News Summary
Residents of Ooltewah are expressing growing concerns regarding two proposed subdivision projects, led by developer Mike Price. Key issues include potential overcrowding in local schools and increased traffic on already congested roads. The Planning Commission has deferred action on the project, taking residents’ worries into consideration as they await the upcoming review of Plan Hamilton, aimed at guiding future developments in the community.
Ooltewah Residents Continue to Voice Concerns Over Proposed Subdivision Projects
In the charming town of Ooltewah, the local Planning Commission recently found itself facing a *hot-button issue* amid growing community concerns regarding two proposed subdivision projects. The proposed site at 6616 Snow Hill Road had its action deferred, leaving many residents awaiting answers to their pressing questions.
Proposed Subdivision Catches Community’s Attention
The development plan, brought forth by developer Mike Price, aimed to reduce the number of single-family home lots from 122 to 112 on a *sprawling 37.4-acre property* owned by Kenneth and Deborah Scarbrough. These long-time residents, now in their mid-70s, are looking to sell their land and retire comfortably.
In an effort to address community concerns, approximately 25% of the property would be designated as *open space*, and plans for a clubhouse, as well as a pool, were also included in the proposal. However, despite these amenities, residents expressed mixed feelings, particularly regarding the impact of the newcomers on local schools and traffic.
Traffic and School Overcrowding: Key Concerns
Residents are particularly worried about the current state of local schools, with many fearing overcrowding as new families move into the area. A local resident pointed out that over 1,000 homes have been approved but not yet constructed, a number that surpasses the existing neighborhood’s population. Although Price attempted to *quell these fears* by asserting that recent years have shown stable county school enrollment, skepticism remains among the townspeople.
Traffic is another significant issue on everyone’s minds, especially because of *Snow Hill Road’s* notorious congestion. An additional single entryway for the proposed subdivision has raised alarms about safety, with one resident referring to the current situation as “insanely congested.” Concerns about how additional homes would affect this already *strained road* have not gone unnoticed by the Planning Commission.
Planning Commission Deliberates on Development Decisions
During the meeting, Planning Commissioners decided to recommend denial of a Manufacturing (M-2) zoning at Mountain View Road, with a vote leading to a 60-day deferral for the ongoing projects in Ooltewah. Commissioners Steve Highlander and Jeff Eversole both voiced their concerns regarding the potential negative impact of these developments. They stressed the importance of aligning decisions with the upcoming *Plan Hamilton*, which is expected to offer a roadmap for future growth in the area. This plan is set for review by the Planning Commission in May, followed by the County Commission in June.
Support and Opposition in the Community
Another aspect of the meeting involved discussions about M-2 zoning for properties owned by John Payne near I-75. While some engineers supported this zoning, citing that industrial uses would incur less traffic than residential developments, residents like Karen Eaves reported widespread opposition to the projects. In fact, a petition against the proposal gathered 481 signatures, underscoring the community’s strong dissatisfaction.
Commissioner Jeff Eversole remarked that Proffitt Road has long been recognized as a boundary between commercial and residential dynamics, emphasizing the need to maintain order in Ooltewah’s growth and development. Commissioner Highlander referred to Mountain View Road as a “traffic quagmire,” expressing concerns over the potential influx of industrial vehicles exacerbating existing traffic issues.
In Conclusion
As Ooltewah pauses to reevaluate these subdivision projects, residents remain vocal in their concerns over potential overcrowding, traffic, and other community impacts. The next steps hinge on the forthcoming review of Plan Hamilton, leaving Ooltewah’s future direction in a delicate balance. Its residents are hopeful that their voices will continue to matter in decisions affecting their beloved community.
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Proposed Housing in North Hamilton County Rejection
- News Channel 9: Ooltewah Residents Share Concern Before Crucial Vote
- Chattanoogan: Planning Commission Recommends Approval
- WDEF: Ooltewah Development Approved Amid Opposition
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Development
