Commissioners approve Cambridge Square PUD amendment adding 26 townhomes amid traffic and sewer concerns

Hamilton County commissioners voted to approve Resolution 2 25-45, a special-exceptions permit amending the Cambridge Square planned-unit development to add 26 townhouse units.

Brian Schultz, RPA, the county planner on the item, said the amendment is tied to a recent rezoning and that "it's adding 26 townhome units to that Cambridge Square PUD." He told commissioners the parcel sits between existing commercial and residential areas and does not directly abut Georgetown Road.

Commissioner Shipley and several residents raised concerns about traffic and sewer capacity. "Until we can get Georgetown Road and Lee Highway fixed ... I think we need to be very careful what we agree to," Commissioner Shipley said, announcing he would not support the amendment for his district. Resident Terry Yoder also urged commissioners to oppose more development near Lee Highway and Ooltewah-Georgetown Road, saying the area is "packed" and expressing worry about sewage costs.

Commissioner Highlander asked whether sewer commitments were available; staff and the applicant said the developer must obtain sewer commitments from the water authority and that development cannot proceed without sewer. County planner Brian Schultz said if sewer is unavailable, the parcel could not be built out.

Commissioner Sharp argued higher-density, zero-lot-line developments can reduce per-household road and sewer maintenance costs. "When zero-lot line developments happen, this level of density, it reduces the burden on ratepayers for sewage," Sharp said.

After public comment and debate, the commission approved the special-exceptions permit by roll call; the meeting record shows several commissioners voted against the item while a majority supported it.

Votes: Resolution 2 25-45 approved; roll-call recorded with recorded "no" votes by some commissioners.