Missionary Ridge Residents Oppose Doolittle Farms Development

News Summary

Residents of Missionary Ridge in Chattanooga are voicing strong opposition to the proposed Doolittle Farms development project, which seeks to transform a wooded area into over 1,700 housing units. Concerns about increased density, traffic congestion, and potential negative impacts on community safety have galvanized locals to organize and advocate for their neighborhood’s well-being ahead of the crucial rezoning hearing on March 10.

Missionary Ridge Residents Push Back Against Doolittle Farms Development

In the picturesque city of Chattanooga, excitement and apprehension are mixing in the air as residents gear up for a crucial decision about a proposed development that some believe could change the face of the neighborhood. The Doolittle Farms project, set for a rezoning hearing on March 10, aims to transform a forested hill between Tunnel Boulevard and South Chickamauga Creek into a bustling community with over 1,700 housing units.

What’s On The Table?

The ambitious plans include a mix of apartment buildings, townhomes, and even some commercial spaces. While the intention behind this large-scale project is to address housing shortages and provide options for families, many residents are voicing strong concerns regarding the density and potential impact on their tranquil community.

Residents Voice Concerns

As the community gears up for the upcoming hearing, local residents are starting to come together in opposition. They argue that the development’s density is simply too high for the area. Many neighbors are particularly worried about the increase in traffic congestion that could stem from families moving into more than 1,800 units. One resident highlighted the potential risks associated with bringing in so many new households, particularly with children who might be navigating the streets.

Longtime residents feel that the proposed changes are happening too quickly and won’t reflect the needs of the community. They fear that the influx of new families could lead to overcrowding and put a strain on local infrastructure, products, and services that currently support their neighborhood.

Coming Together

Recognizing the magnitude of the situation, residents organized a meeting focused on fighting the rezoning request. Their primary concerns involve increased traffic, safety for children, and overall community well-being. Many are asking for more time and consideration, hoping to balance development with the preservation of their beloved lifestyle.

The Developer’s Response

In response to the mounting concerns, the project developer, Michael Kenner, insists he is listening. He claims to have made adjustments based on community feedback, proposing features that could benefit the area, such as offsite sidewalks, enhancements to Tunnel Boulevard, and even upgrades to local community centers. Kenner believes that the Doolittle Farms project will not only provide much-needed housing but also stimulate the economy and create job opportunities for the residents.

Interestingly, the developer withdrew his initial rezoning application in December to engage in discussions with local residents. His desire to create a productive dialogue seems commendable, but skepticism remains among many neighbors who worry whether the revisions will be enough to appease their concerns.

The Decision Ahead

As the rezoning hearing approaches, the atmosphere in Missionary Ridge is charged. The residents who have lived there for years are anxiously awaiting a decision that could drastically change their way of life. While the developer touts the benefits of the Doolittle Farms project, many locals continue to hope for a balanced outcome that considers both the necessity for housing and the preservation of their cherished community space.

City officials will have the final say regarding the rezoning request, and the coming days will be crucial for the future of Missionary Ridge. Will they lean into development or prioritize the existing community’s values? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the voices of Missionary Ridge residents will be heard loud and clear.

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Additional Resources

• WDEF: Residents Fight Missionary Ridge Development
• Times Free Press: Neighbors Oppose Large Mixed-Use Proposal Off
• Times Free Press: Solving Chattanooga’s Housing Shortage
• Wikipedia: Urban Development
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Suburbanization