Residents of Concord Push Back Against Gas Station Development
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – A proposed gas station and restaurant development in the community of Concord has become a contentious issue as local residents express their concerns over the project. Neighbors are rallying to preserve the character of their community amid rising development pressures in Knox County.
Development Plans
The proposal involves a 7,700-square-foot gas station called EZ Stop, accompanied by a restaurant and a drive-through service. This project was recently approved for rezoning in an area that has been marked for neighborhood commercial use. Local residents, however, feel that the size of the development exceeds what is appropriate for the neighborhood.
“The zoning code indicates that businesses in a neighborhood setting should generally be smaller, with a recommended size limit of 5,000 square feet or less,” explained Taylor Harris, president of the Old Concord Residents Association. The proposed gas station exceeds these guidelines, further fueling residents’ concerns regarding the potential negative impacts on their community.
Street Safety and Traffic Concerns
Residents worry that the gas station will bring increased noise and traffic to an area that has traditionally been a peaceful neighborhood. The streets of Concord, often frequented by families walking and children riding bikes, could face disruptions from new vehicles entering and leaving the gas station.
“People are concerned about going to see the cemetery and visiting loved ones there and hearing a drive-thru order,” said resident Belinda Brown, who emphasized the importance of keeping the neighborhood’s character intact. The proposed gas station will be located near an historic cemetery, prompting worries about potential disturbances to those who wish to pay their respects.
Community Response
Not only are residents vocal about their opposition to the development, but they are also taking action. The Old Concord Residents Association is organizing their appeal to the Board of Zoning Appeals next month. “We’re at a point where we’re having to go before the Board of Zoning Appeals and just try to get that overturned,” said Harris. They aim to advocate for something more suitable that aligns with the community’s needs.
To rally support against the project, residents have created a petition and a GoFundMe page to help cover legal fees associated with their efforts to challenge the development.
Preserving Local Character
Residents like Brown feel that the identity of Knoxville is at stake as more commercial projects are approved. “Knoxville is becoming so overdeveloped and we’re losing our little sense of what makes Knoxville unique,” she expressed, hoping to keep the charm of their neighborhood alive amidst growing development pressures.
The group argues that they are not against development per se, but rather they want to ensure any new projects are appropriately scaled and integrated into the neighborhood. They emphasize the importance of listening to local voices in discussions about future developments that could significantly alter their way of life.
Next Steps for Residents
As the community prepares to make their case next month, they are hopeful that their concerns will be heard and that the Board of Zoning Appeals will consider the impacts of the development on their neighborhood. The fight to maintain the character of Concord continues as the residents come together to advocate for their shared interests and priorities.
