Cookout on that section of road.

Removing the old bank building and planting some oak trees would be a superior use of the property.

May 2, 2023
at 8:32 AM

Scott
37917

6-B-23-SU
Scott (37917), May 2, 2023 at 11:01 AM

I fully support this plan for a Cookout. It's clear from the site plan and traffic study there would have to be a ridiculous number of cars backed up in the drive thru in order to actually cause traffic issues. The likelihood of this actually occurring is so low that it's almost to the point of being negligible. Cookout drive thrus typically have such a quick turnaround time that the requisite number of cars for a traffic issue to occur shouldn't happen with even a barely competent restaurant manager.

We lack variety in drive thru dining options in the area, especially those that offer even remotely "healthier" options of foods that aren't fried. Cookout would be a very welcome addition to the area.

May 2, 2023
at 11:01 AM

Susan
11710

general
Susan (11710), April 6, 2023 at 4:41 PM

Although I do not live in Tennessee I am voicing my support for those who protested Tennessee’s gun laws.

April 6, 2023
at 4:41 PM

Kelly
37917

6-B-23-SU
Kelly (37917), May 2, 2023 at 4:05 PM

This establishment will pull all the 'rif raf' out late at night - this isn't a Chick-fil-A after all. I'm all for a more upscale dining establishment. But for a neighborhood that has car break-ins multiple times a week, people with mental health issues who frequently cross to get from Broadway to Whittle Springs Rd, children who freely run around in a park and cars that frequently exceed the speed limit - having this type of establishment will only exasperate the problems.

May 2, 2023
at 4:05 PM

Cathleen
37917

6-B-23-SU
Cathleen (37917), May 3, 2023 at 12:15 AM

I am for the new cookout on Broadway! I really don't think that it would cause more traffic for our neighborhood since it is already busy. It is short cut to whittle springs. I wouldn't have known about if someone hadn't complained on Facebook. I think this is just what Broadway needs and I live cookout. They will be busy at first but then it will slow down with time. I am very happy cookout is considering this venture and I will be a regular. Unfortunately everyone in area is not aware of plans so mostly negative people will be in here. I have full time job so cannot go to meeting to be heard. Please approve this!

May 3, 2023
at 12:15 AM

Diane
37917

6-B-23-SU
Diane (37917), May 3, 2023 at 1:14 AM

Yes, I would like to say that I support the proposed project 6-B-23-SU. I do not see a problem with a a fast food establishment at this location since there are already several in the vicinity.

May 3, 2023
at 1:14 AM

Larry
37917

6-B-23-SU
Larry (37917), May 5, 2023 at 4:24 PM

A Cookout would be AWESOME! The Cumberland Ave Cookout is used as a poor, one- sided example. The Emory Road and Kingston Pike Cookouts have no issues.

May 5, 2023
at 4:24 PM

John
37849

general
John (37849), Submitted during the meeting

5/11/23 PC meeting

This message is for Ms. Karyn Adams concerning Belltown.

Thank you very much for specifically verifying with Josh Sanderson that the mature trees along the western border with Washington Heights will remain. I had submitted a comment with an aerial photograph I made recently while flying over the property that showed the trees and how important they are for maintaining a visual buffer between the two properties. This was the first verification as I did not know that they would not be removing any vegetation to the immediate west of the blue line on their map.

John Lomax

Washington Heights resident

Submitted during the meeting

Carly
37918

6-B-23-SU
Carly (37918), May 14, 2023 at 9:36 AM

I used to live in Edgewood Park neighborhood a few years ago and moved in 2017. However I’m very familiar with this area. The drive through is going to cause additional traffic congestion and noise issues for the neighbors. I request that you please deny any sort of exceptions requested by Cookout. Perhaps a sit-down restaurant or other business would be nice here. There are really no sit-down options in the area and that could minimize traffic since it’s not a high-volume model. Please consider community requests before granting permission to Cookout to break ground. Thank you!

