Commission approves preliminary plat for 11‑lot Claude Simmons subdivision, allows crossing of control strip

The Johnson City Regional Planning Commission on March 10 approved a preliminary plat for an 11‑lot subdivision at 512 Claude Simmons Road and authorized the applicant to cross the control strip at Strawberry Fields Drive to permit access to lots 8–11. Planning staff said the lots are proposed as R2 (15,000 square‑foot) lots and that the back seven lots exceed five acres, meeting R2 regulations.

Planning staff (presented by Miss Putney) summarized the layout and recommended approval of the preliminary plat with the crossing allowed; staff also reiterated that a fire hydrant will be required between lots two and three along Claude Simmons prior to any building construction. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about which lots access Claude Simmons, Moss Creek Drive and the Strawberry Fields cul‑de‑sac, and confirmed that the previously deferred five‑lot final plat was incorporated into this amended item.

A commissioner moved to recommend approval allowing the applicant to cross the control strip; the motion was seconded and the roll call recorded unanimous approval. The planning commission’s action authorizes preliminary plat approval and the control‑strip crossing; final plat approval and building permits remain contingent on infrastructure work, hydrant installation and other conditions.

Next steps: The applicant must satisfy infrastructure requirements, including the required fire hydrant installation, and submit final‑plat materials for staff and TAC review prior to issuance of any building permits.