Concerns Rise Over Proposed Housing Development in Knoxville’s South Knox County

Concerns Rise Over Proposed Development in Knoxville’s South Knox County

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Residents in South Knox County are raising their voices against a new development that could change the landscape of their peaceful neighborhood forever. The proposed housing development aims to transform a 158-acre piece of land, previously used as a dynamite storage facility, into a residential area complete with 400 new homes.

The developer behind this ambitious project, D.R. Horton, is seeking to rezone this property located near Tipton Station Road. However, many local residents, including Leroy and Judy Goddard, are worried about the implications this could have on their tranquil environment.

A Community on Edge

The Goddards have always cherished the quiet, tree-lined streets surrounding their home. But now, they feel as though that peaceful existence is under threat. “I just hate it. Too many houses, too many people,” Judy expressed, emphasizing her desire to maintain the rural essence of their community. Leroy further elaborated on their concerns, saying, “400 houses, say 800 cars running in and through there. It’s just going to be crazy compared to what it is like now.”

The proposed development site is not just any ordinary piece of land; it was once the property of the Atlas Powder Company. This facility stored dynamite and black powder from the mid-1950s until the 1970s and was a significant site due to its past activities. Neighbors like Victoria Kay are worried not only about the number of homes but also about the potential environmental threats posed by the contaminants that could still linger in the soil.

Environmental Concerns at the Forefront

Kay pointed out the grave concerns regarding the TNT contaminants that could be present on the site. “What it could do to the people living here, who would be residing here,” she stated. Additionally, the property is located next to Stock Creek, an area that had previously been restored from toxic conditions only to face potential new threats.

Kay expressed her fears about the impact of the explosives being stored at this location. “There are three streams running on this property. It all runs into the Stock Creek watershed,” she explained. The possibility of contamination affecting local water sources is a nightmare scenario for many residents in the area.

State Intervention

Due to these serious concerns, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has stepped in, requesting further environmental data from the developer. They want to ensure that any contamination from the past activities at the former Atlas Powder Company site is thoroughly checked and remedied before any residential use is permitted. In a letter to D.R. Horton, TDEC noted that “due to past activities conducted at the former Atlas Powder Company site, TDEC believes contamination may be present that would necessitate remedial activities prior to residential use.”

Interestingly, D.R. Horton assured the community of their compliance with environmental standards. A representative stated, “We hold ourselves to the utmost standards, making sure our sites are up to EPA standards, along with TDEC’s.” They also mentioned that they have shared the summary report of environmental due diligence with TDEC.

The Road Ahead

The upcoming rezoning hearing is set for November 14, where the Knox County Planning Commission will discuss the potential impacts of this development. As concerns about environmental safety and the high density of housing loom large, community members are anxious to see how this meeting will unfold and what decisions will ultimately affect their homes and lifestyle.

While developers often promise advancements and growth, the apprehension of residents calls into question the balance between progress and preservation. It is clear that the community is ready to stand their ground to safeguard their homes, health, and way of life.