May 14, 2023
at 9:36 AM

Erin
37917

6-B-23-SU
Erin (37917), May 16, 2023 at 8:40 AM

I would like to add that zoning code 16.2.f.2.e reads: "the use is not of a nature or so located as to draw substantial additional traffic through residential streets"

This will draw significant traffic to our already too-busy residential street. We do not want this added to our neighborhood, please do not approve a special use variance. Seeing the Taco Bell on Kingston pike approved is disheartening, but I want to stress this approval would be even worse since it would approve access on a residential street.

May 16, 2023
at 8:40 AM

Jenny
37917

6-B-23-SU
Jenny (37917), May 16, 2023 at 11:11 AM

So excited for more new business in the area. Traffic is heavy during rush hour but no more than was with the bank.

May 16, 2023
at 11:11 AM

5-B-23-DP

Ralph
37923

5-B-23-DP
Ralph (37923), May 17, 2023 at 10:14 AM

see attached
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20230517101409.pdf

May 17, 2023
at 10:14 AM

6-F-23-RZ

Nathaniel
37916

6-F-23-RZ
Nathaniel (37916), May 17, 2023 at 12:05 PM

I believe this development would be a very important step in improving the problems of housing inaccessibility for students, while also getting rid of an eyesore of a parking lot that is quite unproductive otherwise. It would be nice to see how this development could focus on pedestrians and other modes of transit, possibly including bike parking near the alleyway that runs between Highland Ave and Forest Ave, and trying to minimize the amount of parking infrastructure to cut down on traffic and attract other modes of transit for students. There is a huge demand for housing with well planned design and a focus on walkability and people instead of parking. Denser living is better in a time where Knoxville traffic continues to get worse and if we design living spaces close to urban centers with that in mind, I think there is some huge potential in Fort Sanders for the improvement of student life. Needs to be affordable housing though.

May 17, 2023
at 12:05 PM

Blake
37917

6-C-23-RZ
Blake (37917), May 21, 2023 at 1:25 PM

Building an apartment complex at this location would have a negative effect on wildlife habitat and create more road traffic. Please don’t build at this location!

May 21, 2023
at 1:25 PM

Macey
37917

6-C-23-RZ
Macey (37917), May 21, 2023 at 1:52 PM

Please deny the request to re-zone this lot. This is a quiet family neighborhood and adding an apartment complex would only create unwanted traffic and have a bad impact on wildlife in the area.

May 21, 2023
at 1:52 PM

6-SA-23-C

STACIE
37849

6-SA-23-C
STACIE (37849), May 21, 2023 at 2:53 PM

My neighbors and I are very concerned about this. We live in that mobile home areaat 7642 Old Clinton Pike. Many of the people there are older and sick. Some have lived there over 30 years. My family has been there for almost 13. There are children there. We still owe on our home and can't afford to move it. These are people's homes!!! I understand building and change but what about us? There is so much already on Old Clinton Pike... apartments, duplexes etc and the traffic is already horrendous off Emory and Old Clinton Pike is already a problem. It would back up to Candle ridge apartments and Broadacres. I know several in those apartments who don't want that in their face. And 47? Right on top of each other??? Powell is already getting to be too busy. Now if you want to pay our home off...go for it. We have nowhere to go. That park is family oriented and we all know and look out for each other. We had no warning about this until recently where we found it BY ACCIDENT! Not to mention all the children and there are a lot who will be affected by situation.

May 21, 2023
at 2:53 PM

Lisa
37927

6-C-23-RZ
Lisa (37927), May 21, 2023 at 2:58 PM

It’s a nice quiet area and we want to keep it that way!

