Knox County, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – The Knoxville-Knox County Planning Commission has approved a rezoning request for a 13-acre property along Strawberry Plains Pike, clearing the way for a proposed residential development that has drawn opposition from some nearby residents.
The property, located in the Strawberry Plains area near Carter Elementary School, was previously zoned Rural Conservation. Under that zoning classification, at least 50 percent of the land was required to remain undeveloped.
Developer Joe Davis sought a zoning change that would allow a higher-density residential development on the site. Plans could permit up to five homes per acre if the project moves forward.
Following discussion, the Planning Commission voted to rezone the property from Rural Conservation to Planned Residential. However, commissioners retained the requirement that half of the property’s acreage remain undeveloped.
The proposal faced criticism from neighboring property owners who argued the increased housing density would alter the character of the surrounding area.
Resident Cathy Atkins, who lives adjacent to the property, spoke against the rezoning during the public discussion.
“He’s entitled to everything we are, but he’s entitled to no more. And to come and say this rezoning is for us is wrong. It’s wrong against the neighborhood,” Atkins said.
Atkins and other opponents contend that if development proceeds, the density should be limited to approximately one home per acre rather than the higher density potentially allowed under the new zoning classification.
Supporters of the rezoning argue that residential growth is occurring throughout Knox County and that the Planned Residential designation provides flexibility while preserving significant open space through the 50-percent conservation requirement.
With the rezoning now approved, future development plans will continue through the review process before construction can begin.
Residents who oppose the project say they intend to closely follow future proposals and construction activity to ensure development remains consistent with approved requirements.
