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Planning panel approves MDR plan amendment and RN‑3 rezoning for Boyd's Bridge Pike site, retains hillside protection
Summary
The Knoxville/Knox County Planning Commission approved a medium‑density residential plan amendment and RN‑3 rezoning for a 13.09‑acre parcel on Boyd's Bridge Pike, while keeping the property's Hillside Protection Overlay in place.
The Knoxville/Knox County Planning Commission on June 12 approved a plan amendment to Medium Density Residential (MDR) and rezoned a 13.09‑acre tract on the north side of Boyd's Bridge Pike to RN‑3, while retaining the property’s Hillside Protection Overlay.
The decisions came after the applicant, Reginald Bell, told the commission the change was intended “to meet a need for the missing middle in that area” and to prompt investment in a neighborhood he said has suffered disinvestment. Staff had recommended denying the MDR amendment, saying the proposal did not meet criteria for a plan amendment, but commissioners voted to approve both the plan amendment and the RN‑3 rezoning.
Commission discussion emphasized proximity to city services, road capacity and the potential for additional housing. Commissioner Higgins noted staff’s finding that the area had “remained as it is, for several decades,” but said increased dwelling units could be beneficial. Commissioner Overton argued the site is “prime for increased density,” noting the area’s proximity to commercial nodes and schools and moved to approve the plan amendment and rezoning. The motions passed; commissioners specified that the Hillside Protection Overlay would be retained on the property.
The commission’s approvals apply to the planning recommendation (MDR) and to rezoning to the RN‑3 district. No formal vote tally by individual member names was recorded in the public transcript; multiple commissioners voiced support and the chair declared the motions carried. The commission noted that final actions on plan amendments or rezonings may require further action by the Knox County Commission or city council as applicable and that hillside protections remain in effect.
The applicant spoke directly at the hearing; no organized opposition spoke during the item. Next steps for the applicant include any required county or city hearings and compliance with the retained Hillside Protection Overlay and applicable subdivision requirements.