May 21, 2023
at 2:58 PM

6-SA-23-C

Zoe
37918

6-SA-23-C
Zoe (37918), May 23, 2023 at 6:49 AM

Hello, I am a 19 year old girl who was aged out of the foster system. Me and my partner have had the luck of looking for a new home. Sadly, we have considered not even living in Tennessee. 3 years ago our loan would have approved the cost of most single family homes, however our government has allowed these cheap cookie cutter homes to be built and destroyed the land our unique ones once were. I am asking you to please stop them from causing more damage to Knoxville. They build these cookie cutter homes on our beautiful land and then sell them for $400k and no one who lives here can afford them, only these people from out of state. We have genuinely considered leaving because you are pushing us out. If more trees get bulldozed and more land gets dug up and more homes get built you can say goodbye to your unique Tennessee people and hello to all of these people from up north who are trying to escape the same damage you are causing. I am mad i am frustrated, and at 19 I am having to choose to leave my beautiful home that I grew up in. I love Knoxville but this is not Knoxville

May 23, 2023
at 6:49 AM

6-A-23-DP

STACIE
37849

6-A-23-DP
STACIE (37849), May 26, 2023 at 7:15 PM

We live in this area. We have a mobile home on this property. There are 7 other families that this affects also. If this goes through, we and our neighbors have no place to go. We can't afford to move our mobile homes or move anywhere else. We even still OWE on ours. This is not a good move. It will cause more traffic issues, more crowds and not in a good way. Yesterday when looking for the line a pipe burst and we were without water for almost 5 hours...and that's just for the mobile homes. Imagine if you add more residences. I have friends who live in the apartments behind us and she said they have enough problems with runoff as it is. The property is on a slope. Also we have issues with Old Clinton Pike. There are almost wrecks everyday. Everyone around here is firmly opposed. Some have lived here 30 years, some over 20, we have been here almost 13 years. People may think it's "just a little acreage" or "it's going to improve" ask anyone in Powell and they will tell you they are over it.

May 26, 2023
at 7:15 PM

6-H-23-RZ

Linda
37849

6-H-23-RZ
Linda (37849), May 30, 2023 at 1:52 PM

I feel another subdivision is the last thing we need in this area. With the new subdivision down the street from this site and the ones on Pedigo road , we are overloaded with traffic as it is. Also can our schools handle more children. I hate to see all of our land being turned into subdivision that with 5 to years look like a project area b cause of poor worksmanship that these big companies are building like Smithbilt.

May 30, 2023
at 1:52 PM

Elizabeth
37831

6-C-23-RZ
Elizabeth (37831), May 31, 2023 at 11:40 AM

I am the owner of property located at [REDACTED] Valley View Drive., which is a short distance from the property considered for rezoning. My daughter has lived at this property for 4 years plus. I am quite familiar with the neighborhood. It is a quiet, mostly single-family residential area. The description given for the proposed development is RN-4 which does not explain much about the structure being considered, however any sort of development housing several people would be opposed by myself. In addition, Valley View Drive is a narrow road with no sidewalks. I consider that to be a safety issue and feel adding additional traffic flow is not a good idea.

May 31, 2023
at 11:40 AM

December 28, 2022
at 2:39 PM

Michelle
n/a

general
Michelle (n/a), December 28, 2022 at 2:39 PM

Please see the attached comments about "Smart City" plans for Knoxville.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20221228143906.pdf

Soraya
37923

general
Soraya (37923), March 1, 2023 at 9:42 AM

I am looking for information on how to get Knox County to add an ordinance regarding chickens in neighborhoods which is as strict as that of the city. Number allowed, no roosters, and needing a permit. I have been dealing with hens and roosters on the property next to mine for 4 years. There were 35 hens and 5 roosters next door to me on a less than 1 acre lot. The owner of the chickens finally got rid of them and settled out of court with us, but we had to spend an inordinate amount of money due to the legal system. I want to make sure that no one else has to deal with the smell, noise or devaluation of their property due to a neighbors poor choices. Any assistance into how this type of ordinance can be brought up and added to Knox County codes would be appreciated.

