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Commission approves First Baptist Church PND to add about 205 parking spaces; neighbors raise concerns about home loss and lighting
Summary
The commission recommended rezoning approximately 3.88 acres to a Planned Institutional District (PND) for First Baptist Church Murfreesboro to create an expanded parking area of roughly 205 spaces; supporters cited safety and traffic relief while opponents said the plan would remove homes and harm neighborhood character.
The Murfreesboro Planning Commission on Jan. 8 recommended approval of a rezoning that would create a Planned Institutional District (PND) for First Baptist Church Murfreesboro, adding roughly 205 parking spaces across approximately 3.88 acres along South Bilborough Avenue and East Castle Street.
Planning staff said the PND is a typical zoning tool for institutional uses such as churches and schools and explained the application combines multiple lots under one district. Staff noted the applicant requested exceptions including counting certain dining/amenity areas as formal open space and buffer adjustments; staff recommended several perimeter buffers and a maximum 16‑foot pole lighting height to limit light trespass because the development is adjacent to residences.
Applicant representatives said the church has longstanding ties to the neighborhood and needs off‑street parking to address heavy Sunday traffic and safety concerns; the proposed plan includes a walking path for community use and lighting that staff said will be dark‑sky compliant and shielded. Dozens of speakers were present: several residents urged denial because the plan would remove houses, reduce housing stock and change neighborhood character; many church members and users said the parking is necessary for safety, for emergency access and to support the church's community ministries. Public speakers included Walter (Warren) Russell and other church members describing large congregations and safety issues; opponents warned of loss of homes and suggested alternatives.
Commissioners voted to recommend approval subject to staff comments, including the buffer and lighting measures. The roll call vote was: Miss Abelwater — yes; Mr. Carroll — yes; Mr. Harris — yes; Vice Chair Halliburton — yes; Mr. Prince — yes; Mr. Wright — yes; Chair Jones — yes. The item will move to city council for final action; staff and the applicant will refine pattern book details such as fence height, sidewalk connections and landscape buffers before council consideration.
