Commission approves rezoning of Creekmore parcel to B-4 to support Johnson City Toyota parking

The Planning Commission voted to recommend rezoning a 5.72-acre portion of a parcel along Bristol Highway and Creekmore Drive from R-4 (medium-density residential) to B-4 (planned arterial business) to accommodate a future parking area for Johnson City Toyota.

Planner Bryce McNamer told the commission the requested area does not currently have road frontage but would acquire frontage when conveyed to the dealership. The area contains an unnamed stream that flows into a stormwater pond; utilities are available on adjacent roads but not directly on the subject acreage. Staff noted that, because the proposed parking lot would be for the dealership’s use only and not open to the general public, a traffic study is not required. McNamer said a wetlands delineation and detailed stormwater and drainage plans will be required as part of the site-plan and subdivision review when the parcel is replated.

The property owner’s representative, attorney Marcy Walker of Hunter Smith & Davis, told the commission the purchaser wants the property rezoned before completing the purchase so they will know whether the zoning is allowable. Walker said the buyer’s current plan is to use the parcel for car storage and that they understand they must return with engineered site plans addressing drainage and wetlands prior to construction.

A nearby resident (owner of an adjacent single-family house) submitted written comments raising concerns about stormwater drainage, an existing water meter location and potential noise from parked vehicles. Staff recommended approval to reduce split-zoning conditions and because the B-4 district already fronts adjacent roads.

After a brief discussion the commission approved the rezoning on a roll call vote; the approval is a recommendation to the City Commission. Staff said the project will return for subdivision, wetlands delineation and site-plan review before any construction occurs.