March 1, 2023
at 9:42 AM

Cindy
37917

6-B-23-SU
Cindy (37917), May 31, 2023 at 4:55 PM

I live in Edgewood Park Neighborhood and currently serve as president of the Edgewood Park Neighborhood Association. I oppose a special use variance for this drive-thru. Based on the drive-thrus of other area Cook Out restaurants, there is a high likelihood that traffic will spill onto Edgewood Ave. Edgewood Avenue can't support this. This will make an already dangerous road more dangerous.

The Edgewood Park Neighborhood Association has worked for several years (in conjunction with the residents living on Edgewood Ave) to get a traffic calming plan in place for Edgewood Avenue, between Whittle Springs and Broadway. Construction on those traffic calming measures is set to begin this summer. Allowing overflow drive-thru traffic to backup on Edgewood Ave would contradict all the efforts made by Edgewood Park residents to make that road safer. Please reject this application.

May 31, 2023
at 4:55 PM

6-H-23-RZ

L
37754

6-H-23-RZ
L (37754), May 31, 2023 at 6:05 PM

Generally, I am not against this rezoning. However, I ask that the planning commission carefully investigate the history of any builder in our lovely area before approving changes that could permanently mar a wonderful landscape. 5 houses per acre is concerning. Particularly, I would be concerned about the proximity to water and the tendency of mass-built houses to cause flooding. These builds on top of waterways, if done irresponsibly, could harm our wildlife and local ecosystems. If we trust that the next step in the process will be done well and with careful planning and concern for our beautiful, rural land and the farmers and gardeners on it, then this step of zoning change is fine. If we instead find evidence that these houses will be rush-built and not involve a planner who knows how they will impact our land and waters, then I suggest we stop it in its tracks at this point.

May 31, 2023
at 6:05 PM

Ruth
37917

6-C-23-RZ
Ruth (37917), May 31, 2023 at 9:41 PM

I live across from this property and strongly oppose this zoning change request. This property is not wide enough to stuff the 6-24 dwelling units per an acre that this zoning request will permit. Yes, it is abt 1.5 acres but it is narrow when you consider that it only has 100ft road frontage and this developer wants to put 6-24 apts on it. This will have the buildings almost on top of the neighbors. Just behind this property lies the 640 interstate, the trees and hills help to buffer the noise and pollution that come with a very busy road way. There is wildlife that call that home. I've lived here for 5 years and have seen more varied wildlife (deer, birds,...) than I've seen anywhere else. Apartments don't bring the bring value to a family neighborhood. I don't want me and my neighbors home values go down just because someone see's $$$. Valley View Dr is a busy road as it is and people speed down it all the time, even the KAT buses. Putting in more apartments will not help this. Please say "no" to this request. This is not the place for apartments. Nobody here wants this. Only a single home needs to be built here. Homeowners have a vested interest in there property and renters (alot of times) don't. Please look out for our best interest and deny this request. Thank you

May 31, 2023
at 9:41 PM

6-H-23-RZ

Barbara
37754

6-H-23-RZ
Barbara (37754), May 31, 2023 at 9:43 PM

I don’t feel that another subdivision is good idea for our area. The side edges of our roads/asphalt are broken off causing damage to our vehicles. If you’re the unlucky person meeting a big truck we are the ones having to squeeze over hitting these bad spots. We already have road damage from the garage trucks going to and from the landfill plus multiple dump trucks daily, all day long. If the interstate is back up or rerouted because of bad accidents the traffic picks up so much more. These houses are being thrown up just for the sake of putting money in the builders pockets. I am totally against another subdivision in this area.

