Planning commission approves rezoning at Roy Pitt Road despite resident traffic and flooding concerns

SPRINGFIELD, Tenn. — The Springfield Municipal Regional Planning Commission voted May 1 to rezone about 3.38 acres at Roy Pitt Road and Hillside Drive from RS-20 to RS-15.

Staff recommended the change, saying the rezoning would support the city’s comprehensive plan by promoting housing diversity and efficient land use and that the parcel fronts Roy Pitt Road between Hillside Drive and Timberlake Drive. Staff also told the commission that a review of FEMA flood maps shows the property is not in the floodplain.

The applicant’s representative said the request would allow the construction of two houses and modest reductions in setback requirements. “Just two houses,” the applicant said at the microphone, and described requested front- and side-yard setback reductions to accommodate buildable areas near overhead power lines.

Resident Mike Ramsey spoke during public comment, citing 15 years of living near the site and raising traffic, flooding and safety concerns. “Traffic on my part is the biggest thing,” Ramsey said, adding that semi trucks use the road as a bypass, mailboxes have been struck and vehicles have entered yards. He also said recent rains have caused deep backyard flooding in the valley behind his property.

Commission staff reiterated that no significant traffic or service concerns were identified in their review. After discussion, commissioners moved to approve the rezoning; the motion passed without recorded opposition.

The record shows staff supported approval and the applicant confirmed plans for two homes; the commission’s approval changes the zoning classification but does not itself show final house plans or building permits. Recording or construction will follow standard permitting and any applicable plan or variance reviews.

Representatives from city staff and the applicant were available to answer follow-up questions after the vote.