Planning Commission recommends approval of Schumaker recreational facility with conditions

The Smyth County Planning Commission on Feb. 25 recommended that the Board of Supervisors approve a special-use permit for a recreational facility proposed by Lawrence Scott Schumaker for property at 760 Walker’s Creek Road in Marion.

Schumaker told the joint public hearing that his distillery has outgrown its current location and he plans to move operations to a larger site and develop tourism attractions, including seven zip lines (the longest about 1,500 feet), rope-course team-building features, parking at the mountain base and potential shuttle service; he estimated the operation could create about 10–15 jobs and said he is consulting engineers on final design. He said guides would supervise zip-line users at all times and that he hopes to partner with Hungry Mother State Park on trail connections.

Neighbors raised safety and trespass concerns. Adjoining owner Les Whitt asked that a fence be installed to reduce trespass and liability risks; Isaac Freeman of Sali Corporation said his concerns were resolved before the hearing. After discussion on setbacks, fencing and hours, Commissioner Joel Pugh moved to recommend approval with restrictions: daytime operations only except for up to six night events per year, and construction of a suitable fence between the shared property line to be approved by the Whitt family. Commissioner David Spence seconded the motion and the recommendation passed unanimously, 7–0.

The Planning Commission’s recommendation goes to the Board of Supervisors for final action.