May 31, 2023
at 9:43 PM

Stephanie
37917

6-C-23-RZ
Stephanie (37917), June 1, 2023 at 1:17 PM

I currently live in the home owned by the Soldano’s. Valley view drive lays at the base of the ridge line. This whole side of the street already floods regularly. I have been in contact with the county and the city for months now, regarding the stormwater basins and the open channel one property down. This whole side of whittle springs was built on top of springs and the groundwater is at full saturation. Additionally, there are sink holes everywhere increasing in number. My home is currently in need of foundation work, due to water and flood damage. This building will make all these issues worse. I’m concerned that disruption of the uphill property or any surrounding land will cause more issues for every property in the immediate area. Additionally, we purchased this property for the privacy and the land. I cannot stress enough how the integrity of the land is at stake. I don’t want any construction or disruption of of the ground. I vote against this proposal fully. In my opinion, any action puts all surrounding properties at risk is for increased flooding and compounding issues. We vote NO.

June 1, 2023
at 1:17 PM

Darla
37932

6-SB-23-C
Darla (37932), June 2, 2023 at 10:29 AM

Please do not allow any more housing developments in Hardin Valley until the roads are widened & school over crowding has been resolved. The beauty of Hardin Valley is being destroyed. The roads are congested and not wide enough to accommodate additional families. The schools are over crowded. These issues should be corrected before more subdivisions are allowed.

June 2, 2023
at 10:29 AM

6-SC-23-C

Amanda
37932

6-SC-23-C
Amanda (37932), June 2, 2023 at 1:00 PM

Before consideration of the new homes the roads need to be taken care of first. It is already a mess. Traffic flow is horrendous. It’s a 2 lane road with a ton of subdivisions. Schools are overcrowded and our children are not receiving the education they deserve because there’s 1 teacher to 30+ kids.

June 2, 2023
at 1:00 PM

Kristen

6-SB-23-C
Kristen June 2, 2023 at 1:54 PM

This is very upsetting to see more development taking place on Hardin Valley Road. The infrastructure does not support this on-going development. One lane roads with a turn lane are not sufficient for the current traffic flow, especially when school is in session. Just adding ‘access’ lanes for these subdivisions does not help with the flow of traffic. Further west, there are not even turn lanes, but more and more subdivisions are being built. Please reconsider additional development until other important areas are addressed: schools, infrastructure, sidewalks, SAFETY, etc. The road west of Pellissippi should have been the same as the east side of Pellissippi (two lanes each way).In addition, drivers do not understand that a yellow blinking light does not give them the right to turn left from Hardin Valley onto Pellissippi (heading south towards I-40) when cars are turning right. I cannot tell you the number of times that vehicles turning right to get on Pellissippi are cut off from vehicles turning left, just because through traffic is not coming these lanes think they have the right to complete their left turn(s). There has already been multiple accidents in this intersection, either the yellow blinking light needs to be eliminated or large signs need to be posted to remind these drivers they must yield to turning vehicles, too.

June 2, 2023
at 1:54 PM

6-SC-23-C

Kristen

6-SC-23-C
Kristen June 2, 2023 at 1:56 PM

June 2, 2023
at 1:56 PM

Jessica
37917

6-C-23-RZ
Jessica (37917), June 2, 2023 at 3:24 PM

I live 2 house's away from this lot and I am very against this rezone. My property has the same footprint at the lot in question and fits just a single dwelling in its width. While the property is 1.5 acres and there is depth to it, there is not enough space for 6-24 units. In addition, Valley View is a busy road already and that lot is just over a blind hill increased traffic going in and out of that lot would be dangerous. I am also concerned about the environmental impact this would have as I assume they would clear the old growth trees to make space. These trees are hundreds of years old and have natural habitats of many animals. I believe apartments/duplexes would lower property values and the increased noise from an additional 6-24 units/families (not to mention the construction!) would negatively impact the surrounding households. This a single family lot, please keep it that way!

