News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Baxter Planning Commission approved the preliminary plat for some 80 townhomes to be constructed off of Highway 56 behind Dale Mires Lane.
Building and Codes Inspector Bob Lane said the area was originally zoned for commercial, but decided to rezone to incorporate more high-density residential opportunities.
“The infrastructure was already in, the road was already built, and the water and sewer is in,” Lane said. “So this will be a very fast deal. I’m sure construction will take place in the very near future.”
Lane said he estimates construction could begin as soon as next week. The recent rapid growth in Baxter has drawn concern from the city’s engineer consultant who said careful planning is needed to make sure the city doesn’t outgrow its utilities. Lane said because this area was already planned to accommodate commercial development, residential development will not negatively impact water and sewer.
Lane said they are going to explore asking construction crews to create some kind of barrier that would separate the residential development from Highway 56.
