Clarksville City Council denies multiple zoning changes amid traffic and flooding concerns

The City Council of Clarksville, TN, convened on April 3, 2025, to discuss several zoning ordinance amendments, with significant attention on the proposed changes for properties along Tylertown Road and Sladen Circle.

The meeting began with a request to rezone a property from C4 to C2, aimed at allowing mixed-use development that includes retail and multifamily residential units. The applicant emphasized that this change would reduce the intensity of use compared to the current C4 designation, which could permit more disruptive commercial activities. However, the Regional Planning Commission (RPC) opposed the change, advocating for the retention of the C4 designation to support higher-density commercial development. Council members expressed concerns about traffic implications and compatibility with nearby residential areas, particularly regarding the potential for increased traffic and noise.

Councilman Shekinah raised questions about the maximum number of apartments that could be developed under the C2 zoning, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the project's scale. The applicant noted that while the RPC estimated around 300 units, the engineering process had not yet been completed to provide definitive numbers. Concerns were also voiced about existing drainage issues in the area, with several council members expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of proposed solutions, such as an injection well for stormwater management.

The council then moved to discuss a separate zoning request for a property on West Concord Drive, seeking to change from R2 to R4 to allow for multifamily residential development. This proposal faced strong opposition from local residents, who cited flooding concerns and the potential for increased traffic in an area already struggling with drainage issues. Council members echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the community's existing infrastructure and the potential impact on local safety.

In a subsequent discussion regarding a request to rezone a property on Tiny Town Road from R1A to C2, council members debated the merits of commercial versus residential development. While some supported the idea of commercial growth to enhance local accessibility, others were wary of the implications for traffic and neighborhood character. The RPC had recommended disapproval of this change, citing inconsistencies with the comprehensive plan.

The meeting concluded with several zoning requests failing to pass, reflecting the council's cautious approach to development amid ongoing concerns about infrastructure and community impact. The council's decisions underscore the complexities of balancing growth with the needs and safety of existing residents in Clarksville.