June 2, 2023
at 3:24 PM

Susan
37932

6-SB-23-C
Susan (37932), June 2, 2023 at 5:38 PM

Hardin Valley Rd, both in the mornings and late afternoons, are a nightmare to drive on. I have to reroute wherever I am going to avoid that rd because the traffic is out of hand. The road needs to be widened or lanes need to be added before it is even considered to add more homes. There are people who are considering relocating out of this specific area because the traffic is so bad that it significantly impacts driving times to work, appointments and errands. The commission needs to be appraised of the area themselves to see how bad the traffic is on the road now before any new homes are added.

June 2, 2023
at 5:38 PM

Renee
37932

6-SB-23-C
Renee (37932), June 2, 2023 at 9:49 PM

We urge the committee not to approve any more subdivisions off Hardin Valley rd. We do not have the infrastructure to support 117 more townhomes. Traffic and safety on Hardin Valley rd is already a mess and dangerous and our schools are at capacity.

June 2, 2023
at 9:49 PM

Kristi
37932

6-SB-23-C
Kristi (37932), June 2, 2023 at 10:27 PM

Hardin Valley cannot support anymore subdivisions! The addition of the new elementary school is not going to relieve the overcrowding of HVES. The middle school and high school are overcrowded, too, yet your proposing more homes with more students. We need a park or a greenway. Not an increased burden on our community.

June 2, 2023
at 10:27 PM

Sheila Jean
n/a

general
Sheila Jean (n/a), March 3, 2023 at 1:48 PM

see attachment
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20230303134819.pdf

March 3, 2023
at 1:48 PM

6-B-23-DP

David
37932

6-B-23-DP
David (37932), June 3, 2023 at 6:52 PM

Dear Knox Planning Committee, like many others who live nearby, the addition of these housing units to an already intolerable hardin valley road transit is just plain crazy without looking at the road itself. The information provided by the staff report clearly shows the back up on both sides of hardin valley road during the study and also indicated that the intersection separation to both these communities are below the Knox County minimum of 400 feet. Building these developments will ultimately cause many of us to most likely move in the next couple of years as the uncontrollable growth in Hardin Valley without real solutions drastically reduces the appeal and reason many of us live here.

June 3, 2023
at 6:52 PM

Claudia
37932

6-SB-23-C
Claudia (37932), June 4, 2023 at 11:25 AM

I was excited when I thought that the dairy Cruze Farm was coming to Hardin Valley. Then after some exploration I realized it was Cruz Farms a 62-lot residential development off of Hardin Valley Road. I have lived in Hardin Valley for 18 years and basically watched it be destroyed. I visit these Knox County Commission active cases for Hardin Valley developments and look at the public comments and have yet to see Hardin Valley residents say they support these developments. But instead, they talk about the things citizens of Hardin Valley see every day. The traffic is horrendous . In the approximate mile between the Hardin Valley Schools and the Pellissippi Community College I feel I am jeopardizing my life driving to and from work. All the current developments, and these proposed ones, empty on to Hardin Valley Road and the middle turning lane treacherous. My son attended the Hardin Valley schools and one needs to look no further than all the issues at HVA this last year to point to overcrowding as a potential cause. The school age children that live in Cruz Farms, and the proposed Maya Hills next door, will be in the parental responsibility zone, i.e. no school bus service. That means parents and teenagers driving to and from these developments to the schools. Walking and biking to school are wonderful alternatives but as the transportation impact analysis notes the walk score is 17, the bike score is 4, and the public transport is 0 out of 100.

June 4, 2023
at 11:25 AM

6-C-23-DP

Claudia
37932

6-C-23-DP
Claudia (37932), June 4, 2023 at 11:29 AM

I am aware that housing, especially affordable housing is an issue, and I do not want to be a "not in my backyard" person but rather a "yes in my backyard" but that takes some intentional, careful, planning acknowledging the comments of the people that live in the community and experience the roads and the schools. There seems to be no long-term vision for sustainable community with parks, greenways, sidewalks, etc.

