A proposed development in West Knoxville may restore a historic property, but some neighbors are concerned about the project’s impact on their own homes.
A trio of developers has plans for retail shops, a senior living center and a 10-building apartment complex on a 105-acre tract at 9320 Kingston Pike.
At Thursday’s meeting, Todd Olson, president of the Cedar Bluff Area Residents Association, told developer Raymond Higgins that neighbors can’t get behind the project because they don’t know exactly what the developer has planned.
Higgins, of Andrews Properties in Atlanta, said he’s brought in an experienced team and would be happy to provide references to vouch for his character. “You’ve been taken advantage of by some other developers,” he said.
Andrews plans to buy the 105-acre tract, pending a rezoning, and develop 10 apartment buildings in the back. The company would sell 40 acres fronting Kingston Pike to Isakson-Barnhart, another Georgia firm, which plans to build a retail center. Frank Guess, of Isakson, promised neighbors Friday night that the Walker-Sherrill House, which was built in 1849 and is located on the property, will be preserved.
A third developer, Nebraska-based Cameron General Contractors, will buy 10 acres for a three-story senior apartment building.
The developers sought to convey their concern for the issues raised by neighbors. Higgins said the variety of uses in the development should help mitigate traffic problems and said he wants to provide the biggest possible setbacks for neighbors.
By Josh Flory – Knoxville News Sentinel