June 4, 2023
at 11:29 AM

Seth
37932

6-SB-23-C
Seth (37932), June 4, 2023 at 5:45 PM

Hardin Valley schools are heavily overcrowded. The new Mill Creek Elementary school is east of Pellissippi’s parkway. The new schools zoning only extends about 1,000 feet west of the parkway. MPC currently has approved house plats for 870+ houses and 4 new subdivisions all well within the Hardin Valley elementary school zone. The temporary reduction in overcrowding at HVES will last less than 18 months with the current houses and subdivisions being built. The number of houses approved to be built in the new mill creek elementary school zone is currently at 54 new homes. the MPC’s single minded drive for tax revenue is killing the schools in Hardin valley. Also, the traffic is pretty terrible. For the sake of continued appeal and sustainability of the Hardin Valley area please restrict this subdivision to one house per an acre. Ball homes is a house building machine they will eat Hardin Valley alive if you continue to let them.

June 4, 2023
at 5:45 PM

Dustin
37917

8-A-22-OA
Dustin (37917), June 4, 2023 at 10:16 PM

This is an insanely stupid and short-sighted idea and it angers me that the *Planning* Department isn't able to see that this doesn't help our city plan a better future. No one wants to walk if buildings are pulled far back from the sidewalk and there is parking in the front. This change continues to lock us into car dependence at a time when we should be actively doing everything we can to lower our emissions. The best way we can do that from a planning perspective is to make this town more lovely and safe to walk, bike, and take transit, This strips any future potential for that away. Especially as a Knoxville Transit Authority Commissioner, this ticks me off. We are trying to make our bus system more frequent and enjoyable for all users but by pulling back the street edge as the standard (instead of just making these developers apply for a VARIANCE which is what they should have to do), you all are allowing the edges of our town to lose the future to be walkable, bikeable, and transit friendly.

This is insanely ill-thought and short-sighted and shameful. Everyone deserves walkability. You can't get to that if you just back down and give into developers the first time they complain. We have to build the city we want. For the love of god, deny this [REDACTED] amendment.

June 4, 2023
at 10:16 PM

6-C-23-DP

Karen
37932

6-C-23-DP
Karen (37932), June 5, 2023 at 4:17 PM

See attached statement
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20230605161722.pdf

June 5, 2023
at 4:17 PM

Aaron
37917

6-C-23-RZ
Aaron (37917), June 5, 2023 at 4:58 PM

I live at the intersection of Valley View and Vera drive, and have for a few years now. Neither myself nor my neighbors (some of which have already expressed concerns here) are in favor of this rezoning proposal. Between environmental impacts, additional safety hazards, noise/pollution from construction, negative property value impacts, and stormwater drainage concerns, all already voiced here, it’s very clear that this rezoning request should be denied. Personally speaking, it is already difficult enough to walk the dog around the neighborhood due to all the speeding on Valley View, and adding these dwellings would only make it more difficult and dangerous to walk, cycle or drive around Valley View, both during and after construction. The lot literally comes out to the crest of a blind hill on a road that people commonly drive 10mph over the speed limit on. This project is not wanted here.

June 5, 2023
at 4:58 PM

Tonya
37932

6-SB-23-C
Tonya (37932), June 6, 2023 at 7:49 AM

The infrastructure that is currently in place cannot sustain more homes. There are often times that when leaving our home we must take Campbell Station to the interstate or Yarnell road to get out of the area because of traffic. Those roads cannot handle the extra traffic either. This particular piece of property has a lot of wildlife that lives on it (deer, turkey, etc.) The possibility of a park or natural reserve in this area would be amazing. We are destroying the natural habits for our wildlife.

June 6, 2023
at 7:49 AM

6-C-23-DP

Walter
37932

6-C-23-DP
Walter (37932), June 6, 2023 at 8:03 AM

The traffic on Hardin Valley has become so bad that I must add time to my commute and often times must make up hours at work because of unexpected delays. The roadways will not handle more traffic. There are often times that traffic is backed up from Pellissippi to Brighton Farms already. With the proposed development adding 117 homes which would add approximately 235 more vehicles traveling that road will make it more difficult for people to get to work or school. The schools are already overcrowded, even with the addition of an elementary school, this does not alleviate the overcrowding of the middle or high schools. This development would fall within the parent responsibility zone; therefore, it would be possible that you have at least 100 additional cars trying to get to the elementary and middle schools for drop off. There is a need for usable green space in the Hardin Valley area. I would love to see the county purchase this for something for the community.

June 6, 2023
at 8:03 AM

Hancen
37919

8-A-22-OA
Hancen (37919), June 6, 2023 at 9:53 AM

See the attached letter from the Public Policy Committee of the Knoxville Area Association of Realtors®.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20230606095314.pdf

June 6, 2023
at 9:53 AM

Charity
37923

8-A-22-OA
Charity (37923), June 6, 2023 at 2:28 PM

I live in West Knoxville and I am unable to drive. I moved to this area because it was close to a KAT bus stop. That bus line was discontinued 6 months after I moved in. Now, to catch the bus, I need to walk down Kingston Pike. Coming from Nashville, it is strange to me that there are bus stops without safe walking paths. I also live within walking distance of a grocery store, my dentist, several restaurants and businesses, and the Ten Mile Creek Greenway. However, I cannot get to most of them safely. I risk my life every time I want to catch the bus at WalMart because there is no safe way to cross Kingston Pike at Walker Springs. I have to walk through my neighbor's yard and through business parking lots because there is no sidewalk. In some areas, you literally cannot walk anywhere unless you want to walk on Kingston Pike because where sidewalks could be, are large, sharp rocks. It is almost as if this area was purposefully designed so that no one can walk. As a disabled person, it makes me feel very unwelcome here. It sounds that the exemption of these rules for Kingston Pike west of Bearden Road is because of previous poor infrastructure design. How will anything improve if we allow past failures to prevent positive change? See attached PDF for images.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20230606142849.pdf

June 6, 2023
at 2:28 PM

Chris
37919

8-A-22-OA
Chris (37919), June 6, 2023 at 4:18 PM

I urge you not to change the build-to ordinance in such a drastic fashion. Certainly, specific parcels are difficult to develop under the ordinance (that's the purpose of variances). But on the whole, perpetuating a hostile environment for pedestrians will never be good for Knoxville. The city is growing and we need urban corridors to become more...urban. That means getting rid of outdated and low-value land uses that inhibit growth. We have some of the the ugliest and least safe arterials in the south. A big part of that is car-only land uses that exclude all other users. These also tend to have very low return on development (in terms of value per acre). As long as we have transit, we have to support walkability on all of our corridors. I urge the planning commissioners to a) consider the bus system redesign that prioritizes these corridors (esp chapman and kingston pike) and b) consider other constituents besides strip mall developers and people that are trapped in their cars. In 30 years (when these buildings will still be in place), these corridors should look different if we expect to handle the growth most people want. We have to have corridors where people can safely walk to accomplish that growth. Land use is the biggest part of the equation, that sticks around the longest. The rest can come later.

June 6, 2023
at 4:18 PM

January 11, 2023
at 7:48 AM

Vicki
k Dr

general
Vicki (k Dr ), January 11, 2023 at 7:48 AM

I am extremely concerned about the lack of infrastructure for toads, traffic planning and access to Turkey Creek. It is frustrating fighting the traffic from Parkside and Lovell Road. It is so frustrating that I avoid traveling to that area and the great stores in Turkey Creek. Mr. Welch was quoted saying we can't turn down development. We can say no unless Knox County can provide the proper infrastructure before development or perhaps Knox County and the developers partner to put the infrastructure in place before the development. Yes economic development is critical to the health of any city. However, if consumers cannot reach the business, there will be lost revenue for those businesses that may need to shut down. Turkey Creek is off my list for shopping and restaurants. Thank you.